Name: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 9 rolls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas); 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing); 2-3 tbsp milk (for icing)

Hey y’all! Looking for a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll? These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine everything you love about fluffy banana bread and gooey Cinnamon Rolls in one delectable treat. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or whenever you’re craving something sweet, these rolls are guaranteed to wow your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Moist, pillowy rolls packed with real banana flavor for that homemade touch.
Easy to make with simple pantry staples and overripe bananas.
Sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl makes every bite irresistible.
Perfect for sharing at brunches, holidays, or family gatherings.
Delicious served warm, drizzled with a creamy vanilla glaze.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Vanilla Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Dough

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm milk; let sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, mashed bananas, and salt, stirring until combined.
Gradually mix in flour until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 7-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1-1.5 hours.

Step 2: Cinnamon-Sugar Filling

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
Spread softened butter over dough, sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.

Step 3: Roll, Slice & Second Rise

Carefully roll the dough, jelly-roll style, starting from a long edge. Pinch the seam to seal.
Slice into 12 even rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cover and let rise until puffy, about 30-40 minutes.

Step 4: Bake Your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C).
Bake rolls for 22-25 minutes, until golden-brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.
Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.

Notes for Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
Let your dough rise in a slightly warm, draft-free environment for fluffiest results.
For more yeast tips, check out King Arthur Baking’s Yeast Guide.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Nutty Delight: Scatter 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before rolling up.
Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips onto the filling for a decadent twist.
Maple Glaze: Replace vanilla in the glaze with pure maple syrup for a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.

Required Equipment for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Large mixing bowl
Stand mixer (optional, for kneading)
Rolling pin
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Storage & Shelf Life

Store cooled rolls tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Serving Recommendations for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Pair with a hot cup of coffee or creamy chai tea latte for a cozy breakfast.
Serve warm with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent brunch.
Try with crunchy bacon and scrambled eggs for a savory-sweet breakfast spread.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Pro Tips

Use bread flour for slightly chewier rolls, if available (see flour comparisons).
Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the rolled dough cleanly.
Microwave bananas for 30 seconds to soften and bring out extra sweetness (banana prep tips).

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls FAQ

Can I make these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?: Yes! Prepare rolls up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp before baking.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?: Absolutely, just skip the proofing step—mix instant yeast right into the dry ingredients.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?: The tops should be golden and the center roll should feel set, not doughy, when gently pressed.

Prep Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 2.5 hours (including rises and baking)