Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warm cinnamon rolls but want something quick, easy, and irresistibly shareable, then this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine the sweet swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar melting right into a tender, buttery cake, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that’s simply sublime. It’s everything you love about a cinnamon roll but in a cake form that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. This recipe delivers all the nostalgia with less fuss, making it a total winner for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, pantry-friendly, and each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color we all crave.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure, creating a soft yet sturdy crumb.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a perfectly fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness without overpowering.
• 2/3 cup milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 2 large eggs: Give the cake richness and help bind everything together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and a fragrant warmth to the batter.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Delivers buttery goodness and moistness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: For the cinnamon swirl, providing caramel notes and sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills the cake with warm, cozy flavor.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Combines with the cinnamon-sugar to create a smooth swirl.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Used to make a sweet, silky glaze topping.
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle vanilla punch to the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan to keep your cake from sticking and ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until everything is combined evenly—this helps the cake rise uniformly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and glossy, setting the stage for a tender cake base.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones, stirring gently to avoid overmixing, which keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Melted Butter

Fold in the melted butter until the batter is smooth and silky—it’s this step that brings that rich, buttery taste your taste buds crave.

Step 6: Pour Batter and Create Cinnamon Swirl

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Then mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together with softened butter until smooth, dollop over the batter, and gently swirl using a butter knife or toothpick to marbled perfection.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable, ready to give your cake that signature warm finish.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch

Once out of the oven, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes—then drizzle the glaze evenly over the top and let it set slightly before slicing.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To take this cake over the top, consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans, a light dusting of cinnamon, or even a few plump raisins right after glazing to add texture and extra flavor layers.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a fresh fruit salad, or a steaming mug of coffee or chai tea, making your brunch or breakfast spread feel like a special occasion.

Creamy Ways to Present

Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or swirl a bit of cream cheese frosting over individual slices for a luscious dessert twist everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze slices wrapped carefully in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven until just heated through to enjoy that fresh-baked feel again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for this Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe’s texture, but you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends, keeping in mind they might alter the crumb slightly.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the swirl and cake, and your Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe will still turn out delicious.

Can I make the cinnamon swirl without butter?

The butter adds richness and helps create that beautiful marbled effect, but you can try using a neutral oil or coconut oil as a substitute, though results may vary.

How thick should the cinnamon swirl be distributed?

Dollop the cinnamon mixture in small spoonfuls evenly across the batter and swirl gently; too much stirring could blend it too much and lose the signature swirl appearance.

What’s the best way to ensure the glaze isn’t too runny?

Start with less milk when mixing your glaze, adding a few drops at a time until you achieve a drizzle consistency—thicker glaze will hold beautifully on top without soaking in immediately.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is truly a gem in the kitchen—simple ingredients, ease of preparation, and all the warm cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls delivered in a charming, shareable cake. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, it’s a recipe that invites smiles and seconds alike. Give it a try soon, and watch it become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

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