Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

If there’s any dessert that instantly brings comfort and joy, it has to be this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe. Imagine all the cinnamon-spiced goodness of your favorite cinnamon rolls but in an easy-to-make cake form that’s perfect for sharing. Soft, tender cake bathed in a swirl of cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious glaze captures everything you love from a cinnamon roll without the fuss. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or an effortless dessert, this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe will soon become your go-to for sweet cravings that feel like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe, you’ll use simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role from the fluffy cake base to the melty cinnamon swirl and that irresistible glaze on top.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the soft, tender foundation of the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just enough for balanced flavor.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
• 1 cup whole milk: Gives a smooth, creamy texture to the cake.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with warm, homey aroma.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Used in the cinnamon swirl to add deep caramel notes.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that creates that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened: Blended into the cinnamon swirl for melty pockets of flavor.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for a sweet, smooth glaze topping.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzle consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds extra warmth to the glaze.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Kick off this delightful recipe by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, grease a 9 by 13-inch baking pan generously to ensure your cake slides right out after baking.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients create the structure and sweetness of your cake base, so make sure they’re well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, blend the melted butter, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture brings richness and moisture, setting the stage for a tender crumb in your cake.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop when you no longer see dry patches. The batter should be smooth and ready to embrace the cinnamon swirl.

Step 5: Add the Batter to Your Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Think of this as your blank canvas for that signature cinnamon swirl magic.

Step 6: Make and Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until combined into a spreadable cinnamon swirl topping. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cinnamon through the cake, creating beautiful ribbons of spice.

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is delightfully golden.

Step 8: Whip Up the Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This glaze will be the perfect finishing touch that drips over every slice with sweet charm.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, letting it cascade into every swirl and nook.

Step 10: Serve Warm and Enjoy

This Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe truly shines when served warm, allowing all the flavors to meld and the glaze to melt slightly into the cake. Grab a fork and savor each buttery, cinnamon-streaked bite!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft cake. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries also bring a pop of color and extra freshness to your slices.

Side Dishes

This cake goes hand-in-hand with a steaming mug of coffee or chai tea for a perfect morning treat. If you’re serving it as dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream elevates it even further.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into small squares and stacking them on a dessert platter for parties. Alternatively, place a square on a pretty plate alongside a drizzle of salted caramel sauce to turn this humble cake into a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. It’s best enjoyed within this time to keep it moist and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooled cake wrapped securely in foil and placed in a freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10 minutes. This helps revive that freshly baked softness and melty glaze feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk in this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% milk or even a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The cake might be slightly less rich, but still delicious.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. The texture might be a tiny bit different but the flavor will remain wonderfully cinnamon-rich.

Can I prepare the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the cinnamon swirl ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before swirling into your batter so it’s easier to spread.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar for the glaze?

Powdered sugar gives the glaze its smooth look, but you could try honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweet drizzle. It won’t be as thick but still tasty.

How do I know when this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is one of those sweet finds that makes baking at home feel so rewarding and cozy. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and irresistible flavor all come together in a cake that’s perfect for sharing or simply treating yourself. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be a dessert you return to again and again for that blissful cinnamon roll experience in cake form.

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