Cinnamon Roll Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the gooey, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls but don't want to deal with the hassle of rolling dough, this cinnamon roll cake is your solution! The cake is moist, fluffy, and packed with all the cinnamon and sugar flavor you crave, while the vanilla glaze ties it all together perfectly. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup white granulated sugar

• 4 teaspoons baking powder

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups milk

• ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)

For the cinnamon filling:

• ¾ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (1 ½ sticks)

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 5 Tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray (preferably one with flour).

2. In a large bowl (or using your stand mixer), combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until just combined.

3. While your mixer is running, slowly add the melted butter, mixing until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to ensure the cake remains tender.

4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon to create the cinnamon filling.

6. Spoon the cinnamon mixture in dollops over the cake batter.

7. Using a butter knife, swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter to create a marbled effect.

8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

9. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner glaze.

10. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, but letting it cool slightly will make it easier to slice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon filling.

• Cream cheese glaze: If you love the tangy flavor of cream cheese, swap the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese frosting. Simply beat together 4 oz of cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and a splash of vanilla extract.

• Spiced up version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon filling for a spiced twist.

• Chocolate cinnamon roll cake: For a chocolatey variation, add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cake batter or drizzle melted chocolate along with the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Be sure to cover it tightly to keep it moist.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds or warm the entire cake in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter for the cake?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter for the cake and cinnamon filling, but you may need to add a pinch of salt to maintain the flavor balance.

2. Can I freeze the cinnamon roll cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes after thawing.

3. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Can I use a different type of milk?

You can substitute any type of milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, for the cow's milk in this recipe.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature or in the fridge. Just drizzle the glaze over it right before serving.

6. Can I add raisins or other fruits to this cake?

While this recipe is traditionally made without fruits, you could fold in raisins or diced apples for an added twist.

7. How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Be careful not to overbake the cake. Check for doneness with a toothpick or knife inserted into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done.

8. Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if needed.

9. Can I skip the glaze?

While the glaze adds sweetness and flavor, you can skip it if you prefer a less sweet cake. The cinnamon swirl filling will still add plenty of flavor.

10. What size baking dish should I use?

A 9x13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe. It provides the right amount of space for the cake to rise and bake evenly.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but wants a simpler, quicker alternative. With a soft, fluffy cake base, a cinnamon-swirled filling, and a sweet vanilla glaze, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with variations to suit your taste. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake is sure to be a hit!

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