Cinnamon Roll Cake brings the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into a simpler, single-layer cake format. Inspired by the gooey, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls, this cake offers an easier, more accessible approach to achieving that comforting taste without the hassle of rolling and proofing dough. Imagine a fluffy, moist cake with a swirl of buttery cinnamon sugar running through it, topped with a luscious vanilla glaze. It’s like enjoying a cinnamon roll but with less prep and a faster baking process.

Perfect for any occasion, Cinnamon Roll Cake is versatile enough to serve as a breakfast treat, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a decadent dessert. With its straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers who want a quick but impressive homemade cake that captures the essence of cinnamon rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a perfect blend of ease and indulgence, offering all the rich, spiced flavors of classic cinnamon rolls without the time-consuming steps. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, which require rolling, shaping, and waiting for dough to rise, this cake is quick to prepare with just a few simple steps. You can have it in the oven in minutes, making it a fantastic option for when you want a cozy, homemade treat without the fuss.

The cake’s gooey cinnamon-sugar topping, marbled into a soft, moist cake, is irresistibly delicious. A layer of rich vanilla glaze drizzled over the warm cake adds the perfect finishing touch, creating a flavor combination that’s comforting and satisfying. This cake’s versatility shines through as well—it’s delightful as a breakfast treat, pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, and makes a lovely dessert. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this Cinnamon Roll Cake fits any occasion.

Ingredients Overview

The ingredients in Cinnamon Roll Cake come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Each element serves a specific purpose, from building the cake’s structure to infusing it with warmth and sweetness.

Bottom Layer Ingredients

Flour: Forms the foundation of the cake, providing structure and support for the other ingredients.
Milk: Adds moisture to the batter, resulting in a tender, fluffy crumb.
Sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its golden color as it bakes.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide richness, giving the cake a soft texture.
Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake rise and become light and airy.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth, warmth, and an inviting aroma to the cake’s flavor.
Salt: Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor balance in the cake.
Butter (melted): Adds richness and a smooth texture to the cake, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

Top Layer Ingredients

Butter (softened): Creates a rich, smooth topping that melts into the cake for added moisture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Flour: Thickens the topping slightly to help it hold its shape when swirled.
Cinnamon: Provides the cake’s signature warm, spicy flavor and fragrant aroma.

Glaze Ingredients

Confectioners’ Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze that complements the cinnamon flavor.
Milk: Helps to thin the glaze to the right consistency for drizzling.
Vanilla Extract: Adds an extra layer of warmth and sweetness to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make a delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake, combining the best parts of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a single-layer cake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easy to remove once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients for the cake base: 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of white sugar, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together until evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: 1½ cups of milk, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter. Finally, add ¼ cup of melted butter to the batter and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Topping

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Using a fork or mixer, blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a gooey, spiced topping that melts into the cake.

Step 4: Create the Swirl Effect

Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon topping evenly over the cake batter in the pan. Using a knife, gently swirl the topping into the batter to create a marbled effect. Avoid over-mixing, as you want to keep distinct swirls of cinnamon throughout the cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out with a few moist crumbs (not completely clean), indicating that the cake is soft and tender without being underbaked. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by combining 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 5 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and lump-free. The glaze should be thick but pourable; if it’s too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top. Let it spread over the surface, seeping into the cake slightly for added moisture and flavor. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake warm for the best flavor and texture!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake

Achieving the perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake is simple with a few handy tips. These will help ensure that your cake has the ideal texture, flavor, and presentation.

Soft Butter

For the cinnamon topping, it’s essential to use softened, but not melted, butter. To soften butter quickly without melting it, cut it into small cubes and leave it at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, place it between sheets of parchment paper and press gently with a rolling pin to soften it evenly. Softened butter blends more smoothly with brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a rich, gooey topping.

Swirling Technique

To achieve a beautiful marbled effect without over-mixing, use a butter knife or a skewer to swirl the cinnamon topping into the cake batter. Insert the knife into the batter and move it in a gentle, S-shaped motion. Avoid over-swirling, as this can cause the cinnamon mixture to blend too much with the batter, losing the distinct swirls.

Glaze Consistency

The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. Start with the recommended amount of milk, and add extra milk in small amounts if needed to reach your desired thickness. If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk slightly. A well-balanced glaze will coat the cake without pooling excessively.

Storage Tips

To keep the cake fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore the cake’s soft, gooey texture. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Variations and Substitutions

Cinnamon Roll Cake is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to dietary preferences or flavor additions. Here are some popular variations and substitutions to make it your own.

Dairy-Free Options

For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice. This simple swap keeps the cake moist and flavorful while accommodating those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Lower Sugar Version

To make a lighter, lower-sugar cake, reduce the amount of white sugar in the batter by a third or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Opting for coconut sugar instead of brown sugar in the topping can also add a natural sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.

Add-ins

Elevate the flavor and texture by incorporating add-ins like chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the batter or cinnamon topping. For an indulgent twist, try adding a layer of cream cheese filling by blending softened cream cheese with a little sugar and vanilla, then layering it over the batter before adding the cinnamon swirl.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

To make this cake gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This ensures the cake retains its structure and fluffiness, allowing everyone to enjoy this cinnamon roll-inspired treat!

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Serve it warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, indulgent dessert. The cool, creamy additions complement the warm, gooey cake, enhancing its flavors and making each bite even more satisfying.

For a lighter, fresher pairing, add a side of fresh fruit like berries or apple slices, which balance the cake’s sweetness with a hint of tartness.

This cake is also an ideal companion to a hot beverage. Pair it with a cup of coffee, espresso, or latte for a cozy, café-style treat that brings out the cake’s warm cinnamon notes. Alternatively, enjoy it with a soothing cup of tea, like chai or black tea, which complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, Cinnamon Roll Cake can be made ahead of time and stored for a day or two without losing its flavor or texture. Bake the cake, let it cool completely, and cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. You can glaze it right before serving to keep the topping fresh.

How do I store cinnamon roll cake?

To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days. Ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze cinnamon roll cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake for up to three months. After baking, let the cake cool completely and avoid glazing it until after it’s thawed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. To serve, let it thaw at room temperature and add the glaze once it’s fully defrosted.

What other glaze flavors can I use?

While vanilla glaze is classic, you can experiment with other flavors. Try adding a hint of almond extract for a nutty twist or swap in maple extract for a cozy, autumnal flavor. A cream cheese glaze also works well for added richness.

Why did my cake turn out dry?

If your cake turned out dry, it may have been overbaked. To avoid this, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick after 25 minutes of baking; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense and dry.

What’s the best way to reheat this cake?

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will restore the cake’s soft, moist texture. For a larger portion, you can warm the cake in an oven set at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Adding a fresh drizzle of glaze after reheating can enhance the flavor.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of Cinnamon Roll Cake contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. Each slice is rich in carbohydrates and fats, offering a balance of sweetness from the sugar and brown sugar topping, along with the richness of butter. The cake also provides a small amount of protein from the eggs and milk.

Healthier Adjustments

To create a lighter version of this cake, consider reducing the sugar by one-third or using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber, which helps balance the cake’s sweetness and adds a bit more nutrition. Replacing regular milk with a low-fat or plant-based milk can also reduce calorie count slightly, while using a reduced-fat butter or oil substitute can cut back on fat content without compromising texture.

These small adjustments can help make this cake a bit more health-conscious without sacrificing its delicious flavor and texture.

Cinnamon Roll Cake

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