Best Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe to Try Now

Cinnamon Roll Cake

If you’re craving something soft, gooey, and packed with warm cinnamon goodness, you’re going to love this Cinnamon Roll Cake. This recipe takes all the comfort of a classic cinnamon roll and transforms it into a delightful, easy-to-make cake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With layers of cinnamon-sugar swirls and a luscious glaze, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is guaranteed to become your new favorite treat to share with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples for an easy baking experience everyone can enjoy.
  • Unbeatable Texture: Soft, moist cake with cinnamon swirls that melt in your mouth with every bite.
  • Versatility: Perfect for occasions ranging from casual mornings to holiday celebrations.
  • Quick Preparation: This cake comes together faster than traditional cinnamon rolls, saving you time in the kitchen.
  • Delicious Glaze: Sweet cream cheese or vanilla glaze boosts the flavor and adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Cake is in its straightforward and essential ingredients. Each one brings something special to the mix, creating a balanced flavor and tender crumb that’s hard to resist.

  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure needed for a soft, fluffy cake.
  • Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure a light rise and airy texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the cinnamon swirl.
  • Butter: Infuses richness and moisture throughout the cake.
  • Brown Sugar: Brings a lovely depth and enhances the cinnamon swirl.
  • Cinnamon: The star spice delivering warmth and that signature flavor.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add tenderness.
  • Milk or Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and tender while enhancing flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic complexity.
  • Cream Cheese (optional for glaze): Creates a luscious topping that complements the cinnamon flavors perfectly.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cake

One of the best features of this Cinnamon Roll Cake is how easily you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

  • Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix for a crumb just as tender.
  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs instead of chicken eggs, and dairy-free butter to keep it vegan-friendly.
  • Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Fruit Boost: Stir in raisins or dried cranberries in the cinnamon filling for a burst of sweetness.
  • Spiced Up: Incorporate cardamom or nutmeg alongside cinnamon to deepen the aromatic profile.
Best Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe to Try Now

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by mixing flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and vanilla extract. Gradually combine wet ingredients with the dry until you have a smooth, thick batter.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar with cinnamon and melted butter to make your irresistible cinnamon swirl mixture. This blend will create beautiful layers inside the cake.

Step 3: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the batter into your greased baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl evenly over the batter. Repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon mixture. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter for that signature marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before glazing.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

While the cake cools, prepare a simple glaze with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Drizzle generously over the top for a melty, sweet finish everyone will love.

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
  • Don’t Overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated to avoid a dense cake.
  • Perfect Swirl: Light swirling creates a delicate marbling effect; avoid over-stirring the cinnamon mixture into the batter.
  • Fresh Spices: Use freshly ground cinnamon for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
  • Pan Prep: Grease and flour your baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure clean slices.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake

Garnishes

Top your Cinnamon Roll Cake with chopped nuts, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries also pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of rich coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into squares or wedges and serve on a decorative plate with a cinnamon stick garnish. For parties, create mini servings with ramekins or muffin tins, topped with icing and a pinch of cinnamon for individual delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days, making sure it’s covered well to avoid drying out.

Freezing

Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices of the Cinnamon Roll Cake in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh the soft, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon sugar for the swirl?

Absolutely! Mixing your own cinnamon and sugar lets you adjust sweetness and spice levels to your preference, making the cake truly yours.

What type of pan is best for baking this cake?

A 9×13 inch rectangular baking pan works perfectly, but you can also try a bundt pan for a different shape and presentation.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, simply swap butter for a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk, and prepare a glaze without cream cheese or with vegan cream cheese.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to enjoy.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pans, adjusting baking time slightly depending on thickness.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is a cozy, delicious way to enjoy the flavors you love in a simpler, quicker form. Whether you want to impress brunch guests or treat yourself to a warm morning bite, this cake will become a reliable go-to. Get your ingredients ready, follow these easy steps, and let the irresistible aroma fill your kitchen!

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Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Cake


  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with substitution)

Description

A soft, moist Cinnamon Roll Cake bursting with warm cinnamon-sugar swirls and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. This easy-to-make cake combines the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls baked into a delightful cake perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (freshly ground recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter

Glaze (Optional)

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry until smooth and thick.
  2. Create the Cinnamon Swirl: Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until well combined to form the cinnamon swirl mixture.
  3. Layer the Batter and Swirl: Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly. Pour half of the batter into the pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon swirl. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter, creating a marbled effect without over-mixing.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before glazing.
  5. Add the Glaze: While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by beating together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake for a melty, sweet finish.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter and improved texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter; stir until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense cake.
  • Lightly swirl the cinnamon mixture to create a delicate marbled pattern without over-stirring.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best and most aromatic flavor.
  • Grease and flour the baking pan well to prevent sticking and ensure clean slices.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: cinnamon roll cake, cinnamon swirl cake, breakfast cake, brunch cake, moist cake, cream cheese glaze, easy cinnamon cake

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