One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re a fan of comforting breakfasts and irresistible sweet treats, then you are absolutely going to love this One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. It combines the tender, moist texture of banana bread with the warm, spicy swirl of cinnamon rolls—all made effortlessly in a single bowl. Perfectly rich from ripe bananas and sweetened naturally with a touch of maple syrup or honey, these cinnamon rolls are not just delicious but also surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or an anytime snack, this recipe delivers that cozy homemade feel with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple pantry staples that come together to create a deliciously moist dough packed with flavor. Each ingredient plays an important role in texture, taste, or aroma, making these cinnamon rolls truly special.

• Mashed ripe bananas: Provides natural sweetness and moisture while adding a subtle banana flavor.
• Maple syrup or honey: A natural sweetener that enhances sweetness without overpowering the bananas.
• Unsweetened applesauce: Helps keep the rolls moist while reducing the need for extra oil.
• Melted coconut oil or butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Brings out the warmth and depth of flavor in the dough.
• Ground cinnamon: Split between the dough and swirl for that signature spicy kick.
• Baking soda: Gives just enough lift to keep the rolls soft and light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• All-purpose or gluten-free flour: The structure-builder that turns the mixture into a dough.
• Coconut sugar or brown sugar (for filling): Creates that perfectly sweet and caramelized cinnamon swirl.
• Chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Powdered sugar: The base for the luscious glaze topping.
• Almond milk or milk of choice: Thins the glaze for smooth drizzling.

How to Make One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, or any similar sized pan, to ensure your rolls won’t stick and come out perfectly golden. Having your baking space ready makes the whole process smoother and helps you maintain the flow.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients in One Bowl

This is where the beauty of the One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly shines. In your large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, then add your maple syrup or honey, unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir everything gently until it’s beautifully combined, creating a rich, fragrant base for your dough.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

To the same bowl, sprinkle in the baking soda, salt, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Then gradually add the flour, mixing until you form a thick, cohesive dough. It’s a wonderfully hands-on step where the dough pulls together effortlessly, almost like magic, thanks to the moisture from the bananas and applesauce.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, combine the coconut or brown sugar with the remaining tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture becomes your irresistibly sweet and spicy filling. Setting this aside for a moment lets you focus on rolling out the dough perfectly.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough and Add the Filling

Lightly flour your workspace and roll your dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle. This thin layer is key for getting delicate layers in each cinnamon roll. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the surface, and if you’re feeling a bit nutty, scatter the chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 6: Roll, Slice, and Arrange

Carefully roll the dough from the long edge into a tight log. This step can be so satisfying as you see the cinnamon swirl start to form inside. Slice the log into 8 to 10 even rolls and place them snugly into your prepared baking dish—this close placement ensures soft sides that meld together beautifully while baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Perfection

Slide your rolls into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye out for a lovely golden brown color and a firm yet soft touch. The aroma wafting from your oven will let you know you are exactly on track.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and almond milk to create a sweet, silky glaze. This glaze is the perfect finishing touch, adding a lovely sweetness and a bit of shine once drizzled over warm rolls.

Step 9: Drizzle and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, generously drizzle your glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls. The glaze will melt into the swirls, filling every nook with sugary goodness. Let them cool just slightly before digging in; these are best enjoyed warm and fresh!

How to Serve One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For a final touch that wows, consider sprinkling additional chopped walnuts or a dusting of extra cinnamon on top of the glazed rolls. A few fresh banana slices or even a light drizzle of maple syrup can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

These rolls pair beautifully with a side of fresh seasonal fruit or a creamy bowl of yogurt to balance the sweetness. A hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or your favorite latte makes the perfect beverage to complement the warm spices and banana flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your cinnamon rolls into a shareable brunch centerpiece by arranging them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fruit and nuts. Alternatively, split a roll and add a dollop of whipped cream or nut butter for an indulgent snack. They also make adorable individual servings if you place each in a cupcake liner before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and fresh, preserving that tender crumb and flavorful cinnamon swirl.

Freezing

Want to enjoy these rolls later? Freeze them unglazed in a single layer on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your cinnamon rolls back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. Adding a bit more glaze or butter before serving will refresh their moist, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots are actually ideal because they are sweeter and mash more easily, imparting great flavor to your banana bread cinnamon rolls.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Using coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk (or any plant-based milk) for the glaze keeps this recipe completely dairy-free without sacrificing richness or taste.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely. While the recipe suggests chopped walnuts for a nice crunch, you can swap them for pecans, chocolate chips, or dried fruit depending on your preference.

Do I need a stand mixer to make the dough?

Nope! The One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is designed for easy mixing by hand right in one bowl, making clean-up a breeze and the process more enjoyable.

How do I get the cinnamon swirl to stay inside the rolls?

Rolling the dough tightly and slicing carefully helps keep the swirl intact. Using just enough filling without overloading the dough ensures the cinnamon sugar layers won’t spill out during baking.

Final Thoughts

This One-Bowl Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is truly a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s simple, fun to make, and packed with flavors that everyone will adore. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—whether for a cozy morning or a sweet snack, it’s bound to become one of your favorites just like it is mine!

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