There’s something magical about the fusion of flavors you didn’t know you needed. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, a delightful treat that combines the comfort of two beloved classics into one irresistible loaf. Not only is this recipe a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas, but its simple preparation makes it perfect for any baking enthusiast, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. The added swirl of cinnamon and the sweet glaze elevate this banana bread to a whole new level, turning your kitchen into a cozy bakery. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, so everyone can enjoy this deliciously comforting slice of joy. Ready to dive into a dreamy baking adventure? Let’s get started!
Why is this banana bread special?
Heavenly Fusion: The magical combination of cinnamon rolls and banana bread is sure to wow your taste buds!
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious loaf baking in no time.
Vegan-Friendly: This recipe uses vegan butter and cream cheese, making it a treat everyone can enjoy.
Irresistible Swirls: The sweet cinnamon swirl adds a delightful touch that transforms your banana bread into a must-try dessert.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, it's a versatile choice for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleasing: Share it with loved ones or wow your guests at your next gathering—this banana bread is sure to impress! For other exciting recipes, check out our guide on easy vegan baking.
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- 3 ripe bananas – use bananas that are well-browned for maximum sweetness.
- ⅓ cup melted vegan butter – this will keep the bread moist and rich.
- ½ cup maple syrup – adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness and depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup almond or oat milk – either milk works great to keep it vegan-friendly!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor of your delicious loaf.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – gives the bread a lovely rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – aids in leavening and gives a fluffy texture.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon – the star spice that harmonizes with the banana in this bread.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances out the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
- 1 ½ cups flour – provides the structure needed for the bread.
- 1 cup rolled oats – adds heartiness and healthy fiber to your treat.
For the Swirl
- 4 tablespoon melted vegan butter – ensures your swirl is rich and flavorful.
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar – adds a hint of molasses flavor; perfect for sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon – intensifies the delightful cinnamon flavor throughout the loaf.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – creates that sweet and glossy finish.
- 2 oz melted vegan butter – keeps the glaze smooth and drizzlable.
- 2 oz softened vegan cream cheese – adds creaminess and a touch of tang to the glaze.
This delightful Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread will not only fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma but will also melt in your mouth with every slice!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with vegan butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This ensures your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread bakes evenly and comes out beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ripe mashed bananas, ⅓ cup melted vegan butter, ½ cup maple syrup, ¼ cup almond or oat milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until everything is fully integrated and smooth, creating a fragrant base for your batter. This blending of ingredients yields a luscious consistency that will enhance your bread.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 ½ cups flour until well blended. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread tender and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Rolled Oats
Gently fold in 1 cup of rolled oats into the batter. This adds a wonderful heartiness and texture to your banana bread. The oats will help absorb some moisture and provide a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough, elevating this recipe to another level.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together 4 tablespoon melted vegan butter, ⅓ cup light brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon to create your flavorful cinnamon swirl. This sticky mixture will infuse your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread with layers of sweetness and spice, creating that signature swirl that everyone loves.
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over this batter layer for a delicious infusion of flavors. Then, carefully add the remaining batter on top, ensuring it covers the swirl below.
Step 7: Add and Swirl Remaining Mixture
Drizzle the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top of the batter. Using a knife, gently swirl the topping through the batter, creating a marbled effect. This step is essential for achieving those beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout the loaf, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste of your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the bread is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait for the bread to cool down!
Step 9: Cool the Bread
Once baked, let your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the bread from becoming soggy while ensuring it retains its perfect texture.
Step 10: Make the Glaze
For the luscious glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 oz melted vegan butter, and 2 oz softened vegan cream cheese until the mixture is smooth. This velvety glaze will add a sweet finish to your bread, transforming it into a stunning dessert or treat for any occasion.
Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
Once the banana bread has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. This final touch adds a sweet and creamy contrast to the warm, spiced flavors in your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread. Slice and enjoy this delicious treat with family and friends!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
There's something beautifully indulgent about pairing this sweet loaf with complementary dishes that enhance its flavor.
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Fruity Yogurt Parfait: A refreshing blend of yogurt, berries, and granola offers a tangy contrast that brightens every bite.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai balance the sweetness of the bread, creating a warm, comforting beverage to sip on.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping adds a tropical twist, enhancing the cinnamon flavors while adding silky texture.
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Maple Almond Butter: Slathering this nutty delight on warm slices creates a rich, creamy experience that elevates your bread's taste.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the sweetness of the banana bread perfectly.
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Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars: These decadent bars bring a rich, nutty flavor that moves beautifully alongside the cinnamon notes of the loaf.
Each of these pairings will invite you to savor the delightful experience of your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread in new, enticing ways!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 days to maintain its deliciousness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Slice and freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm slice anytime.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly in a toaster oven for a comforting fresh-baked experience.
Make Ahead Options
These deliciously easy Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the wet and dry ingredients together and store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on busy mornings. Alternatively, you can bake the banana bread in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just make sure it's properly cooled first to maintain its texture. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat slices in the microwave for a minute or two, or serve at room temperature before drizzling with the creamy glaze for a delightful finish. This way, you can savor that freshly baked flavor without the fuss during your hectic week!
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this recipe to fit your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a suitable option, and adjust baking time as necessary.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of walnuts or pecans for a wonderful crunch and a boost of protein. The nutty flavors pair beautifully with the sweetness of the bread.
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Chocolate Delight: Add ½ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist. Chocolate and banana are a match made in heaven!
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Spiced Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic twist that brings warmth and depth to the bread.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in ½ cup of chopped apples or pears for an extra fruity burst. This addition enhances the moisture and flavor profile deliciously.
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Extra Cinnamon: Increase the amount of cinnamon in the batter or swirl to 2 tablespoons for a spice that warms the soul.
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Maple Glaze: Swap the powdered sugar in the glaze for maple syrup for a different sweetness. It will add a unique flavor that complements the bread incredibly well.
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Crunchy Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon on top for a delightful crunchy crust. This extra texture elevates every bite.
For more delicious ideas, don't forget to explore our guide on incredible oatmeal recipes or check out these easy vegan baking tips to enhance your baking experience!
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter your bread will be! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum flavor.
Gentle Mixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light, fluffy bread you desire.
Swirl Method: Don’t skip swirling the cinnamon mixture! Use a knife to create a beautiful marbled effect—this enhances both the taste and appearance of your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread.
Oven Check: Ovens can vary, so check your bread a few minutes before the timer goes off. Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when fully baked, ensuring perfect moisture.
Cooling Process: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and sweetness in your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, opt for bananas that are well-ripened, preferably with lots of brown spots. This indicates they are at their peak sweetness, which will enhance the overall taste of the bread.
How should I store my Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
I often recommend keeping the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let it reach room temperature before you indulge!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
Very! To freeze your delightful bread, simply slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer bags, ensuring all air is removed. This way, your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread can last up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it at room temperature or quickly microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
What if my bread comes out too dense?
If your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Remember to mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently, just until combined. This preserves the fluffy texture you want. Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is vegan-friendly, which means there are no eggs or dairy. Still, check the labels on your vegan butter and cream cheese, as some might contain allergens. If preparing for guests, consider potential nut allergies, especially if using almond milk. Otherwise, oat milk is a great alternative!
Deliciously Easy Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and flour. Fold into wet ingredients gently.
- Gently fold in rolled oats into the batter.
- In a small bowl, mix melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon to create cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Pour half of the batter into the pan, drizzle half the swirl mixture over it. Add the remaining batter on top.
- Drizzle the rest of the swirl mixture and use a knife to swirl it through the batter.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, melted vegan butter, and softened vegan cream cheese until smooth.
- Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the banana bread and slice to serve.
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