Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe

There is something truly magical about the comforting warmth of Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, a luscious blend of sweet banana goodness swirled with that irresistible cinnamon spice we all adore. This recipe captures the cozy essence of cinnamon rolls but gives it a homey, hearty twist with moist banana bread as its base. Each bite feels like a warm hug, perfectly balanced with a dreamy vegan cream cheese frosting that melts lovingly over the golden crust. If you’re craving a treat that’s both nostalgic and novel, this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread will quickly become your new obsession.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to deliver extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays its role in creating that moist, spiced, and tender loaf, with the bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture, and the oats lending delightful heartiness.

• 3 overripe mashed bananas: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a moist texture perfect for quick bread.
• 4 tablespoons melted vegan butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb while keeping the loaf vegan-friendly.
• 3/4 cup maple syrup: Offers natural, caramel-like sweetness that pairs amazingly with bananas and cinnamon.
• 1 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk: Keeps the batter moist and dairy-free with a subtle nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing warmth and depth.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise perfectly fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity of bananas for optimal lift and texture.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses the batter with that iconic spice that makes this bread feel like a cinnamon roll.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour: The structural foundation of the bread, adaptable for gluten sensitivity.
• 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats: Adds texture and a wholesome chew, making every bite interesting.
• 4 tablespoons melted vegan butter (for cinnamon swirl): Used to create the rich, gooey cinnamon swirl that makes this bread extra special.
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully in the swirl mixture.
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl): Provides that bold cinnamon flavor integral to the “cinnamon roll” experience.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the creamy frosting topping just right without overpowering.
• 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter (for frosting): Adds silkiness and richness to the frosting.
• 2 oz softened vegan cream cheese: Creates the luscious, tangy frosting that hugs the bread perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven warms up, lightly grease a metal loaf pan with nonstick spray to ensure your beautiful bread releases easily once baked. Prepping the baking pan properly is key to a perfect loaf rise and an easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash those overripe bananas with a fork until very soft and slightly chunky for texture. Add the melted vegan butter, maple syrup, plant milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon—mixing well to combine. The aroma at this stage already hints at the deliciousness ahead!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Batter

Sprinkle baking powder, baking soda, salt, flour, and oats over the wet mixture. Fold everything gently just until the batter comes together; be careful not to overmix to keep your bread tender and light. The oats add a lovely texture contrast, making each slice uniquely satisfying.

Step 4: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. In a small bowl, whisk together melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl mixture. Drizzle this mixture over the top of your batter and use a spoon to gently fold it in, making sure those glorious cinnamon pockets get nestled throughout the bread.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The scent filling your kitchen at this stage is pure comfort and joy.

Step 6: Prepare the Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bread is baking, mix melted vegan butter, powdered sugar, and softened vegan cream cheese with a whisk until smooth and creamy. This frosting perfectly balances the warm spices with tangy sweetness and takes the Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread to new heights.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the loaf has cooled for a few minutes but is still warm, generously drizzle the vegan cream cheese frosting over the top. This creates a soft, gooey finish that makes each bite sensationally rich and moist.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans or walnuts on top adds an inviting crunch and a nutty contrast to the creamy frosting. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust a little ground cinnamon or even a drizzle of maple syrup right before serving.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a handful of juicy grapes. A cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or your favorite latte creates the ultimate cozy breakfast or afternoon treat combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread and serving it warm with a smear of almond butter or vegan cream cheese for a delightful snack. You can also cube leftover bread and toast it lightly to use as a topping for dairy-free yogurt parfaits or as a sweet crouton in your morning salad for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep it moist and fresh. After that, refrigeration is best to prevent spoilage but can dry the bread out slightly.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or pop slices directly in a toaster or oven.

Reheating

Reheat slices at 350°F for about 10 minutes or toast them lightly for that just-baked warmth and softness. If reheating the whole loaf, cover it with foil to avoid excess browning and warm gently until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter in this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute regular butter if you’re not strictly vegan; it will add richness and a lovely flavor boost to the bread.

Will this recipe work with ripe but not overripe bananas?

While overripe bananas are preferred for their sweetness and softness, slightly ripe bananas can work. Just expect a less intense banana flavor and adjust sweetness if needed.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour works well. Just ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free for the best results.

How can I store leftover vegan cream cheese frosting?

Keep any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring it to room temperature and stir gently before using again.

Is it possible to make this bread nut-free?

Definitely! This recipe is naturally nut-free if you choose oat milk instead of almond milk, and avoid garnishing with nuts. It’s a perfect allergy-friendly treat for many people.

Final Thoughts

Making Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is like inviting a cozy morning hug into your kitchen, with all the best parts of a cinnamon roll wrapped up in a moist, flavorful loaf. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with your friends and family. There’s just something so wonderfully satisfying about the layers of cinnamon, banana, and creamy frosting that makes every bite special. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to for breakfasts, snacks, or anytime you want a bit of homemade comfort.

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