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There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen, and these No Knead Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns take that comfort to another level. Imagine waking up to the enticing smells of warm bananas mingling with a hint of cinnamon—it’s the perfect way to embrace a lazy Sunday morning or brighten up a busy weekday breakfast.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe as I was looking to breathe new life into my morning routine, swapping out fast food for something homemade and wholesome. With no kneading required, these buns are a cinch to make and yield an irresistible gooey center topped with velvety brown butter cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a brunch gathering, this crowd-pleaser will have everyone coming back for more. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this mouthwatering adventure!

Why are Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns irresistible?

Irresistible: The rich banana flavor combined with warm cinnamon creates a cozy, comforting delight in every bite.
No-Knead Convenience: Perfect for busy mornings, this simple recipe saves you time without compromising taste.
Gooey Goodness: Enjoy the decadence of a gooey center that melts in your mouth, topped with a luscious glaze that elevates your treat.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re perfect for any occasion and can easily be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough the night before to wake up to fresh bakery-style buns—just like this recipe suggests for a delightful morning surprise!

Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Ingredients

For the Dough

Whole Milk – Provides moisture and rich flavor; substitute with non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise without kneading, creating a light texture with no substitutions needed.
Castor Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; can be swapped with granulated sugar if necessary.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes to the moisture of the dough; try melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
Mashed Bananas – Delivers natural sweetness; overly ripe bananas are best, or use applesauce for a lower-calorie option.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the buns; can use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Baking Powder & Salt – Enhance texture and flavor; no substitutions are needed.

For the Filling

Browned Butter – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; dairy-free butter can be used for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar & Cinnamon Powder – Create a delicious filling with no substitutions.
Sliced Bananas – Adds a fresh burst of flavor and texture; use the same kind of bananas you put in the dough.

For the Glaze

Cream Cheese – Introduces richness and creaminess; cashew cream can be an excellent vegan substitute.
Heavy Cream – Creates a smooth consistency; switch to coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; no substitutions required.

Indulge in these Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns and delight in the ease of this no-knead recipe—perfect for making your mornings a little sweeter!

How to Make Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns

Prepare the Dough: Combine warm milk, castor sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. Next, mix in the vegetable oil and mashed bananas until blended.
Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add all-purpose flour, stirring to form a sticky dough. Don’t worry about it being overly smooth—it’s meant to be slightly sticky! Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour.
Make the Filling: Prepare the filling by browning the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Allow it to cool slightly, then mix it with brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the sliced bananas and mix gently.
Blend the Banana Batter: In a separate bowl, blend the ingredients for the banana batter until smooth. Then, whisk in flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
Assemble the Buns: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling over the dough evenly, then layer the banana batter and sprinkle additional sliced bananas on top. Cut the dough into strips, roll them up, and place them in a greased baking tray. Allow the rolls to rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Buns: Bake your delightful cinnamon buns for approximately 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
Prepare the Glaze: While the buns are baking, whip together cream cheese, heavy cream, and icing sugar in a bowl until smooth. Once the buns are out of the oven, ice them immediately with the glaze and top with extra sliced bananas.

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Variations

Get ready to explore delightful ways to personalize your scrumptious buns with these tempting ideas!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful texture contrast. The nuts pair beautifully with the sweetness of the bananas!
Chocolate Delight: Incorporate semi-sweet chocolate chips into the banana bread batter. The chocolate melts into gooey pockets of bliss—perfect for chocolate lovers.
Spiced Twist: Sprinkle in a dash of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for a warm spiced version. This addition brings a cozy flavor that’s sure to please!
Fruit Fusion: Swap out some of the bananas for pureed apple or pumpkin for a seasonal twist. These fruits add moisture and a unique flavor profile that will surprise your taste buds.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before rolling the dough. The sweet, sticky caramel adds a decadent touch to your gooey cinnamon buns.
Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the batter or filling for a bright citrusy kick. It livens up the flavors beautifully!
Savory Option: For a surprising savory twist, add crumbled bacon or cheese into the filling. This combination offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the buns.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in a pinch of fresh rosemary or thyme with the filling for a hint of herbaceous flavor. This unique addition will give an unexpected depth that elevates the classic cinnamon bun experience.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate after the initial rise. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding with the filling and assembly steps. Additionally, you can make the brown butter filling and glaze a day ahead as well—just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This ensures that everything remains fresh and just as delicious when you finally pop them in the oven for that warm, gooey treat everyone loves!

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns

Fridge: Store your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns in an airtight container for up to one week to keep them fresh and moist.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns for up to two weeks. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, reheat the buns in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.

Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the dough the night before and refrigerating it to save time during busy mornings, ensuring a fluffy and delightful breakfast whenever you need it!

What to Serve with Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns?

Start your day with a carefully crafted meal that complements the sweet and fluffy indulgence of brunch.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bursting with seasonal fruits, this refreshing side brings balance to the sweet cinnamon buns and adds vibrant colors to your table.
Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it’s the ideal accompaniment for these buns, while a dollop of honey or granola adds texture and boosts nutrition.
Coffee or Latte: A warm cup enhances those rich flavors, making each bite even more delightful and inviting, perfect for slow weekend mornings.
Scrambled Eggs: Elevate your breakfast with fluffy eggs; their savory flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon buns for a satisfying meal.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a touch of maple syrup on the buns right before serving for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the banana and cinnamon beautifully.
Homemade Jam: A tart berry jam spreads over the buns creates a delightful balance of flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a fruity twist.

Indulging in these scrumptious buns pairs beautifully with these tantalizing options, creating a memorable experience for any breakfast or brunch gathering!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns

Yeast Check: Always confirm that your instant yeast is active by ensuring the mixture becomes foamy after resting. This is crucial for a successful rise.
Stickiness Solution: If you find the dough is too sticky when rolling out, sprinkle a small amount of flour on your work surface to help with handling.
Rise Time Matters: Allow the dough to rise fully for the best texture. Keep in mind that rising times can fluctuate depending on your kitchen’s temperature.
Ingredient Freshness: For optimal results, use fresh ingredients. Expired yeast or old dairy can affect the texture and flavor of your Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns.
Baking Precision: Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. The buns should be golden brown and fragrant when done.

Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! It’s best to use overly ripe bananas, as they provide the most natural sweetness and flavor. You can tell they are perfect when they have brown spots or are slightly mushy. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag with an apple for a day or two.

How should I store my Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns?
To keep your buns fresh for up to one week, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This prevents them from drying out. If you’re looking to keep them longer, freeze them wrapped individually in plastic wrap and stored in a zip-top freezer bag for up to two weeks.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, first, allow the buns to cool completely. Then, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. Make sure to squeeze out any air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.

Why are my buns dense or not rising properly?
If your buns are dense, it might be due to inactive yeast. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and bubbly after being mixed with warm milk and sugar; this indicates it’s alive. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a warmer spot to aid in rising. Also, check that you allowed enough rising time—1 hour is usually ideal for this recipe.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these buns?
Absolutely! To make these Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns vegan, you can substitute whole milk with non-dairy milk, and use dairy-free butter and cashew cream for the glaze. If allergies are a concern, ensure to check for cross-contamination with gluten if using a gluten-free flour blend. Always use fresh ingredients to avoid triggering any adverse reactions.

Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes! For a delightful fresh-baked breakfast with minimal morning effort, prepare the dough the night before. Simply let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, you can roll and bake them straight away for freshly baked Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns without the wait!