If you love the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls and the sweet, moist goodness of banana bread, then you absolutely must try this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe. It effortlessly combines the best of both worlds into a loaf that’s rich, tender, and swirled with a decadent cinnamon-sugar filling. Every slice offers that perfect balance between soft banana flavor and the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, making it the ideal treat for breakfast, snack time, or even a cozy dessert. Trust me, once you bake this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but carefully chosen to create the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma in your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe. From the natural sweetness of ripe bananas to the warm spice of cinnamon, every component plays a vital role in transforming humble pantry staples into a showstopper loaf.
- 3 overripe mashed bananas: Adds natural sweetness and moisture while keeping the bread tender.
- 4 tbsp melted vegan butter: Infuses a rich, buttery taste and helps bind the ingredients.
- 3/4 cup maple syrup: Provides a deep, natural sweetness that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk: Keeps the loaf moist without overpowering flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and adds subtle depth to the flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour: Ensures a tender crumb while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds texture and a hearty touch to the loaf.
- 4 tbsp melted vegan butter (for cinnamon swirl): Used to create the luscious cinnamon swirl that makes this recipe truly special.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar: Combines with cinnamon to give the filling its sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 2 tbsp cinnamon: The star spice in the swirl, delivering warmth and comforting aroma.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly hot right when your batter is ready. Meanwhile, grease your loaf pan so your beautiful bread doesn’t stick and comes out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the overripe mashed bananas with the melted vegan butter. Then stir in the maple syrup, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, well-integrated mixture. This blend sets the base for the luscious moistness and sweetness that makes this bread irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt (note: the original recipe lists baking powder, baking soda, and salt though not in the ingredients list; if desired, you can add those staples to maintain proper rising and seasoning). Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula, mixing gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, and we want tender perfection.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. This filling is what transforms the loaf, adding ribbons of gooey, cinnamon-spiced sweetness perfectly balanced with the bread itself.
Step 5: Layer and Swirl
Pour half of your batter into the greased loaf pan, then evenly spread half of the cinnamon filling over it. Top with the remaining batter and the rest of the filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter to create those signature cinnamon roll patterns without overmixing.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your loaf for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell while it bakes is heavenly, signaling that your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe is transforming into a golden, fragrant delight.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread shines on its own, feel free to add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vegan glaze to elevate its look and sweetness. Fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving can add a beautiful final touch.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of vegan cream cheese or nut butter on the side. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or a cup of warm oat milk latte to complement the warm cinnamon notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch or gathering, cut the cinnamon roll banana bread into thick slices and arrange them alongside mini jars of various toppings like maple syrup, fruit compote, or almond butter. You could also toast slices lightly and serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days, though it’s so delicious it rarely lasts that long!
Freezing
This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf first, then freeze slices individually wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a quick thawed or toasted slice anytime you want.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers warm, heat slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes or microwave for around 20 seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and melts the cinnamon swirl just perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?
Absolutely! Using regular butter will still give you a rich, buttery flavor. The recipe works beautifully with either choice, depending on your dietary preferences.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe uses gluten-free all-purpose flour, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just be sure your flour blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for best texture.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect because they’re sweeter and easier to mash, which adds natural moisture and flavor to the bread.
Can I make this bread nut-free?
Definitely. Just choose oat milk instead of almond milk, and ensure your flour blend and toppings are free from nuts for a safe, nut-free treat.
Can I substitute maple syrup with honey or sugar?
You can swap maple syrup for honey if you’re not strictly vegan, but it may slightly change the flavor. Granulated sugar isn’t recommended as the liquid syrup adds important moisture to the batter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, delicious, and uniquely delightful way to enjoy banana bread, this Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe is your new best friend. It’s so fun and satisfying to make, and every bite is like enjoying a warm hug. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen—your family and friends will thank you for it!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread combines the moist sweetness of ripe bananas with a delightful cinnamon swirl, creating a vegan and gluten-free loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy treat. Enhanced with maple syrup and plant-based ingredients, it offers a healthier twist on traditional banana bread while delivering a comforting cinnamon roll flavor.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Batter
- 3 overripe mashed bananas
- 4 tbsp melted vegan butter
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cinnamon Swirl
- 4 tbsp melted vegan butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the banana bread evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted vegan butter. Stir in maple syrup, almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense bread.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix the melted vegan butter with light brown sugar and cinnamon to create the cinnamon filling.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into a greased loaf pan. Spread half of the cinnamon filling over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and then dollop the rest of the cinnamon filling. Use a knife to gently swirl the filling into the batter for a marbled cinnamon effect.
- Bake: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll banana bread.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- You can substitute gluten-free flour with regular all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.
