Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe – Perfect Homemade Treat

Love the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but don’t want to deal with all the rolling and kneading? A cinnamon roll cake is the perfect solution! This decadent dessert combines all the best parts of a cinnamon roll—sweet, spiced swirls and rich glaze—into an easy-to-make cake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake Batter

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Tools Required

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula or butter knife
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the milk, eggs, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Creating the Cinnamon Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture onto the batter.
3. Use a butter knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Baking the Cake

1. Bake the cake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly on a cooling rack.

Adding the Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, letting it soak into the crevices.

Tips for the Best Results

Achieving a Moist and Fluffy Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Ensuring a Perfect Cinnamon Swirl

• Use a gentle hand when swirling to avoid blending the cinnamon mixture into the batter completely.

Variations and Customizations

Adding Nuts or Raisins

• Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins into the cinnamon mixture for added texture and flavor.

Using Cream Cheese Glaze

• Replace the traditional glaze with a cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

When and How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake

• Serve warm as a breakfast treat or let it cool for a delightful dessert.

Perfect Pairings for This Dessert

• Pair with a steaming cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced chai for a cozy experience.

Storage Tips

Keeping the Cake Fresh

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.

Fun Facts About Cinnamon Rolls

History of the Cinnamon Roll

• Cinnamon rolls originated in Sweden, where they are known as “kanelbullar,” and are often enjoyed with coffee during fika.

Different Variations Across Cultures

• In the U.S., cinnamon rolls are often topped with cream cheese frosting, while in Germany, they are smaller and less sweet.

Conclusion

This cinnamon roll cake is everything you love about cinnamon rolls, made even easier! It’s soft, sweet, and loaded with cinnamon goodness, perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving it to guests or treating yourself, it’s sure to be a hit.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

What kind of cinnamon is best?

Ceylon cinnamon is milder and sweeter, while Cassia cinnamon offers a bolder flavor. Choose based on your preference.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13-inch pans for a bigger batch.