The warm, spiced aroma of Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread wafting through my kitchen is enough to transport me to cherished Sunday mornings spent with loved ones. This recipe marries the comforting qualities of traditional banana bread with a delicious cinnamon swirl, creating a vegan and gluten-free delight that’s easy to whip up. I adore how quickly it comes together, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet dessert after dinner. With natural sweetness from ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup, you can indulge guilt-free. Plus, bonus points: it’s freezer-friendly, so you can always have a slice on hand for when the craving strikes! Are you ready to fill your home with this delightful aroma and enjoy a slice of heaven?

Why is Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread a Must-Try?

Irresistible Aroma: The moment it starts baking, your kitchen will be filled with an enchanting scent that’s impossible to resist, making it a favorite for family gatherings.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunch plans.

Vegan and Gluten-Free: Catering to diverse dietary preferences, this bread is a delicious treat everyone can enjoy, including those who are health-conscious.

Versatile Enjoyment: Whether served warm with a pat of vegan butter or as a delightful dessert topped with vegan cream cheese glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Freezer-Friendly: Bake it today and store for later; simply slice and freeze for a quick, sweet indulgence whenever you crave this comforting treat.

Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Ingredients

For the Bread
• Mashed Bananas – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; use very ripe bananas for best results.
• Melted Vegan Butter – Provides fat and enhances flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a different taste.
• Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener to enhance flavor; agave syrup can be used as a substitute.
• Almond or Oat Milk – Adds moisture and lightness; any plant-based milk works here.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; use pure extract for best results.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents for rise; ensure they are fresh for the best effect.
• Cinnamon – For that signature flavor; adjust quantity for personal taste.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavors; essential for balance.
• Flour (All-Purpose or Gluten-Free) – The main structure of the bread; gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used as a direct substitute.
• Rolled Oats – Adds texture and heartiness; ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness with a molasses undertone for the cinnamon swirl; white sugar can be substituted if needed.

For the Cinnamon Swirl
• Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the swirl; ensure it’s melted for easy mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Sweetness and depth; enhances the swirl’s caramel-like flavor.
• Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, comforting taste; feel free to adjust to your liking.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and creaminess for the glaze; sifting helps achieve a smooth texture.
• Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the glaze; make sure it’s fully melted.
• Softened Vegan Cream Cheese – Gives that creamy texture and tangy flavor; adjust for consistency to your liking.

Enjoy creating this delicious Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread that’s sure to warm your heart and home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a thin layer of oil or vegan butter. This will ensure that your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread releases easily after baking. Set the pan aside while you prepare the batter, letting it fully cool before touching.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all the ingredients are blended smoothly, creating a luscious, creamy mixture. This blend serves as the sweet base for your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread, ensuring it will be moist and delightful.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and your chosen flour, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The dry mix will provide structure and flavor to the bread. Once combined, set this mixture aside as you focus on integrating it with the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the dry flour mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser loaf. The batter for your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread should be thick but evenly moistened.

Step 5: Fold in Rolled Oats
Next, fold in the rolled oats gently, distributing them throughout the thick batter. This adds a heartiness to the bread and enhances the overall texture. The oats will also provide a lovely chewiness, making each slice satisfying, so be sure they are well incorporated without overworking the batter.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the melted vegan butter, light brown sugar, and additional cinnamon. The mixture should be smooth and somewhat syrupy, creating a rich, flavorful swirl. Set this cinnamon mixture aside to layer into your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread later, boosting that irresistible cinnamon aroma.

Step 7: Layer the Batter and Swirl
Spread half of the banana batter into the prepared loaf pan evenly. Next, drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of the batter. Carefully dollop and spread the remaining batter over this layer before finishing with the rest of the cinnamon swirl, adding a few ribbons for that signature cinnamon roll look.

Step 8: Create a Swirl Design
Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl through the batter and cinnamon mixture, creating beautiful marbling. Be mindful not to mix too deeply; just a few strokes are enough to create an appealing design while maintaining distinct layers of the banana and cinnamon swirl.

Step 9: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan into your preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. You’ll know your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is done when it turns golden brown and a delightful aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather.

Step 10: Cool the Loaf
Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the loaf to firm up slightly, making it easier to transfer. Once cooled, use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Make the Glaze
While waiting for the loaf to cool, whip up a simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, melted vegan butter, and softened vegan cream cheese until smooth. The glaze should be creamy and easy to drizzle. Set it aside, ready to add a final touch of sweetness to your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread.

Step 12: Drizzle and Serve
Once your bread has completely cooled, drizzle the creamy glaze generously over the top. Slice and serve your warm or room-temperature Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread as a delightful treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert! Enjoy the cozy flavors that remind you of a sweet Sunday morning.

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Room Temperature: Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days; just allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Slice the bread and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil for freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them in a toaster oven to revive that fresh-baked taste!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?

Indulging in a slice of warm Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is just the beginning—let’s create a delightful spread around it!

Vegan Butter: A pat of rich vegan butter enhances the moist bread, making each bite even more succulent and satisfying.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries, oranges, and melons adds a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the bread.
Chai Latte: The warm spices in a creamy chai latte perfectly complement the cinnamon notes, creating a cozy experience on chilly mornings.
Nut Butter Spread: Creamy almond or peanut butter drizzled over a warm slice adds a protein kick, making your breakfast or brunch more filling.
Non-Dairy Milkshake: Blend bananas and almond milk with a dash of vanilla for a delightful drink that doubles down on the flavors of your dessert.
Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a cool contrast to the warm bread while keeping it vegan and gluten-free.
Coffee or Herbal Tea: Brew a cup of your favorite coffee, or a calming herbal tea; both beverages accentuate the comforting comfort of this delicious bread.
Dark Chocolate Chips: A sprinkle of vegan dark chocolate chips on top of warm slices offers a luxurious touch, elevating your treat to a decadent dessert.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread

Use Overripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor; brown spots are your best friend here!
Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread light and tender; mix until just combined.
Check for Doneness Early: Begin checking your bread at 45 minutes; every oven varies, and you want to avoid overbaking.
Customize the Swirl: Feel free to add chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips to the cinnamon swirl for added texture and flavor.
Cool Properly: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its structure.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the banana batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and combining them just before baking. Store the prepared batter in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon swirl mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to bake, layer the batter and swirl mixture in the loaf pan and pop it in the oven for delicious, fresh results that taste just as amazing as if made on the spot!

Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this recipe even more delightful with these fun variations!

Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
Tropical Twist: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor that will whisk your taste buds away. The hint of coconut can take your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread to sunny destinations!
Chocolate Indulgence: Integrate vegan chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, sweet surprise in every slice. This twist is sure to take your bread from good to incredible!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cinnamon swirl for a warm, unexpected heat. Just a dash can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Fruity Burst: Fold in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy texture and bursts of flavor. They complement the sweetness of banana perfectly!
Maple Magic: Drizzle extra maple syrup over the top before baking for an additional touch of sweetness and an attractive glaze post-bake.
Extra Oats: Swap half the flour for additional rolled oats for a heartier bread that’s great for breakfast or snacking. The chewier texture will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
Bread Pudding Delight: Turn leftovers into a delicious bread pudding the next day. Tear the bread into pieces, soak in almond milk and spices, then bake until golden for a delightful dessert!

These variations not only add a unique dimension to your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread but also allow you to tailor it to your personal taste. And if you’re looking for more recipes that keep your baking creative, check out my Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips or some hearty Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a delightful treat! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. The overripe ones are sweeter and provide the moisture needed for a delicious Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread.

How should I store the leftover Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
To keep it fresh, store your leftover Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread?
Yes! Slice the banana bread before freezing it for convenience. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if my bread comes out too dense?
If your Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix just until combined. Additionally, using fresh baking powder and baking soda will help improve the rise, ensuring a fluffy loaf.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure that the baking powder and oats you use are certified gluten-free. If you’re concerned about allergies, it’s always best to double-check label ingredients for any specific allergens.

How long does the cinnamon swirl mixture keep?
The cinnamon swirl mixture is best used immediately after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container. You may need to reheat it slightly to soften it before using.