Name: Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-485065H18M34S
Total time: PT-485065H18M34S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup milk (warmed to 110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas); 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed and at room temperature); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg (room temperature); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature); ¾ cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 medium bananas (sliced thinly); 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

There’s something undeniably comforting about warm, gooey cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. But imagine combining that comforting sweetness with the cozy flavor of banana bread. That’s exactly what these Banana Cinnamon Rolls deliver a soft, banana-infused dough rolled up with a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a dreamy cream cheese icing. They’re everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls, elevated with the natural sweetness and flavor of bananas.

This recipe is ideal for special mornings when you want something indulgent, whether it’s for a holiday brunch, a weekend family breakfast, or simply to treat yourself. The addition of fresh bananas in both the dough and filling takes these cinnamon rolls to the next level. Plus, the cream cheese icing ties everything together, adding a velvety richness that’s hard to resist.

I first made these Banana Cinnamon Rolls as a way to use up some overripe bananas sitting on my counter. They turned out so well that they’ve become a favorite breakfast treat in my household. The aroma of cinnamon, bananas, and freshly baked bread filling the kitchen is pure magic. Trust me, one bite of these rolls and you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love These Banana Cinnamon Rolls

There are so many reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Incredible Flavor: The banana adds a natural sweetness to the dough, which pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar filling. The creamy icing on top is the perfect finishing touch.
Soft, Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the mashed bananas and a perfectly proofed dough, these rolls come out soft and pillowy every time.
Easy to Customize: You can add nuts, swap the icing, or even experiment with different fillings to make these rolls your own.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a brunch gathering or a cozy breakfast with family, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at the table.

If you’ve been looking for a new twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, this recipe is the answer. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with flavor.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour 20 minutes rising time)
Cook Time: 28-33 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are made with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

The Dough:

¾ cup milk (warmed to 110°F) – Activates the yeast and keeps the dough soft.
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – Gives the dough its rise.
1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas) – Adds natural sweetness and flavor to the dough.
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the dough tender.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed and at room temperature) – Adds richness.
¼ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough just enough.
1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
1 large egg (room temperature) – Helps bind the dough and adds moisture.

The Cinnamon Filling:

6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature) – Makes the filling rich and spreadable.
¾ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The star spice of the filling.
2 medium bananas (sliced thinly) – Adds a fresh, fruity layer to the filling.

The Cream Cheese Icing:

4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature) – The base of the icing, providing tanginess and creaminess.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature) – Adds richness to the icing.
1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the icing without being too heavy.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. Warm the milk to about 110°F—warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk, stir gently, and let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to help the dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter, then use your hands or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step helps distribute the butter evenly throughout the dough.

Next, add the foamy yeast mixture, mashed bananas, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead it for about 5 minutes using a dough hook or by hand on a floured surface. The dough should be soft, smooth, and slightly sticky. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Cinnamon Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, then mix until fully combined. This mixture will be spread over the rolled-out dough to create the signature cinnamon swirl.

3. Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, ensuring you reach the edges. Lay the thinly sliced bananas on top of the filling, creating a single layer.

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between them for expansion. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F.

4. Bake the Rolls

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 28-33 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on top and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing as they bake!

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls are baking, make the icing. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix until the icing is light and fluffy.

Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before spreading the icing generously over the top. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the icing, making it even more delicious.

Tips for Success

Check Your Yeast: If the yeast doesn’t foam during the activation step, it’s either expired or the milk was too hot. Start over with fresh yeast and properly warmed milk.
Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading the rolls with too much filling or bananas, as this can make them difficult to roll and bake evenly.
Allow the Dough to Rise: Patience is key when working with yeast dough. Letting the dough rise fully ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
Spread Icing on Warm Rolls: The warmth of the rolls helps the icing spread more easily and creates that irresistible gooey texture.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to get creative:

Nutty Banana Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch.
Peanut Butter Drizzle: Swap the cream cheese icing for a drizzle of melted peanut butter mixed with powdered sugar and milk.
Chocolate Banana Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the filling for a decadent twist.
Healthier Option: Use whole wheat flour for the dough and replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are delicious on their own, but you can also pair them with other breakfast favorites. Serve them alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or even a hot cup of coffee or tea for a complete morning spread. They’re also perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings when you want something extra special.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes. For longer storage, freeze the un-iced rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before adding the icing.

Final Thoughts

These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are everything you could want in a breakfast treat: soft, gooey, sweet, and bursting with flavor. The combination of banana-infused dough, cinnamon-sugar filling, and creamy icing makes them a standout addition to any morning or brunch table. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you love the combination of banana bread and cinnamon rolls, this recipe is sure to impress.

I can’t wait to hear how your rolls turn out! Did you stick to the recipe or try a fun variation? Share your creations and tag me online—I’d love to see your banana-cinnamon masterpieces!