There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and bananas wafting through the kitchen.
This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is my cozy go-to whenever I crave a tender loaf with nostalgic sweetness and a gooey swirl of cinnamon sugar.
And the best part? It’s completely vegan—yet nobody ever notices!
Why I Love This Recipe
This loaf feels like a warm hug in food form.
It blends everything I love about banana bread with the decadence of a cinnamon roll.
The swirled top gets slightly caramelized in the oven, and that tangy vegan cream cheese frosting takes it over the top.
Whether I’m sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo with tea, this is always a win.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Overripe bananas – bring natural sweetness and moisture.
Vegan butter – keeps it soft and rich without dairy.
Maple syrup – a warm, cozy sweetener.
Rolled oats – add texture and hearty bite.
Cinnamon swirl – brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter swirl right in.
Vegan cream cheese frosting – tangy, creamy topping that mimics a classic cinnamon roll glaze.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Let your bananas get super spotty—they’re sweeter and easier to mash.
Don’t overmix the batter once the flour goes in—gentle folding is key for a fluffy texture.
Use a metal loaf pan for even baking and a lightly crisp crust.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a metal loaf pan with nonstick spray or vegan butter.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large bowl, mash the bananas using a fork.
Stir in the melted vegan butter, maple syrup, almond or oat milk, vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add in the flour and rolled oats, mixing gently until a thick batter forms.
Step 3: Add the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine melted vegan butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the swirl mixture.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Drizzle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top, then use a spoon or knife to gently fold it in to create a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Step 5: Frost
While the bread cools slightly, whisk together melted vegan butter, powdered sugar, and vegan cream cheese until smooth.
Drizzle the frosting over the loaf while still slightly warm.
What to Serve It With
Pair this loaf with a cup of oat milk latte or warm chai tea for the ultimate cozy experience.
I also love it alongside fresh fruit for brunch.
Variations / Substitutions
Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Extra cinnamon kick: Double the swirl mixture for an even more decadent flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store the loaf covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that warm, cinnamon roll magic.
FAQs
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes! Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before serving.
Can I skip the cream cheese frosting?
Absolutely—it’s still delicious without, though the frosting adds that classic cinnamon roll touch.
Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
Melted coconut oil works fine in both the batter and swirl.
Can I reduce the maple syrup?
You can try reducing by ¼ cup, but it may affect moisture and sweetness slightly.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes—just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
What’s the best plant milk for this recipe?
I love unsweetened almond or oat milk for their neutral taste and smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread is everything I want in a loaf: moist, sweet, warmly spiced, and just indulgent enough to feel special.
It’s become one of my favorite weekend baking rituals—easy enough for a casual afternoon, impressive enough to share.
One bite, and you’ll see why this loaf keeps disappearing fast in my house.
Cinnamon Roll Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a metal loaf pan with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, mash bananas.
- Stir in melted butter, maple syrup, plant milk, vanilla, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add flour and oats, mix until batter forms.
- Pour batter into the pan. Mix swirl ingredients in a bowl and drizzle over batter.
- Swirl gently with a spoon.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, until golden and toothpick comes out clean.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/cinnamon-roll-banana-bread/
Notes
- Let the loaf cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing—it helps hold its shape.
- For a stronger cinnamon swirl, double the cinnamon mixture and swirl deeper.
- Use ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for best flavor and moisture.
