The first time I pulled a tray of fluffy cinnamon buns from the oven, the sweet aroma of baked bananas and spices filled my kitchen, instantly brightening my day. These Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns are not just a delight to the senses; they’re a fantastic way to elevate any brunch gathering or cozy breakfast at home. Imagine sinking your teeth into soft, pillowy rolls swirled with warm cinnamon butter and drizzled with a luscious brown butter cream cheese glaze.
What makes these buns even more appealing is that they require no kneading—just a bit of mixing and some patience as they rise! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is open to interpretation, inviting you to make it your own. Want to sneak in some extra bananas? Go ahead! Or perhaps some walnuts for a delightful crunch? The possibilities are endless! Let’s dive into this easy, no-knead recipe that promises to wow everyone at your table.
Why are Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns a Must-Try?
Irresistibly delicious, these Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns offer a unique twist on classic flavors that everyone loves. No kneading required—with just mixing and rising, they’re perfect for bakers of all levels. Soft and fluffy, the buns are filled with gooey cinnamon butter and glazed to perfection, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Versatile for customization, feel free to add extra nuts or spices! Finally, they’re ideal for brunch or dessert, ensuring they’ll be a hit at your next gathering—or just for a cozy breakfast at home!
Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful flavors of these Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns with the following ingredients!
For the Dough
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the dough; swap with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Instant Yeast – Provides leavening without needing kneading; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Castor Sugar – Sweetens the dough nicely; can be substituted with granulated sugar if needed.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps the dough moist; consider using melted coconut oil for a subtle flavor twist.
- Mashed Bananas – Infuses flavor and moisture; opt for ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the buns; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier version.
- Baking Powder – An extra leavening agent that helps the dough rise.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Filling
- Brown Butter – Adds a nutty richness to the filling; regular butter can be used if preferred.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling and pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Cinnamon Powder – Offers essential warmth and flavor; using fresh cinnamon will elevate the taste.
- Sliced Bananas – Adds delightful layers of flavor within the buns; extra ripe bananas work best.
For the Banana Bread Batter
- Egg – Binds the banana bread batter; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Yogurt – Contributes moisture and a slight tang; swap with non-dairy yogurt if desired.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the buns.
For the Glaze
- Icing Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and provides a smooth texture; essential for that delicious finish.
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the glaze; use half-and-half for a lighter option.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious batch of Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns that are sure to impress!
How to Make Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns
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Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm milk, castor sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. Stir in vegetable oil and mashed bananas, then gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Once the dough has risen, gently incorporate the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough is formed, and do not overwork it.
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Make Filling: In a small pan, brown the butter on low heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and mix it with brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and sliced bananas until well combined.
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Prepare Banana Bread Batter: In a mixing bowl, blend ripe bananas, egg, yogurt, melted butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, gently combine with the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Assemble Rolls: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, followed by a layer of banana bread batter and additional banana slices. Cut the dough into strips and carefully roll each strip into a bun. Place them in a greased 9×13 baking tray.
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Final Rise: Cover the tray with a kitchen towel and let the buns rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
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Make Glaze: While the buns are baking, mix cream cheese, icing sugar, heavy cream, and browned butter until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the warm buns as soon as they come out of the oven, garnishing with additional banana slices if desired.
Optional: Serve warm with a cup of coffee for a delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it overnight, which allows the flavors to deepen. Simply follow the first two steps of the recipe and store the mixed dough in a covered bowl in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature, then proceed with rolling and filling. You can also make the filling ahead and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best results, bake the buns fresh to preserve their fluffy texture—just glaze them right after they come out of the oven for maximum indulgence!
Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Variations
Feel free to make these Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Nut-Free: Replace walnuts or any nuts with oats or seeds for added texture and a nut-free version.
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Vegan: Use almond milk, a flax egg, and non-dairy yogurt to create a fully vegan-friendly bun without sacrificing flavor!
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Chocolate Lover’s: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a scrumptious chocolate and banana combo that everyone will adore.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while enjoying the same fluffy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger in the filling to introduce a warm, spicy note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Extra Fruity: Consider adding additional layers of fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries in the filling for a fruity and vibrant surprise.
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Maple Glaze: Swap the icing sugar in the glaze for pure maple syrup for a lovely caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buns.
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Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling or as a topping for a tropical twist that adds an unexpected texture and flavor!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns?
These delightful cinnamon buns are perfect for creating a memorable meal experience, whether for a cozy breakfast or a festive brunch.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant berries and tropical fruits brightens the table, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the buns.
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Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy eggs offer a savory element that perfectly balances the sweet flavor of the cinnamon buns. This classic breakfast pairing never goes out of style!
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Maple Bacon: The smokiness and saltiness of crispy bacon complement the sweet, gooey buns beautifully, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite brew enhances the experience, allowing the aromatic flavors of the buns to shine through. Pairing with a smooth latte or herbal tea can elevate your breakfast to a café-like experience.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layers of creamy yogurt, granola, and some additional banana slices make a delightful side. This adds texture and a slight tang that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet buns.
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Honey Butter Spread: A side of honey butter offers a deliciously sweet and creamy addition that can be drizzled over each bun, amplifying the flavor and making it truly unforgettable.
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Chocolate Milk: For a fun twist, serve with chocolate milk. The rich chocolate complements the flavors of the buns, creating a dessert-like breakfast experience that’s sure to please kids and adults alike!
These options ensure that your morning is deliciously satisfying, making it a brunch to remember.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns
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Check Your Yeast: Always ensure your instant yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam after mixing with warm milk and sugar, it may be expired.
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Flour Adjustments: If your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour gradually while rolling it out. Keep it manageable for easy shaping.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense buns.
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Rise Times Matter: Rising times can vary based on your kitchen’s temperature. Warmer environments will speed up the process, so keep an eye on your dough!
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Make-ahead Option: For convenience, prepare the dough the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
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Use Ripe Bananas: Opt for extra ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor in your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns
- Room Temperature: Keep any leftover buns at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to maintain their moist and fluffy texture.
- Fridge: If you need to store your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns for a longer period, place them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: For even longer storage, wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
- Reheating: To enjoy your buns warm, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds or pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use?
Opt for ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots! The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be. This ensures your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns have that delightful, rich banana taste. If you have overripe bananas, now is the perfect time to put them to use!
How should I store my leftover buns?
To keep your leftover Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Simply ensure they are well wrapped to maintain their moist texture.
Can I freeze these cinnamon buns?
Absolutely! Wrap your cinnamon buns tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for about 30 seconds for a warm treat. You can also reheat them in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky when rolling it out, don’t worry! You can gradually sprinkle in a little extra all-purpose flour, one tablespoon at a time, while folding the dough. This will help you achieve a workable consistency without compromising the fluffiness of the buns. Just be cautious—too much flour can lead to dense buns.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make it vegan! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens). Use non-dairy yogurt and almond milk instead of dairy milk, and opt for a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze. Enjoy your delicious vegan Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns just as much!
Can I add mix-ins to the dough or filling?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to personalize your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns by adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, walnuts, or chocolate chips in the filling. This adds a delightful crunch and additional flavor that complements the soft texture beautifully. Just be sure not to overcrowd them to keep that signature soft and fluffy texture!
Irresistible Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, castor sugar, and instant yeast. Allow it to sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in vegetable oil and mashed bananas, then gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, gently incorporate the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough is formed.
- In a small pan, brown the butter on low heat until fragrant. Remove from heat and mix it with brown sugar, cinnamon powder, and sliced bananas until well combined.
- In a mixing bowl, blend ripe bananas, egg, yogurt, melted butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently combine with the dry ingredients.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cinnamon filling over the dough, followed by a layer of banana bread batter and additional banana slices.
- Cut the dough into strips and carefully roll each strip into a bun. Place them in a greased 9x13 baking tray.
- Cover the tray with a kitchen towel and let the buns rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
- While the buns are baking, mix cream cheese, icing sugar, heavy cream, and browned butter until smooth.
- Drizzle this glaze over the warm buns as soon as they come out of the oven.