Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Unique Flavor: The sweetness of bananas and the crunch of nuts elevate the classic cinnamon roll.
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Soft and Fluffy: The rolls are incredibly light and pillowy, just the way cinnamon rolls should be.
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Warm and Cozy: The combination of cinnamon and bananas makes these rolls the ultimate comfort food.
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Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert: Great for lazy mornings or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
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Customizable: Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or other nuts for extra flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 package of cinnamon roll dough (store-bought or homemade)
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2 ripe bananas (mashed)
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (or a mix of both)
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup butter (melted)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
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Prepare the Dough:
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If using store-bought cinnamon roll dough, roll it out into a flat rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
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If making dough from scratch, roll the dough out to a similar size.
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Make the Filling:
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In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
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Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
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Assemble the Rolls:
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Spread the banana mixture evenly over the dough.
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Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the banana filling.
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Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one long edge, and pinch the seams to seal the roll.
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Slice and Bake:
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Slice the rolled dough into 8–12 pieces and place them into a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake according to the package instructions (if using store-bought dough) or for about 25–30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown.
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Optional Glaze:
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Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or top with whipped cream cheese for extra indulgence.
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Servings and Timing
Servings: 8-12 rolls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Add Chocolate: Mix chocolate chips into the filling for a rich, sweet contrast to the bananas.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the rolls with a creamy frosting made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla.
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Use Other Nuts: Try almonds or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
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Banana Chips: For extra banana flavor, add chopped banana chips to the filling.
Storage
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 2 months—just reheat them in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bananas instead of mashed bananas?
Yes, just make sure to mash them before spreading over the dough.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, bake them fresh for breakfast.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough for this recipe.
Can I freeze these rolls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Can I add other fruits?
You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a different twist.
Conclusion
Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls are a fun and delicious twist on a classic breakfast treat. With their soft texture, sweet banana filling, and crunchy nut topping, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family breakfast or a special brunch, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the comforting flavors of banana bread and cinnamon rolls all in one bite!
Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–12 rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Banana Nut Cinnamon Rolls combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts and warm cinnamon spice. Soft, fluffy, and indulgent, these rolls make the perfect breakfast, brunch, or sweet snack. With a simple glaze or whipped cream cheese topping, they’re a comforting treat that’s sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
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1 package cinnamon roll dough (store-bought or homemade)
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2 ripe bananas (mashed)
-
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (or a mix of both)
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup butter (melted)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Glaze:
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Powdered sugar
- Milk
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough:
If using store-bought cinnamon roll dough, roll it out into a flat rectangle on a lightly floured surface. If using homemade dough, roll it out to a similar size. -
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined. -
Assemble the Rolls:
Spread the banana mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the banana filling. -
Roll and Slice:
Carefully roll up the dough from one long edge and pinch the seams to seal the roll. Slice the rolled dough into 8–12 pieces, depending on your desired roll size. -
Bake:
Place the slices into a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake according to package instructions for store-bought dough or for about 25–30 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown. -
Optional Glaze:
Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or top with whipped cream cheese for extra indulgence.
Notes
Add Chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips into the banana filling for a sweet contrast.Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the rolls with a creamy frosting made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.Use Other Nuts: Try almonds, hazelnuts, or even pecans for a different nutty flavor.Banana Chips: For added banana flavor, mix in chopped banana chips in the filling
