FAQsCan I use ripe bananas in cinnamon rolls?

Yes, ripe bananas are actually ideal! The riper, the better—those brown speckled bananas are packed with natural sweetness and moisture. They’re the secret behind the ultra-soft texture in this banana cinnamon rolls recipe.

What frosting goes best with banana Bread cinnamon rolls?

Cream cheese frosting is hands down the best match. Its tangy flavor balances the sweet banana and cinnamon perfectly. You can also experiment with a maple glaze or a vanilla drizzle, but cream cheese is a classic for a reason.

How do you keep banana bread cinnamon rolls soft?

Keep them covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. You can also microwave rolls for a few seconds to revive their softness. Bananas in the dough help them stay moist naturally. Just avoid overbaking to maintain that tender texture.

Can I freeze banana Bread cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely. You can freeze them frosted or unfrosted. For best results, freeze without frosting and add it fresh after reheating. If freezing with frosting, just know the texture might be slightly softer once thawed, but still delicious.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm milk
2 tbsp granulated sugar
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 large egg
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

2 tbsp softened butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional: 1 tbsp milk or maple syrup

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it bloom for 10 minutes until frothy.
Add mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, and salt. Stir until combined.
Gradually add flour and knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place, or until doubled in size.
Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly.
Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 even rolls. Place in a greased 9×13” pan.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
While baking, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk if needed for spreading consistency.
Spread cream cheese frosting over warm banana cinnamon rolls and serve.

Notes

Use very ripe bananas for the best banana cinnamon rolls recipe results.
These soft banana bread rolls with frosting can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
To reheat, microwave for 15–20 seconds.
You can freeze banana bread cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting either before or after baking.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian