Dessert

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Byluca Carter January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, fluffy texture of classic cinnamon rolls with the rich flavor of banana bread. Filled with gooey cinnamon sugar and topped with a creamy icing, they make a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert.

A close-up image of a single cinnamon roll on a white plate, showing about four thick dough layers in a spiral shape with a golden-brown crust. The cinnamon roll is topped with white icing that drips slowly down the sides, adding a glossy texture. The surface of the cinnamon roll displays a soft, fluffy interior with a slightly crispy outer layer. There is a light dusting of cinnamon powder scattered on the plate around the roll. In the blurred background, parts of other cinnamon rolls and a white cup can be seen, all set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup warm milk

1/2 tsp salt
1 large egg
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)

2-3 tbsp milk (for icing)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, granulated sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Mix in flour gradually until a smooth dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, then cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
Step 4: Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread softened butter on top, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll up tightly and slice into 9 rolls.
Step 5: Place rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden.

Step 6: Whisk together powdered sugar and milk for icing. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling before rolling the dough.
Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moist texture in the dough.

If you don’t have warm milk, heat it gently until just warm to the touch—too hot will kill the yeast.
For a cream cheese icing variation, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk instead of plain icing.

Storage

Store any leftover banana bread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze the rolls wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm before serving.

How to Serve

A soft, thick cinnamon roll sits on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The cinnamon roll has one main layer, spiraled, with a warm golden brown outer section and a pale, fluffy inside showing the dough’s airy texture. A creamy, white glaze slowly drips over the top and down the sides, adding a shiny and smooth contrast to the textured dough. Light cinnamon powder is sprinkled lightly around the base of the roll on the plate. In the background, a blurred white mug and a second plate with more cinnamon rolls can be seen softly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Since instant yeast doesn’t need to be proofed, you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients and adjust the amount of liquid slightly if needed.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.