Fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Icing

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home, and when they are infused with the rich, natural sweetness of ripe bananas, they become an irresistible treat. These Fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Icing are perfect for a cozy morning, an indulgent brunch, or a weekend treat when you want to impress family and friends. Imagine the soft, pillowy layers of banana bread dough, swirled with cinnamon and sugar, and finished with a luscious sweet icing that melts into every nook and cranny.

This recipe was inspired by a cherished family tradition of baking on Sunday mornings. Each bite evokes memories of warmth, togetherness, and the simple joys of home-baked goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cinnamon rolls for the first time, these banana-infused delights promise a deliciously memorable experience.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

• ½ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 large ripe banana, mashed

• 1 large egg

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Sweet Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Prepare the yeast

Begin by activating your yeast, which is a crucial step for achieving the soft, fluffy texture that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible. In a small bowl, combine warm milk—around 110°F (43°C)—with granulated sugar. The warmth of the milk helps the yeast awaken, while the sugar acts as food for the yeast, kickstarting the fermentation process. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the milk and sugar mixture. Allow it to sit undisturbed for 5–10 minutes until the surface becomes foamy. This frothy layer indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work. If your mixture does not foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk too hot or too cold. Activated yeast is essential because it gives the dough its rise and airy texture, so don’t skip this step or rush it.

Make the dough

Once your yeast is bubbly, move on to preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon. These dry ingredients form the structure and flavor base of your banana bread cinnamon rolls. Add the mashed banana, which not only sweetens the dough naturally but also keeps it moist and tender. Incorporate the egg, melted butter, and the activated yeast mixture into the flour. Mix all ingredients together using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until a soft, sticky dough forms. At this stage, the dough will be slightly tacky to the touch, which is perfect. Resist the temptation to add too much extra flour, as this can make the rolls dense.

Knead the dough

Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives your rolls their characteristic soft, chewy texture. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using the heels of your hands, press and fold the dough repeatedly for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you’re using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead for about 4–5 minutes on medium speed. The dough should spring back slightly when pressed, indicating the gluten is properly developed. Proper kneading is essential for even rising and a fluffy interior.

First rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl to prevent sticking, then cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free environment for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This initial rise, also called proofing, allows the yeast to produce carbon dioxide, which makes the dough airy and soft. Avoid rushing this process; giving the dough time to fully rise is key to light, fluffy rolls.

Prepare the filling

While the dough rises, prepare the cinnamon-sugar filling. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until you achieve a smooth, spreadable mixture. This filling will melt into the layers of dough during baking, creating the classic sweet, spiced flavor that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible. Set the filling aside until your dough has finished rising.

Roll out the dough

Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release excess air. Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×18 inches. Rolling evenly ensures that all the rolls will bake at the same rate, and a uniform thickness helps the filling distribute consistently. Take your time during this step for the best results.

Spread the filling

Evenly spread the prepared cinnamon-sugar filling over the dough, leaving a small border of about half an inch along the edges. The border prevents the filling from oozing out when you roll the dough, while ensuring that each bite has a perfect swirl of sweetness.

Roll and slice

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Take care to roll evenly so that the cinnamon swirls remain consistent throughout. Using a sharp knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Dental floss is particularly helpful for clean cuts without squishing the dough. Each roll should maintain its shape, ready to rise and bake into soft, fluffy spirals.

Second rise

Place the cut rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them for expansion. Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30–45 minutes until puffy. This second rise ensures that the rolls are airy and soft, giving them a bakery-quality texture that is hard to resist.

Preheat the oven

While the rolls are undergoing their second rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking and a golden-brown finish on your cinnamon rolls.

Bake

Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning. You can lightly tent them with foil if they brown too quickly. The rolls should be set and spring back slightly when touched.

Prepare the icing

While the rolls bake, prepare the sweet icing. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency according to your preference: add more milk for a thinner glaze that drizzles over the rolls, or more powdered sugar for a thicker, spreadable icing.

Ice the rolls

Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes. Drizzle the prepared icing generously over the warm rolls, letting it seep into the layers for maximum flavor. The heat from the rolls helps the icing melt slightly, creating a gooey, irresistible finish.

Serve and enjoy

Serve the cinnamon rolls warm for the ultimate experience. The combination of banana flavor, soft dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and melting icing delivers a comforting treat that rivals your favorite bakery. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, and are sure to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including rising time)

• Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls

Notes

• Banana tip: For extra flavor, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. They are naturally sweeter and mash easily into the dough.

• Dairy-free option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with any plant-based milk.

• Make-ahead: You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day for fresh rolls.

• Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

• Extra texture: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before rolling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Icing strike the perfect balance between a classic cinnamon roll and a moist banana bread. They are soft, tender, and infused with a natural sweetness from bananas, making them a healthier twist on a traditional favorite. The rolls are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet afternoon snack with coffee or tea.

The sweet icing adds a creamy finish that melts slightly over the warm rolls, creating a delightful texture contrast with the soft dough. Plus, they fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that instantly makes any day feel special. Whether you’re baking for your family, hosting brunch with friends, or simply treating yourself, these rolls are sure to impress.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time

1. Temperature matters: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast.

2. Don’t rush the rise: Letting the dough rise properly ensures the rolls will be fluffy and soft. Patience pays off!

3. Even slices: Use dental floss instead of a knife for perfectly smooth edges when slicing your rolls.

4. Experiment with fillings: Try adding chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or even a swirl of cream cheese to the filling for variety.

5. Serve warm: Cinnamon rolls taste best when served fresh and warm, straight from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your banana cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk.

• For an indulgent breakfast, serve with fresh fruit on the side, such as strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas.

• Make a brunch platter with these rolls, mini quiches, and fresh juice for a festive gathering.

The Perfect Occasion for These Rolls

These rolls are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Bake them for a Sunday morning family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or even as a special treat for a loved one. The aroma of cinnamon and banana filling the kitchen creates an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in. Their soft, sweet layers are comforting and nostalgic, reminding us of simpler times and the joy of home-baked treats.

Fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Icing

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x

See also  The Best Guide to Butter Cake Recipe

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Description

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen, especially when combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. These Fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Sweet Icing are soft, tender, and perfectly swirled with cinnamon sugar. Ideal for a cozy morning, weekend brunch, or a sweet treat to share with family and friends, they bring the comfort of banana bread together with the indulgence of classic cinnamon rolls. Inspired by a long-standing tradition of Sunday morning baking, this recipe promises warm, bakery-quality rolls that are easy to make at home and irresistibly delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

• ½ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 large ripe banana, mashed

• 1 large egg

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Sweet Icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

• Prepare the yeast by combining warm milk and granulated sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and cinnamon. Add mashed banana, egg, melted butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for 4–5 minutes.

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

• In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.

• Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.

• Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

• Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

• Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with a towel and allow them to rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top, watching carefully to prevent over-browning.

• While baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.

• Allow rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes, then drizzle icing generously over warm rolls.

• Serve warm and enjoy the combination of banana flavor, cinnamon, and sweet icing.

Notes

• Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness and easy mashing.

• For dairy-free rolls, substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with plant-based milk.

• Rolls can be prepared up to the second rise and refrigerated overnight before baking.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before rolling.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis