Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

If you love the flavors of warm cinnamon rolls but don’t have the time to make them from scratch, this Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is your perfect solution! Combining the fluffy, moist texture of a classic cake with the rich, gooey swirls of cinnamon filling and a sweet glaze on top, this cake is a delightful treat that will please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a unique dessert or a comforting breakfast option, this Cinnamon Roll Cake has got you covered.

Why You Will Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The cake itself is soft and tender, with a buttery flavor that perfectly complements the sweet and slightly spiced cinnamon filling. The final touch – a luscious vanilla glaze – adds the perfect amount of sweetness, making each bite absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve warm for breakfast or as a decadent dessert!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cake

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted and slightly cooled

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ¾ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (1 1/2 sticks)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation for Cinnamon Roll Cake

1. Making the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray (preferably one that contains flour for extra protection against sticking).

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, white granulated sugar, and baking powder. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk, and mix until all ingredients are just combined. Gradually pour in the melted butter while mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix – you want a smooth batter, but overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Once the batter is ready, pour it into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

2. Creating the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

To make the delicious cinnamon swirl filling, mix together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until well combined and smooth.

Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cinnamon filling mixture all over the top of the cake batter. Take a butter knife and gently swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter, creating a beautiful marble effect. Be sure not to over-swirl; you want distinct, delicious cinnamon pockets throughout the cake.

3. Baking the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick into the center of the cake – it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the cake dry. Let the cake cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven.

4. Glazing the Cinnamon Roll Cake

While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable; if you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar, or add more milk for a thinner consistency.

Pour the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the nooks and crannies. You can serve the cake warm or at room temperature, but letting it cool slightly will make it easier to slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Be careful not to overmix the cake batter once the flour is added. This can result in a tough, rubbery texture.
2. Skipping the Swirl: Don’t forget to swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter. This step creates those delicious cinnamon pockets that make this cake so special.
3. Overbaking the Cake: Keep a close eye on your baking time. Every oven is different, so check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For an inviting presentation, serve slices of Cinnamon Roll Cake on a decorative plate or cake stand. Pair it with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful treat. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of additional glaze to elevate the visual appeal.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cake

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep the cake fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To enjoy it later, thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon filling for added crunch.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
• Healthier Options: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or replace some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

FAQ about Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

• Can I use unsalted butter? Yes, but add a pinch of salt to both the cake batter and the cinnamon filling to balance the flavors.
• Can I make this cake gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• How do I know when the cake is done? Insert a toothpick or knife into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
• Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it. Add the glaze just before serving to keep it fresh and moist.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time! Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this one!

Print