If you have a soft spot for both cinnamon rolls and banana bread, then you are in for such a treat with this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread. It beautifully marries the moist, comforting vibes of banana bread with the rich, sweet swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, finished off with a luscious vegan cream cheese frosting. This recipe feels like a warm, cozy hug in every bite and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack any time of day.

Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is your first step to creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in the Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread. Each element plays a unique role—bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, cinnamon adds that signature warmth, and the vegan butter ensures every crumb is tender and rich.

3 overripe mashed bananas: These provide natural sweetness and make the bread irresistibly moist.
4 tbsp melted vegan butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the bread.
3/4 cup maple syrup: A natural sweetener that deepens flavor without overpowering.
1 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk: Keeps the bread dairy-free and light.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay fluffy.
1 tsp baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder to create the perfect texture.
1 tsp cinnamon: Gives that iconic spice that cinnamon rolls are famous for.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
1 1/2 cup regular or gluten free all purpose flour: The base of the batter, supporting structure without heaviness.
1 cup old fashioned rolled oats: Adds a subtle nuttiness and heartiness to the bread.
4 tbsp melted vegan butter (for the swirl): Combines with sugar and cinnamon to create the swirl’s luscious texture.
1/3 cup light brown sugar: Gives the cinnamon swirl a deep caramelized flavor.
2 tbsp cinnamon (for the swirl): Packs the swirl with bold, spicy notes that cut through the sweetness.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: Ingredient for the creamy, smooth frosting that tops the bread.
2 tbsp melted vegan butter (for the frosting): Adds to the frosting’s silky texture and richness.
2 oz softened vegan cream cheese: The star ingredient of the frosting, creating that signature tangy finish.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep your pan and oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a metal loaf pan with non-stick spray—this step ensures your cinnamon roll banana bread comes out perfectly without sticking, giving you a beautiful loaf to slice and share.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy. Then add the melted vegan butter, maple syrup, plant-based milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these gently will build the flavorful base of your bread.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients

Sprinkle in the flour and the rolled oats, stirring just enough to combine into a thick batter. The oats add a pleasant chew and wholesome texture that makes every slice comforting and rustic.

Step 4: Create and swirl in the cinnamon swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and extra cinnamon. Pour this luscious cinnamon swirl over the top of your batter in the loaf pan, then use a spoon to gently fold it in. This swirling motion creates those signature cinnamon roll ribbons baked right inside your banana bread.

Step 5: Bake to golden perfection

Place your loaf pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma during baking is simply irresistible and promises the comforting sweetness soon to be enjoyed.

Step 6: Whip up the vegan cream cheese frosting

While the bread bakes, whisk together the melted vegan butter, powdered sugar, and softened vegan cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This frosting adds a luscious finishing touch, balancing the cinnamon sweetness with a cool, tangy richness.

Step 7: Frost and enjoy

Once the loaf has cooled for a few minutes but is still warm, drizzle the vegan cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve immediately to experience the frosting gently melting into the bread’s swirled crevices, making each bite divine.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Garnishes

A simple dusting of extra cinnamon or a scattering of chopped toasted pecans can elevate this bread beautifully. These touches enhance both texture and flavor, giving you a delightful crunch and extra warmth with every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your slice with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes. For a wholesome breakfast, add a bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of coconut yogurt to brighten and balance the richness of the bread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the bread thickly and serving it toasted with a smear of vegan butter or almond butter for added indulgence. You can also cut into cubes and serve as part of a brunch spread with fruit compotes, or transform it into decadent French toast for a special weekend treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain moisture and keeps the frosting from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this bread later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or seal in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes beautifully for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge for a soft, moist slice anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy your cinnamon roll banana bread warm, pop slices in the toaster oven or microwave for short bursts, about 15–20 seconds. Warming brings back that freshly baked sensation and revives the frosting’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread without oats?

Absolutely! You can substitute oats with the same amount of flour or even add some chopped nuts, but oats add a lovely texture and wholesome bite that really balances the moisture of the bananas.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

This recipe is entirely vegan by using plant-based butter and milk, and you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to use gluten-free oats to keep it allergy-friendly.

Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?

Definitely! Regular butter will work just as well and will give the bread a richer dairy flavor. The choice depends on your dietary preferences but won’t affect the overall deliciousness.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe, with lots of brown spots or even fully brown skins. Overripe bananas are sweeter and mash easily, contributing to a moist and flavorful cinnamon roll banana bread.

Can I make this bread nut-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally nut-free assuming you use oat or almond milk that does not come from nuts if needed. Just double-check ingredient labels to make sure all components meet your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is a hug in loaf form, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring quietly with a warm drink. Its perfect balance of cinnamon sweetness, banana softness, and creamy frosting will make it an instant favorite in your baking repertoire. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to recipe that combines the best of two classic treats into one unforgettable bite.

Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf (10-12 slices) 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with moist, sweet banana bread. Made with vegan ingredients and optional gluten-free flour, this loaf features a cinnamon sugar swirl and a luscious vegan cream cheese frosting, perfect for a cozy snack or breakfast treat.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a metal loaf pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Mix Banana Bread Batter: In a large mixing bowl, mash the overripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to combine. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and rolled oats until a smooth batter forms.
Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the batter in the loaf pan, then use a spoon or knife to gently swirl it through the batter to create a cinnamon swirl effect.
Bake the Banana Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: While the bread bakes, whisk together melted vegan butter, powdered sugar, and softened vegan cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Cool and Frost: Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Drizzle the vegan cream cheese frosting over the warm banana bread and enjoy it while still warm.

Notes

Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Gluten-free flour can be substituted to make this recipe gluten free.
The vegan cream cheese frosting can be omitted for a simpler loaf.
Store leftover bread covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm treat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American