The moment you catch a whiff of this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread baking in the oven, you’re transported to a cozy café on a Sunday morning, where the aroma of cinnamon and sugar fills the air. Imagine slicing into a loaf that’s not only a beloved breakfast staple but also a decadently sweet treat for any time of day. This recipe combines the tender, moist texture of banana bread with delicate cinnamon swirls that remind you of warm cinnamon rolls, all topped off with a rich vegan cream cheese frosting. Perfect for busy mornings or casual get-togethers, this easy-to-make bread is gluten-free and plant-based, making it a delightful choice for everyone at your table. If you have overripe bananas sitting around, trust me, this is the sweet solution you’ve been waiting for!
Why will you love this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
Get ready for a flavor explosion! Moist and Tender: This bread has the perfect softness that melts in your mouth.
Sweet & Spicy: With cinnamon swirls dancing through every slice, your taste buds will be delighted.
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Special dietary needs? No problem—everyone can enjoy this treat!
Quick & Easy: Whip it up in no time with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
Crowd Pleaser: Serve it at brunch or dessert, and watch it disappear in an instant! This recipe truly transforms your overripe bananas into something spectacular.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
• Here’s what you need to create this delicious bread!
For the Batter
- Overripe Mashed Bananas – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; use at least three ripe bananas for optimal results.
- Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness and fat necessary for a tender texture; can substitute regular butter if not vegan.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetener that enhances overall flavor; substitute with agave syrup or honey (if not vegan).
- Unsweetened Almond or Oat Milk – Liquid ingredient that helps combine and bind the batter; soy or coconut milk are suitable alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor profile; no substitutions required.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Leavening agents to help the bread rise; ensure they are fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon – Key flavor spice, fragrant and warming; adjust according to personal preference.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; essential for balancing sweetness.
- Regular or Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure proper measuring for best outcomes.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Contributes texture and heartiness; substitute with additional flour if desired.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Brown Sugar – Caramelizes beautifully for the cinnamon swirl; can be substituted with coconut sugar.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection; adjust to taste.
- Vegan Cream Cheese – Adds a rich creamy finish; regular cream cheese can replace vegan options.
- Melted Vegan Butter – Ensures a smooth and luscious consistency; can also use regular butter if not vegan.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a metal loaf pan with vegan butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mash at least three overripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Mix in the melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients by stirring in baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add in the flour and oats, mixing until just combined without overmixing.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing together melted vegan butter, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the bread batter and gently swirl it with a knife to create a beautiful pattern.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the vegan cream cheese frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, vegan cream cheese, and melted vegan butter until smooth. Allow the bread to cool before generously spreading the frosting on top.
Optional: Garnish with extra cinnamon or chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days to retain its softness and moisture.
- Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the bread to extend its shelf life for up to a week; however, this may cause it to dry out.
- Freezer: Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy slices warm, microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Variations
Customize this delightful treat to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in 1 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet, gooey addition in every bite. You’ll love how the chocolate pairs with the cinnamon.
- Nutty Flavor Boost: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. It makes every slice irresistibly satisfying!
- Dried Fruit Medley: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity surprise amongst the soft bread. It’s a great way to mix in more natural sweetness!
- Spice it Up: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the cinnamon swirl for an unexpected spice. It will elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Coconut Twist: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk and add ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This twist makes every bite feel like a mini-vacation!
- Maple Pecan: Swap out the brown sugar in the swirl for maple syrup and sprinkle extra pecans on top before baking. It creates a crunchy topping and a heavenly aroma.
- Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens the overall sweetness. A subtle zing will make your taste buds dance!
- Savory Infusion: For a unique twist, reduce the sugar by half and add a sprinkle of sea salt and finely chopped fresh rosemary for a savory version. It’ll surprise everyone at the brunch table!
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
- Choose Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe, with brown spots, to achieve the sweetest and most moist Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough loaf instead of a tender one.
- Check Baking Powder: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; expired leaveners can cause the bread not to rise properly.
- Don’t Skip the Swirl: Drizzling the cinnamon swirl efficiently adds flavor throughout the loaf; make sure to swirl gently without fully mixing it in.
- Frost After Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting into a gooey mess.
- Storage Tip: Store the leftover bread at room temperature in a sealed container to avoid drying out; it will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
Imagine enjoying thick slices of this banana bread alongside delightful accompaniments that enhance its comforting, sweet flavors.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cinnamon bread, making each bite more vibrant. Enjoying this on a sunny morning is sheer joy!
- Greek Yogurt with Honey: The creamy, tart yogurt drizzled with honey balances out the sweetness of the bread and offers a protein boost. A perfect pairing to start your day!
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew complements the aromatic spices in the bread and enhances the overall cozy experience. The ideal way to savor each bite!
- Nut Butter Spread: Smooth almond or peanut butter adds a satisfying, nutty richness. Slather it on warm slices for a delectable energy boost any time of day.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this vegan topping swirls beautifully on the bread, adding a tropical note that brightens up the flavors. It’s a dreamy addition!
- Chocolate Fudge Sauce: Drizzle over slices for an indulgent dessert twist. The combination of banana, cinnamon, and chocolate is pure delight—both for the eyes and the palate!
- Chai-Spiced Tea Latte: The warming spices in chai echo the cinnamon in the bread, creating a harmonious duet of flavors. Curl up with this pairing, and feel the bliss!
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, saving you time on busy mornings! You can bake the bread up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow it to cool completely and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. If you’d like to prepare it even earlier, you can mix the batter and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking for even results. To maintain its delightful texture, avoid refrigerating the baked bread, as this can cause it to dry out. When ready to serve, frost it with the vegan cream cheese frosting, and you’ll enjoy fresh, warm slices that taste just as delicious!
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are very ripe, ideally with plenty of brown spots. The more ripe they are, the sweeter and moister your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread will be. Aim for at least three overripe bananas to get that perfect texture and flavor!
What’s the best way to store banana bread?
I recommend storing your cooled Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. This keeps it soft and moist. If you’re planning to keep it longer, refrigerating can extend its life to about a week, but be cautious as this may make the bread dry out.
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Can I freeze leftover banana bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a zip-top freezer bag for added protection. You can freeze the Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
What should I do if my banana bread comes out too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To achieve a lighter loaf, mix the ingredients until just combined. Also, ensure you’re measuring flour accurately—scooping directly from the bag can lead to excess flour in the mix.
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider for this recipe?
Very! This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is vegan and gluten-free if you use the appropriate flour substitutes. If you’re serving it to friends or family with allergies, double-check that your baking powder and all ingredients are labeled allergen-free. Plus, be mindful of adding any mix-ins that may not be suitable for all diets.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a metal loaf pan with vegan butter or cooking spray.
- Mash at least three overripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Mix in melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients by stirring in baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add in the flour and oats, mixing until just combined.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing together melted vegan butter, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Drizzle this mixture over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the vegan cream cheese frosting by whisking together powdered sugar, vegan cream cheese, and melted vegan butter until smooth. Allow the bread to cool before frosting.