Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, I’m a chef who turns ripe bananas into cozy, crowd-pleasing desserts. I designed this recipe for a busy mom’s calendar and a professional’s appetite for comfort. The goal is simple: deliver a banana-forward cinnamon roll that tastes like a quick treat. Or a Sunday-brunch showstopper, without days of prep. You’ll smell warm cinnamon and caramelized banana as it bakes. And the cream cheese glaze brings a silky finish. That shine works on a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend. Read on to explore technique, tweaks, and tips for this banana twist.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Make This Recipe It Special
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls greet my kitchen with warmth and a promise of comfort.
I love turning ripe bananas into soft dough and glossy glaze.
This recipe is a quick treat I can pull together on busy days.
The magic is in the banana aroma and the creamy glaze.
I adore how the dough stays approachable, rolls fluffy, and cleanup feels light.
It’s a dish I love sharing with friends, family, and fellow busy cooks.
Plus, I love that the recipe scales down or up with ease.
Using pantry staples keeps it practical I can recommend to busy moms.
We all deserve desserts that feel special without extra stress, right?
A Cozy Take on Mornings
Mornings feel calmer when I bake these rolls.
Banana notes mingle with cinnamon to wake sleepy kitchens.
The warm glaze seals the deal, inviting coffee sips and smiles.
Why the everyday baker will reach for this recipe
This recipe fits a fast timetable without sacrificing flavor.
I rely on simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
The steps are clear, forgiving, and friendly to kitchen misfires.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are my warm answer to busy mornings. They blend easy prep, banana-forward flavor, and a glossy cream cheese glaze that feels special. If you’re juggling work, kids, and self-care, this recipe slides into your day with a smile. It’s forgiving, scalable, and crowd-pleasing enough to win over picky eaters. That makes it a go-to for potlucks, brunches, or a quiet weeknight treat.
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls deliver comfort in every bite
Every bite carries soft banana notes and cinnamon warmth. The creamy glaze seals the deal, making diners smile. I love how the texture stays fluffy and comforting. Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring warmth without heaviness.
Built for busy schedules and delicious results
This recipe fits hectic days like a trusted apron. Ingredients come together in minutes, while bake time stays cozy. The hands-on part is short, leaving you with warm, shareable treats. Perfect for brunch, after-school snacks, or a last-minute dessert.
Ingredients
Exact quantities are at the bottom of the article and printable for your convenience.
Core dough components
- Bananas: 2–3 ripe, mashed (about 1 cup). They keep the dough moist and add banana-forward sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup. It helps with browning and a touch of bright sweetness.
- Brown sugar: ¼ cup. Adds moisture and a deeper caramel note.
- Melted butter: ⅓ cup. Richness that keeps the rolls tender and cozy.
- Egg: 1. Helps bind the dough and lift the bake.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp. Adds warmth and depth to the banana base.
- All-purpose flour: 1½ cups. Structure for a soft, springy dough.
- Baking powder: 1 tsp. Helps the dough rise softly.
- Baking soda: 1 tsp. Reacts with banana acids for a fluffy crumb.
- Salt: ½ tsp. Balances sweetness and flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tbsp. The cozy, aroma-filled spice that defines the rolls.
Filling and glaze details
- Butter for brushing the dough: a little, melted. Helps the filling stick and keeps the roll moist.
- Cinnamon-sugar for the swirl: a light sprinkle to impart spice and sweetness in every bite.
- Cream cheese glaze: ½ cup cream cheese (softened), ¼ cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
Optional add-ins and substitutions
- Make it dairy-free: use plant-based cream cheese and milk substitutes; adjust sweetness to taste.
- Boost banana flavor: mash in one extra ripe banana into the dough for extra depth.
- Glaze tweaks: add more milk for a runnier glaze, or less for a thicker drizzle.
- Gluten-free option: use 1:1 gluten-free flour with a touch more baking powder.
- Nutty crunch: sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Wet Ingredients Prep
I start Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls by mashing bananas until silky.
I whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter.
The batter stays banana-forward and cozy.
Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I whisk flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
Salt and cinnamon join the mix for warmth.
Set this aside until ready to combine.
Step 3: Roll and Fill
I turn the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls dough onto a floured surface and roll to ¼ inch.
I brush with melted butter, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar.
I roll tightly, slice into 6–8 rolls, and place in pan.
Step 4: Bake to Golden
I preheat to 350°F and grease a small pan.
I bake 22–28 minutes until golden and cooked through.
If tops brown, I tent with foil and test with a toothpick.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
While warm, I whisk cream cheese glaze with powdered sugar and milk.
I drizzle generously over the rolls for shine.
I adjust glaze with more milk or sugar to taste.
Practical tip for avoiding overmixing
I remind you to resist overmixing.
I fold gently until just combined for tender texture.
I want Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls to stay soft.
Quick glaze consistency checks
I check glaze by spoon; it should coat evenly.
If too thick, I add a splash of milk.
If too thin, I whisk in a bit of sugar.

Tips for Success
Quick tips and tricks for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- I rely on 2–3 ripe bananas for sweetness.
- Measure flour correctly; too much makes dense dough.
- Mix until just combined to keep rolls tender.
- Preheat oven and oil the pan.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Overmixing after adding dry ingredients.
- Skimping on resting time.
- Skipping toothpick test; centers underbaked.
- Not letting rolls rest after baking.
Equipment Needed
- I keep mixing bowls: one large, one small (glass or stainless) for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
- Rolling pin: wooden or silicone; substitute with a sturdy bottle.
- Pan: a 9×9 inch baking dish or round cake pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons; whisk and spatula.
- Small saucepan for melting butter.
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray.
- Toothpick or cake tester for doneness.
Essential tools for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Large bowl for wet ingredients.
- Medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Rolling pin for dough.
- Sharp knife or bench scraper.
- Rubber spatula for folding.
- Wire rack for cooling.
Substitutes and handy gear
- Nonstick parchment or silicone mat.
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment (optional).
- Silicone spatula and heatproof tongs.
- Timer on your phone for precise bake times.
Variations
A few playful twists keep Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls exciting, especially for busy mornings or after-school treats.
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls variations
- Boost banana flavor by adding an extra ripe banana to the dough or folding in ¼ cup mashed banana into the filling.
- Double the cinnamon or dust with espresso powder for a mocha twist.
- Include a crunchy layer: scatter chopped pecans or walnuts on the filling before rolling.
- Make a caramel swirl: drizzle a ribbon of caramel sauce before rolling for a gooey center.
- Switch up the glaze: add lemon zest to the cream cheese glaze for a bright finish.
- Mini version: bake in a muffin tin for single-serving rolls, perfect for brunch.
- Seasonal spins: replace some sugar with maple syrup in the glaze; add pumpkin spice in fall.
- Make ahead: assemble rolls, refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning for lazy weekends.
Dairy-free and gluten-friendly options
- Go dairy-free: use plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and almond or oat milk in the glaze.
- Gluten-free option: sub 1 1/2 cups gluten-free 1:1 flour plus 1 extra teaspoon baking powder or adjust as needed for a softer crumb.
- Binding tips: add ½ teaspoon xanthan gum if using GF flour to help with elasticity.
- Nutrient-friendly swap: use almond flour blend for a nuttier flavor, but expect a denser texture.
- Make-ahead dairy-free glaze: whisk dairy-free cream cheese with powdered sugar and plant milk until glossy.
Serving Suggestions
Serving ideas
- Serve warm with extra glaze on the side.
- Pair with bold coffee or vanilla latte.
- Present on a rustic platter for brunch vibes.
Pairings and presentation tips
- Drizzle glaze across the plate for shine.
- Dust with cinnamon sugar and garnish with mint.
- Serve with coffee, milk, or sparkling water.
Extra Value Add-Ons
I love how Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls stretch busy mornings. Extra value helps me stay present for my family. Here are two practical ideas I rely on.
Make-ahead morning solution
I adore waking to cinnamon and banana aromas. Make-ahead magic keeps mornings calm.
Assemble the dough and fill, then chill in the pan overnight.
In the morning, preheat the oven and bake as usual. The rolls finish while I sip coffee.
For extra banana scent, you can mash in a ripe banana into the dough beforehand. This is Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls at its coziest.
- Wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil; refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, uncover, bake 22–28 minutes until golden, and glaze hot.
- Let the glaze set for a glossy finish as you plate.
Freezer-friendly prep and storage tips
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls freeze well, making ahead brunches easy.
You can freeze unbaked rolls or fully baked rolls for future use.
- Unbaked: wrap the pan tightly and freeze up to 2–3 months.
- Baked: cool completely; wrap and freeze for 1–2 months.
- To bake from frozen, add 15–20 minutes to the bake time.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, then rewarm.
- Glaze after reheating for a glossy finish.

FAQs
How many calories are in a brioche swirl?
Calories in a brioche swirl vary with size and ingredients. In my kitchen, most brioche swirls run about 250–350 kcal per roll. My Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls clock in around 400 kcal per roll, so keep portions in mind if you’re counting. Sharing or saving for a special weekend treat works well.
What’s the difference between sourdough and brioche?
Sourdough uses a natural starter and long fermentation, giving tangy flavors. Brioche is an enriched dough with eggs and butter, creating a rich, tender crumb. They’re different in texture and taste.
Is a brioche bun healthy for weight loss?
A brioche bun isn’t usually a weight-loss staple. It’s rich in butter, eggs, and sugar. If you love brioche, enjoy a small portion and balance the meal with veggies and protein.
Are brioche buns healthy for weight loss?
Are brioche buns healthy for weight loss? Not typically, if you eat them generously. Look for smaller sizes, or swap to whole-grain bread and pair with lean fillings for a more balanced plate.
Final Thoughts
The joy of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls in your kitchen
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring a cozy joy to my kitchen today.
Watching the dough puff and those banana notes swirl through cinnamon feels like a small celebration every morning.
I love how a simple bake can slow a hectic day and warm a family moment.
Encouragement to customize and share
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the kind of treat that travels with love and laughter.
I encourage you to tailor the filling, swap spices, or switch dairy without fear of failure at all.
When you share the warm rolls, you’re spreading comfort, sparking conversations, and building cozy rituals for busy days with you, friend.
Print
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls 5 Irresistible Creamy Delights
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: Fluffy, banana-forward cinnamon rolls topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze.
Ingredients
- 2–3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- For the cream cheese glaze:
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk (add more for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a small baking dish or round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, both sugars, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined into a soft dough.
- On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
- Spread a little melted butter and sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar if desired.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into 6–8 rolls. Place them in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 22–28 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- While baking, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- Yields 6–8 rolls; best served warm for gooey texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- To reach a thinner glaze, whisk in a bit more milk.
- For extra banana flavor, mash in an additional ripe banana to the dough.
- To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and milk substitutes; baking time may vary slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22–28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (approx.)
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Sugar: Approximately 22 g
- Sodium: Approximately 200 mg
- Fat: Approximately 16 g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 60 g
- Fiber: Approximately 0.5 g
- Protein: Approximately 6 g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 40 mg
Keywords: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, banana cinnamon rolls, banana rolls, cream cheese glaze, banana bread inspired rolls, easy cinnamon rolls, brunch, breakfast dessert