How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of rich, warm banana flavor and the comforting, gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls. This lightened-up version allows you to indulge in a healthier treat without compromising on flavor or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet & Moist: A delicious blend of banana bread and cinnamon rolls in one satisfying treat.
Healthier Ingredients: Uses mashed bananas, whole wheat flour, and a reduced sugar filling.
Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert: A versatile recipe that’s ideal for a cozy morning or a sweet treat after dinner.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping in advance and storing for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1/4 cup low-fat milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar substitute)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or light butter)

For the Icing (Optional):

• 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or powdered sugar substitute
• 1 tablespoon milk or almond milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
• In a separate bowl, mix applesauce, mashed banana, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
• Knead the dough for about 1–2 minutes until smooth, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).

Make the Filling:

• In a small bowl, combine coconut sugar and cinnamon.
• Brush the rolled-out dough with melted coconut oil, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Roll & Slice:

• Carefully roll up the dough into a log, starting from one edge.
• Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.

Bake the Rolls:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Make the Icing (Optional):

• In a small bowl, whisk together powdered erythritol, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Serve & Enjoy:

• Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 160
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g

Tips for Success

• Use Overripe Bananas: Overripe bananas are sweeter and provide more flavor for the dough.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Stir until just combined for soft and tender rolls.
• Roll Tight: Rolling the dough tightly ensures nice, fluffy rolls.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before and bake it in the morning.

Why This Recipe Works

• Soft & Fluffy: These cinnamon rolls are moist and tender thanks to the banana bread base.
• Healthier Option: The use of whole wheat flour, coconut sugar, and minimal butter makes this recipe lighter.
• Easy to Customize: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the filling for extra flavor.

These homemade Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious way to enjoy a comforting treat without the guilt. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!