Name: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ⅓ cup milk, warm; 1 large egg; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Hey y'all! If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your favorite banana bread and classic cinnamon rolls had a delicious, gooey baby—your search is over! These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are supremely soft, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for everything from lazy weekend brunches to celebratory breakfasts. Ready to upgrade your morning routine? Let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ultimate comfort: Combines the moist tenderness of banana bread with the gooey, spiced swirl of classic cinnamon rolls.
Perfect for any occasion: Brings warmth to holiday breakfasts, brunch with friends, or a cozy weekday treat.
Great use for ripe bananas: A delicious way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
Rich, aromatic flavors: The brown sugar-cinnamon filling and creamy glaze send these over the top!
Make-ahead friendly: Prep the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
2¼ teaspoon (1 packet) active dry yeast
½ cup warmed milk (about 110°F/43°C)
⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 cup mashed overripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
1 large egg, room temperature
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
⅔ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup softened unsalted butter
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoon milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Mix in the melted butter, sugar, mashed bananas, egg, salt, and vanilla.
Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
On a floured surface, roll the risen dough into a 15x9-inch (38x23cm) rectangle.
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

Step 3: Shape and Cut Rolls

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
Slice into 12 equal pieces and arrange, cut sides up, in a greased 9x13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan.
Cover and let rolls rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.

Step 4: Bake the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 23–27 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and 1 tablespoon milk. Add more milk if needed for a smooth, spreadable consistency. Learn more about icing vs. frosting.
Spread icing generously over warm rolls.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Notes & Tips

Make sure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Don’t overheat the milk—too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for 110°F. (Check tips on proofing yeast here.)
Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before second rise.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Nutty Banana Rolls: Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans over the cinnamon sugar filling before rolling.
Chocolate Banana Cinnamon Rolls: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist.
Caramel Banana Rolls: Swap cream cheese icing for a homemade caramel drizzle.

Equipment Needed for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Large mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Stand mixer with dough hook (optional, but helpful)
Rolling pin
9x13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish
Plastic wrap or clean towel (for rising)
Sharp knife or dental floss (for slicing rolls)

Storing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, then warm before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Pair with hot coffee or a chai latte for a cozy breakfast.
Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit or Greek yogurt for a balanced brunch.
For dessert, serve warmed with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Use room temperature ingredients for easy dough mixing and better yeast activation.
Be careful not to over-bake—the key to soft, fluffy rolls is removing them from the oven as soon as they’re golden and just set. (See baking tips via Sally’s Baking Addiction.)
Let rolls cool slightly before icing for the perfect melt.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls overnight?: Yes! Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature and rise for 30 minutes before baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?: You can substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for added fiber, but the rolls may be slightly denser.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?: They should be golden brown and make a hollow sound when tapped. The center should read at least 190°F (88°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Rise Time: 90 minutes | Bake Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls