Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls 

Let me just say: you’ve never had cinnamon rolls quite like these. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the moist, comforting flavors of classic banana bread with the gooey, swirled magic of homemade cinnamon rolls—and the result is pure breakfast heaven. Soft, fluffy, warmly spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, they’re the kind of treat that makes mornings worth getting up for.

Before we get into the sticky, swirly goodness, thank you so much for being here! Whether you’re a banana bread fan, a cinnamon roll lover, or just a weekend baker looking for something new—I’m so glad you found this recipe. If you’d like more cozy baking recipes sent straight to your inbox, don’t forget to subscribe below!

What Are Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Think of this as the best of both breakfast worlds. You start with a soft yeasted dough (just like classic cinnamon rolls), but with mashed bananas folded right in. The filling is a cozy swirl of brown sugar, cinnamon, and even a little banana if you’re feeling bold. The result is soft, tender rolls with just a hint of banana bread flavor in every bite—like a banana bread cinnamon roll mash-up made in heaven.

Topped with a tangy cream cheese icing? Total crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Banana bread + cinnamon rolls = the dream combo
• Perfect use for overripe bananas
• Soft, fluffy, and incredibly moist
• Not too sweet—perfectly balanced with the cream cheese glaze
• Great for brunches, holiday mornings, or baking with the kids
• Make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly too!

What Do They Taste Like?

These cinnamon rolls are pillowy soft with subtle banana flavor, a gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a light tang from the cream cheese frosting. It’s like having banana bread with cinnamon roll frosting—but elevated with that pull-apart, bakery-style texture. They smell amazing, they taste even better, and I promise… they’re dangerously addictive.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Creative twist on two classic favorites
• Easy to adapt for different fillings or frostings
• Banana adds moisture naturally (no dry rolls here!)
• Impress-your-guests level deliciousness
• Works beautifully as a holiday breakfast or bake-and-freeze treat

Ingredients for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

For the dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons mashed banana (for extra gooey swirls!)
• Optional: Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch

For the cream cheese glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin, if needed)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (optional, but helpful for kneading)
• Rolling pin
• 9×13 baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean towel or plastic wrap (for rising)
• Offset spatula or spoon for spreading filling

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• Make it nutty: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling
• Use whole wheat flour: Substitute up to 1 cup for extra fiber
• Skip the cream cheese glaze: Try vanilla icing or just a dusting of powdered sugar
• Dairy-free? Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cream cheese
• Add mini chocolate chips: Because why not?

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

1. Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the dough

In a large bowl, mix together mashed bananas, sugar, egg, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Add the activated yeast mixture. Slowly stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead and rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes (or use a mixer with a dough hook) until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Roll out and fill

Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16×10 inches). Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Add optional banana mash or chopped nuts.

5. Roll and slice

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 even pieces and arrange in a greased 9×13 baking dish.

6. Final rise

Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

7. Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through.

8. Glaze and serve

While the rolls cool slightly, mix all glaze ingredients until smooth. Spread over warm rolls and serve immediately.

What to Serve with Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls shine on their own, but pair beautifully with:

• Fresh fruit (like berries or orange slices)
• Scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole for savory balance
• Hot coffee or chai latte
• Maple sausage or bacon for a salty counterpoint

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

• Use very ripe bananas for max flavor and moisture
• Make sure yeast is fresh—check the expiration date!
• Don’t over-flour the dough—it should be soft, not stiff
• Let the dough rise fully for the fluffiest rolls
• For gooier rolls, bake them slightly under (22 minutes instead of 25)

Storage Instructions

• Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Fridge: Keep covered for up to 5 days; reheat gently in the microwave
• Freezer: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before glazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead?

Yes! Prepare and slice the rolls, place in the pan, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp and rise in the morning, then bake fresh.

Can I use instant yeast?

Absolutely. Skip the activation step and mix it right into the dry ingredients.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but texture may vary slightly.

What if I don’t like cream cheese?

Swap the glaze for vanilla icing, maple glaze, or even a caramel drizzle.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to fall in love with breakfast all over again, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are waiting for you. They’re soft, sweet, full of comforting flavor, and just different enough to feel extra special. Whether you’re baking for a lazy Sunday, holiday brunch, or just because—you’ll be dreaming of these rolls long after the last bite.

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