There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to lazy Sunday mornings, where the promise of a sweet treat lingered in the air. This Cinnamon Roll Cake captures that nostalgia perfectly. It’s a delightful fusion of the classic cinnamon roll and a simple cake, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or special gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or just want a quick solution for dessert, this recipe is your ticket to a warm, comforting slice of happiness.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a game-changer for anyone who loves the warm, sweet flavors of cinnamon rolls but craves the simplicity of a cake. It’s quick to whip up, taking just about 15 minutes of prep time. The taste? Absolutely divine! Each bite is a soft, buttery delight, swirled with cinnamon goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cinnamon Roll Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Baking powder: This leavening agent gives the cake its fluffy rise.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, making the cake tender.
Unsalted butter: Melted for a buttery flavor that brings everything together.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, infusing the cake with that classic cinnamon roll taste.
Brown sugar: Packed for extra moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
For the glaze:
Powdered sugar: Creates a sweet, smooth topping that complements the cake.
Milk: Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
Vanilla extract: A touch in the glaze ties the flavors together beautifully.
For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warm twist. If you’re a fan of cream cheese, swap the powdered sugar glaze for a rich cream cheese frosting made with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Cinnamon Roll Cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. A well-prepared dish is key to a perfect cake!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agent. A good mix will help your cake rise beautifully. Make sure there are no lumps; a smooth batter is what you want!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the whole milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined. The melted butter adds richness, while the eggs help bind the ingredients. This mixture will bring moisture to your Cinnamon Roll Cake, making it tender and delicious.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins!
Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and brown sugar together. This mixture is what gives your cake that signature cinnamon roll flavor. The brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note, enhancing the overall taste. Set this aside; it’s going to be layered into the cake!
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Next, sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This layering creates those delightful swirls!
Step 7: Swirl and Bake
Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. This creates beautiful marbling throughout the cake. Now, pop it into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done!
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. This glaze will add a sweet finish to your Cinnamon Roll Cake. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency; you want it pourable but not too runny!
Step 9: Cool and Drizzle
Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps set the cake. After that, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Watch it soak in and create a sweet, glossy finish. Your cake is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Let the cake cool slightly before glazing for a better finish.
Experiment with spices like nutmeg for added flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for baking the cake; a similar-sized dish works too.
Mixing bowls: Use at least two; any size will do.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; a kitchen scale is a great alternative.
Knife: For swirling the cinnamon mixture; a toothpick can also help.
Variations
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a crunchy texture.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fresh blueberries or sliced apples into the batter for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Lover’s: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk instead of whole milk for a plant-based treat.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Coffee or Tea: Pair with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the flavors.
Presentation: Dust with extra powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful finish.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes for a decadent treat.
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Cake
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking. This Cinnamon Roll Cake is perfect for meal prep!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just reheat a slice in the microwave for a warm treat!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy whenever you crave a slice!
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. This works well in the Cinnamon Roll Cake and keeps it moist!
Can I add more cinnamon to the cake?
Of course! If you love cinnamon, feel free to increase the amount in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with an extra half teaspoon and adjust to your taste!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cinnamon Roll Cake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories. The warm, inviting aroma fills your home, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Each slice is a delightful reminder of simpler times, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee. Whether it’s a special occasion or a regular Tuesday, this cake brings joy to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the sweetness, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your culinary adventures. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
A delicious and easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Cake that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a cake.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and brown sugar together.
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter on top and finish with the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter gently.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before drizzling the glaze over the top.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
If you prefer a cream cheese glaze, substitute the powdered sugar glaze with a mixture of 4 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons milk.
