Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

You know that smell in the kitchen when ripe bananas meet warm cinnamon? That magical, comforting aroma that makes everyone suddenly migrate toward the oven? That’s exactly what inspired these banana bread cinnamon rolls Recipe.

One morning, I had two overripe bananas sitting on the counter, staring me down. Banana bread felt too predictable, but I also craved that gooey, pull-apart softness of cinnamon rolls. So, why not merge the two? I’m telling you, these rolls are like if your favorite banana bread and a warm cinnamon roll had the coziest baby. Sultan had three before I could even finish my tea!

Where This Recipe Comes From

This recipe for cinnamon rolls with banana bread is somewhat of a twist on the classic midwestern sweet rolls my mom made. Rather than going the route of the typical sweet dough, I wanted to play up the banana bread richness and add a touch of nutty vanilla for good measure. The flavor is nostalgic and fun because it retains that basic sense of home but introduces you to something new.

Why I Love This Recipe So Much

It’s fluffy, fluffy, and sweet with ripe bananas. The gooey cinnamon swirl is cozy and the cream cheese glaze? Oh man, that’s the icing on the cake! The best part? It’s much simpler than traditional cinnamon rolls. 

Whenever I make these for brunch or a potluck, people go crazy. And they always ask for the easy cinnamon roll banana bread recipe. Now you have.

What Makes These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Special

Also, if you haven’t already realized, the best part of this roll dough is that it does not take any of those intense kneading or long rise times! You can also do it without a stand mixer, and you don’t need to use fancy flour blends. I find the banana creates an extra-moist and naturally tender dough.

Also, these rolls reheat well—not that the rolls are going to last long anyway! After reheating, they are fluffy and soft again. It will be great for easy meal-prepping sweet breakfast or snack through the week!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
  
• Rolling pin
  
• 9-inch round or square baking dish
  
• Rubber spatula
  
• Knife or dough cutter
  
• Whisk
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  

Secret Tips to Make It Perfect

• Use super ripe bananas-like, soft with brown spots. The more ripe, the better the flavor and sweetness.
  
• Warm the milk slightly before adding it to the dough. Not hot-just warm to the touch. This helps activate the yeast faster.
  
• Let the rolls rest for at least 20 minutes after rolling and cutting. It gives them a little lift and better structure.
  
• Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple extract to the filling for something extra.
  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overfill the rolls – Too much filling can cause them to unravel or bake unevenly.
  
• Avoid overbaking – These should be soft and slightly gooey in the center. Check them at the 20-minute mark.
  
• Skipping the rest time – Even without a full proof, the rolls need that 20-minute rest before baking.
  

Ingredient Swaps & Customizations

• No cream cheese – Use Greek yogurt and powdered sugar for a tangy glaze.
  
• Want it vegan – Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg.
  
• Nut allergy – Just skip the nuts entirely or replace them with mini chocolate chips for a twist!
  

Check out my Ingredient Substitution Finder if you’re looking to swap anything in this recipe.

FAQs

Can I make these overnight?
Yes! After assembling and placing them in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp before baking.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Can I freeze these?
Totally. Freeze the baked rolls (unglazed) and just thaw + reheat before adding glaze.

Conclusion

I hope you fall in love with this banana bread cinnamon rolls recipe as much as I did. It’s such a heartwarming treat—whether you’re baking for a slow weekend morning or just need something sweet to brighten your week.

Let me know if you give it a go! And if you love banana-based treats, check out my Banana Bread Muffins Recipe too—they’re just as magical. Oh, and don’t miss my Cinnamon Swirl Brown Butter Banana Bundt Cake Recipe—it’s a showstopper that’ll impress at any brunch or gathering!