Wake up to the warm, sweet aroma of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect twist on classic cinnamon rolls. Moist banana-infused dough swirls with cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a soft, tender interior that melts in your mouth. Topped with creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are a breakfast or brunch showstopper.

Whether for a weekend treat, holiday morning, or a special occasion, these rolls combine the comfort of banana bread with the indulgence of cinnamon rolls. Their golden-brown crust and gooey, sweet center make them impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana-flavored dough: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
Soft, tender rolls: Perfectly pillowy texture every time.
Creamy frosting: Smooth cream cheese topping elevates flavor.
Easy to make at home: Uses simple pantry ingredients.
Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Perfect for gifting: Ideal for brunch gatherings or holiday treats.

Ingredient Breakdown

Mashed Bananas: Add moisture, natural sweetness, and banana flavor.
Warm Milk & Yeast: Activates yeast for soft, fluffy rolls.
Butter: Adds richness to the dough and filling.
Sugar & Brown Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough; brown sugar caramelizes in the filling.
Egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.
Flour: Provides structure to the rolls.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Cinnamon: Classic spice for warmth and aroma.
Cream Cheese & Powdered Sugar: Forms a smooth, tangy-sweet frosting that complements the rolls.

Pro Tips

Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful.
Don’t over-flour: Dough should remain slightly sticky for soft rolls.
Let rolls rise fully: Ensures a light, fluffy texture.
Spread frosting while warm: It melts slightly into the rolls for extra gooeyness.
Optional: Toasted nuts or chocolate chips can be added to the filling for variety.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Flours: Substitute ½ cup of flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a heartier loaf.
Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or maple sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
Dairy alternatives: Almond or oat milk works in place of cow’s milk; vegan butter works too.
Frosting variations: Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze or caramel drizzle.
Add-ins: Mini chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans in the filling add extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm straight from the oven for maximum gooeyness.
Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for breakfast or brunch.
Cut into smaller rolls for a party platter or potluck.
Top with extra chopped nuts or drizzle with caramel sauce for a dessert twist.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Prepare the dough and allow the first rise in the fridge overnight. Roll, fill, and refrigerate; bake the next morning.
Storage: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
Freezing: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.
Reheating: Microwave slices for 20–30 seconds or bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to refresh texture.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Cinnamon rolls trace back to Northern Europe, particularly Sweden, where they are enjoyed as “kanelbulle.” Adding banana bread elements is a modern American twist, combining two beloved baked goods into one indulgent breakfast treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Do I have to use cream cheese frosting? No, a simple vanilla glaze or butter glaze works as well.
Can I make mini rolls? Yes, slicing into smaller portions reduces baking time to about 18–22 minutes.
How do I keep rolls soft? Store in an airtight container and avoid over-baking.
Can I add chocolate chips? Absolutely—sprinkle them in the filling before rolling for extra indulgence.

Emily