Hello, my fellow food lovers! Are you ready to meet your new favorite treat? Imagine this: the warmth and spice of cinnamon rolls mixed with the comforting, moist goodness of banana bread. Oh yes, it’s real, and it’s about to make your kitchen smell like heaven. Trust me, once you’ve taken a bite of this cinnamon roll banana bread, you’ll be hooked! So, grab a cup of coffee, cozy up, and let’s dive into this indulgent, but surprisingly easy, recipe.
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Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re baking for a weekend breakfast, whipping up a treat for a gathering, or just indulging in a bit of comfort, this banana bread is a game-changer. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Versatile: It’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or something special to bring to a gathering, this banana bread is ready to steal the show.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. You don’t need anything fancy to make something this tasty—it’s proof that you don’t have to break the bank to create something delicious.
Quick and Easy: Don’t worry, this recipe is foolproof! It’s perfect for beginners, and the steps are so easy that even on your busiest days, you can still bake something amazing.
Customizable: Like a little twist? Add some chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans on top! You can even adjust the sweetness to your liking if you want something less indulgent.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a warm, moist banana bread, especially one with a cinnamon roll flair! Whether it’s your kids, friends, or family, this banana bread will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
This banana bread has everything you love—bananas, cinnamon, and that iconic swirl of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bananas: The base of the bread. These add moisture and sweetness, making the bread wonderfully tender.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is best for creating a soft, fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda: For a little lift.
- Salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- Cinnamon: The star of the show! Cinnamon adds that warm, comforting spice.
- Sugar: A little bit of sugar to sweeten the deal!
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness.
- Butter: Rich, melted butter to add flavor and moisture.
- Vanilla Extract: For an extra layer of flavor.
- Brown Sugar: For that delicious cinnamon roll swirl.
- Cinnamon Sugar: To make that irresistible swirl that’s just like the inside of a cinnamon roll.
(Note: The full ingredients list with measurements is available in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s bake this magic into existence! Here’s how to do it:
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that perfect golden finish.
Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. The riper, the better! The sweetness of the bananas is key to making this bread extra delicious.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, and the bread will rise just right.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the mashed bananas into the mix and stir to combine.
Mix It All Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined. You want it to be mixed, but don’t overdo it—this will keep your banana bread light and fluffy.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
Assemble the Bread: Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top. Add the rest of the batter and swirl it gently with a knife to create that signature cinnamon roll look. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-y bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 10-12
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
This banana bread is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your experience:
With Coffee: A warm slice of banana bread and a cup of freshly brewed coffee? Yes, please! It’s the perfect morning pick-me-up.
With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Feeling extra indulgent? Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for that irresistible combo of warmth and creaminess.
Topped with Fresh Berries: Add a pop of freshness with some ripe berries like raspberries or strawberries.
As a Gift: Package it up nicely with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for any occasion.
Additional Tips
Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:
Prep Ahead: Make this banana bread in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It gets even better the next day!
Freeze It: This recipe freezes really well. Just wrap the bread tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter! Mix just until everything is combined to keep the bread soft and fluffy.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the bananas with another fruit?
A1: While bananas are key to this recipe, you could try using applesauce or mashed pumpkin as a substitute, though the flavor will be different.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can make this banana bread a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q4: Can I use gluten-free flour?
A4: Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour. Just make sure to use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.
Q5: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A5: Yes! Feel free to add walnuts or pecans to the batter for a bit of crunch.
Q6: How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
A6: Simply use a dairy-free butter substitute, and you’ll have a dairy-free version of this banana bread.
Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Of course! Just make sure to adjust the baking time if you’re using a larger pan.
Q8: Can I add chocolate chips?
A8: Absolutely! Adding a handful of chocolate chips will give this banana bread an extra indulgent touch.
Q9: Is this recipe easy to make?
A9: Yes! The steps are simple and straightforward, so it’s perfect for bakers of all levels.
Q10: What’s the best way to reheat this banana bread?
A10: Reheat slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to warm it up and enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Cinnamon roll banana bread, a sweet, spiced masterpiece that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it with a hot cup of coffee or sharing it with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor every warm, cinnamon-swirled bite—you’re going to love this one! Happy baking!
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, fluffy, and bursting with the sweet flavor of bananas, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fusion of two favorite treats. Topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack. Get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mashed banana
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, mashed banana, vanilla extract, salt, and remaining sugar. Add the yeast mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and mashed banana until smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the Glaze:
- Whisk together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Finish:
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- These rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
- You can prepare them the night before and bake in the morning—just cover and refrigerate after assembling, then bake as directed.
- For an extra banana kick, add sliced bananas on top before baking!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg