If you’re craving an irresistibly cozy treat that manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh, you simply have to try these Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls. They start with a pillowy homemade dough and get a gooey, spiced banana and nut filling, then the whole pan is crowned with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. The result? Dessert, breakfast, or brunch perfection with sticky-sweet banana flavor in every bite. Whether you bake them to impress a crowd or just to make your kitchen smell like heaven on a lazy weekend, these rolls are sure to become a new favorite.

Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you! Each ingredient was chosen with love: every one plays a role in creating the distinct taste, soft texture, and warm color of these Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls. Gather everything first and you’ll be ready to whip up bakery-level goodness right at home.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, giving these rolls their perfect balance of soft and chewy.
Instant yeast: Fast-acting yeast guarantees a reliable rise and those beautiful, fluffy spirals.
Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the dough without overwhelming the banana flavor.
Salt: Just a touch helps enhance all the sweet and nutty flavors throughout the rolls.
Milk (warmed): Warm milk activates the yeast and gives the dough a rich, tender crumb.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and a hint of buttery flavor in both the dough and frosting.
Eggs: They enrich the dough and lend a soft, delicate texture.
Mashed ripe bananas: The star of the show; use very ripe bananas for the sweetest, most intense flavor.
Brown sugar: Brings warm, caramel notes to the filling and helps make each bite sticky and decadent.
Ground cinnamon: It’s not a cinnamon roll without this cozy, spicy staple running through every swirl.
Chopped walnuts or pecans: For nutty crunch and a lovely contrast to the soft banana filling.
Cream cheese (softened): Essential for velvety-smooth, tangy frosting that melts over the warm rolls.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect drizzle.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the frosting with a sweet, aromatic finish.

How to Make Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Begin by whisking your flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, blend the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 5 to 7 minutes on a floured surface. You’re aiming for a soft, elastic dough that feels slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rest in a warm, draft-free spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This is what ensures your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls bake up light and airy—don’t rush it!

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mash your ripe bananas until nearly smooth. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and your choice of finely chopped walnuts or pecans. The mixture should be sweet, spiced, and wonderfully nutty. This step infuses every bite with that signature banana-nut flavor.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick; aim for even thickness—this helps the rolls bake uniformly and makes swirling so satisfying!

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Spread the banana-nut filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, getting close to the edges but leaving a small border. Roll the dough up tightly from the longer side into a log, then pinch the seam shut. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces, and place them cut side up in a greased baking dish. This is where the gorgeous spiral pattern comes to life.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover your pan with a towel and give the rolls another 30 minutes to rise. They should puff up beautifully, so they touch each other in the pan. This makes them extra soft and ensures they bake into a classic “pull-apart” style.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the rolls finish their second rise. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through—the aroma will fill your whole kitchen with anticipation!

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the rolls bake or cool, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and totally irresistible. If you like thinner frosting, add a splash of milk; for extra-thick, stick with the recipe as written.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Drizzle or spread the luscious cream cheese frosting over the slightly cooled rolls, letting it melt gloriously into all the swirls and seams. Serve your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls warm, when the filling is gooey and the frosting is melty—pure bliss!

How to Serve Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, sprinkle a handful of extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon over the finished Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls. A touch of fresh banana slices or even a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce adds flair and flavor. If you want them truly bakery-worthy, top with a few extra bits of walnut or pecan before serving.

Side Dishes

These Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls are a showstopper on their own but play well with others. Pair with a creamy fruit salad, a steaming cup of coffee, or freshly squeezed orange juice for a dreamy breakfast spread. If you’re hosting brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or a savory egg dish for a delightfully balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls to the next level by arranging them on a cake stand or wide platter, letting the swirls peek out. For a special occasion, try baking them in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm, or serve individual rolls in cupcake liners for neat, portable treats at potlucks or gatherings. For gifting, box them up with a sweet note—homemade love at its finest!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls (which, honestly, is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge—just bring to room temperature or warm gently before serving for maximum softness and flavor.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled, wrap individual Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for about 1 to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, gently reheat Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. If you froze them, let them completely thaw first. Add a little extra frosting if you like—there’s no such thing as too much!

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Absolutely! Just dissolve the active dry yeast in the warmed milk and a pinch of sugar, let it sit until bubbly (about 5–10 minutes), and then continue with the recipe as usual. Your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls will still rise beautifully.

What kind of nuts are best for these rolls?

Both walnuts and pecans shine in this recipe, each adding their own distinct crunch and flavor. Choose your favorite, or use a mix—feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand!

Can I make these rolls dairy free?

Yes! Substitute the milk with your favorite non-dairy milk, use vegan butter, and swap in a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. These tweaks will keep your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls lush and tasty.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with brown spots but not completely black. Overripe bananas impart more sweetness and that classic banana flavor, making your Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls truly special.

Can I prepare the rolls the night before?

Definitely. Assemble the rolls, cover the pan tightly, and refrigerate overnight before the second rise. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and finish the second rise before baking—you’ll have fresh, warm Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls with zero early-morning fuss.

Final Thoughts

If you want to turn any morning into a celebration, or simply crave a twist on classic cinnamon rolls, these Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls are destined to steal the show. I can’t wait for you to take that first gooey, nutty, banana-kissed bite—don’t forget to share a pan (or two) with someone you love!