The smell of freshly baked banana bread cinnamon rolls wafting through the house is nothing short of magical. Honestly, it’s like a warm hug that wraps around you, making everything feel just a bit cozier. I remember the first time I took a bite of a soft, fluffy roll filled with sweet banana goodness and a hint of cinnamon, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. It was a moment of pure bliss! These rolls combine two beloved treats—banana bread and cinnamon rolls—into one glorious breakfast or dessert that you’ll want to make again and again.
What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up, even on a busy morning. You don’t need to be a baking expert to impress your family or friends with these delightful rolls. They’re perfect for brunch gatherings, lazy Sunday mornings, or even as a sweet surprise for a loved one. Plus, they use simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, so you can dive right into the baking fun without a last-minute grocery run!
As a keen baker who’s tested this recipe multiple times, I can assure you that each bite of these banana bread cinnamon rolls is filled with comfort and joy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s gather those ingredients and get rolling!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: These rolls come together in under an hour, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy grocery trips; you likely have everything you need already!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, holiday breakfasts, or cozy family nights.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about these rolls, making them a hit at any gathering.
- Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of banana and cinnamon with creamy frosting is next-level comfort food.
What sets this recipe apart is the unique filling—it’s not just cinnamon sugar but also uses mashed bananas, giving the rolls a moist texture and rich flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the flavors. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes after the first bite, savoring each moment. Honestly, it’s comfort food reimagined—healthier, faster, but with that same soul-soothing satisfaction. You’ll impress your guests without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to create these delightful banana bread cinnamon rolls:
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better!)
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 large egg
- For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mashed bananas (about 1 banana)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
Feel free to customize these ingredients! If you want to go gluten-free, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. And if you’re looking for dairy-free options, almond or oat milk work beautifully. I personally love using ripe bananas for the filling; they add natural sweetness and moisture, making the rolls even more delicious!
Equipment Needed
Before you start, let’s gather the necessary kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls (2 large)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rolling pin
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
You don’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe! A simple rolling pin will do the trick for flattening the dough. If you don’t have a whisk, a fork will suffice for mixing the wet ingredients. Make sure to have everything ready to go for a smooth baking experience!
Preparation Method
Ready to bake? Follow these clear steps to create your banana bread cinnamon rolls:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, mashed bananas, milk, and egg until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Knead the Dough: Lightly flour your countertop and turn the dough out onto it. Knead gently for about 1 minute until the dough is slightly smooth.
- Roll Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Aim for roughly 12×18 inches.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, mashed bananas, and softened butter until well combined. Spread this filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll It Up: Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
- Slice the Rolls: Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss (for a cleaner cut!). Place the rolls cut-side up in the greased baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The rolls should spring back when lightly pressed.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Frost the Rolls: Once the rolls are done, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting on top while they’re still warm. This will let the frosting melt slightly into the rolls—yum!
And there you have it—delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls ready to be devoured! The aroma will be irresistible, and the soft, gooey texture will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are a few cooking tips to ensure your banana bread cinnamon rolls turn out perfect every time:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough rolls.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! They’ll add more natural sweetness and moisture to your rolls.
- Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the rolls are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before and assemble the rolls in the morning. Just let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor!
These tips come from my own experience in the kitchen. Trust me, they’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve that perfect roll every time!
Variations & Adaptations
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few delicious variations to consider:
- Nutty Banana Rolls: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for extra sweetness and richness.
- Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace the vanilla extract in the frosting with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter and milk.
Feel free to get creative with these rolls! The base recipe is versatile, so you can adapt it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
For the best experience, serve these rolls warm, straight from the oven, with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting on top. They’re delightful on their own, but pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!
If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes. The flavors will continue to develop, making them just as tasty the next day!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
These banana bread cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also provide some nutritional benefits:
- Each roll contains natural sweetness from bananas, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Bananas are a great source of potassium and vitamin C, contributing to your overall health.
- Using whole grain flour can boost the fiber content, making these rolls a more nutritious option.
Keep in mind that while these rolls are a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking for healthier swaps, consider using less sugar or incorporating oats!
Conclusion
These delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are worth trying! They’re not just a recipe; they’re an experience that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them for brunch or enjoying them as a sweet snack, they’re sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to customize them to match your personal taste or dietary needs!
I hope you give this recipe a try—trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Feel free to leave a comment below if you try it out or share your own variations. Happy baking!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the banana bread cinnamon rolls?
Yes! You can freeze the rolls before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
2. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Can I make these rolls vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter and milk for a delicious vegan version.
4. How do I store leftover rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven for a warm treat!
5. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?
Yes! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for added texture and flavor. They’ll make the rolls even more indulgent!
Pin This Recipe!
Delicious Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These rolls combine two beloved treats—banana bread and cinnamon rolls—into one glorious breakfast or dessert that you’ll want to make again and again. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, they are a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mashed bananas (about 1 banana)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, mashed bananas, milk, and egg until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Lightly flour your countertop and turn the dough out onto it. Knead gently for about 1 minute until the dough is slightly smooth.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, aiming for roughly 12×18 inches.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, mashed bananas, and softened butter until well combined. Spread this filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls cut-side up in the greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The rolls should spring back when lightly pressed.
- While the rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Add milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Once the rolls are done, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the cream cheese frosting on top while they’re still warm.
Notes
Use ripe bananas for the filling to add natural sweetness and moisture. You can prepare the dough and filling the night before and assemble the rolls in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 36
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: banana bread, cinnamon rolls, cream cheese frosting, breakfast, dessert
