How to Make the Best Cinnamon Roll Cake

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the gooey, cinnamon-swirled delight of a classic cinnamon roll with the ease and comfort of cake, you’re in for a treat. This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is the ultimate way to enjoy rich cinnamon flavor baked to perfection with soft, fluffy layers and topped with luscious frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a special treat, this cake offers irresistible cinnamon goodness that’s perfect for sharing and savoring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together quickly for a delicious result.
• Perfect texture: Soft, tender cake base with gooey cinnamon swirls that surprise every bite.
• Decadent frosting: Creamy topping balances the warm spices with just the right sweetness.
• Versatile dessert: Great for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting after-dinner treat.
• Impressive yet easy: Looks fancy but is beginner-friendly and stress-free to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cinnamon Roll Cake lies in the perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a specific role in creating that moist texture, rich cinnamon flavor, and beautiful golden color you’ll love from the first bite to the last crumb.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the ideal structure and tender crumb for the cake layers.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential for a light, fluffy rise in the batter.
• Sugar and brown sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and deep caramel notes to the cinnamon swirls.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps develop a tender texture in both cake and filling.
• Milk and eggs: Create moisture and contribute to the cake’s soft consistency.
• Cinnamon and spices: Ground cinnamon is the star for that iconic flavor, with optional hints of nutmeg or cloves for warmth.
• Cream cheese and powdered sugar: Combine for the luscious frosting that contrasts perfectly with the spiced cake.

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a wonderfully flexible recipe. Whether you want to accommodate dietary needs or add unexpected twists, it’s easy to customize and experiment with flavors.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with sensitivities.
• Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacers to make the cake dairy and egg-free.
• Add nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirls for extra crunch and flavor.
• Fruit topping: Top with thinly sliced apples or pears for a fruity variation that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Spice it up: Increase cinnamon or add cardamom and ginger for a bolder, spicier profile.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by mixing the dry ingredients including flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then alternate adding the milk and dry ingredients until everything is just combined, creating a smooth batter.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Filling

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until fully combined. This mixture will create the iconic gooey cinnamon swirls inside the cake. Set this aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake Layers

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Drizzle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top and gently swirl it with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven (usually 350°F/175°C) for about 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as the cinnamon swirls keep parts of the cake moist and gooey.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This frosting best complements the warm spices and soft texture of the cake.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the cake reaches room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet cinnamon bliss!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Cake

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a tender crumb.
• Don’t over-swirl the cinnamon filling: Light swirls keep distinct cinnamon pockets rather than blending into the whole batter.
• Check doneness carefully: Because of the sugary swirl, a toothpick may come out slightly sticky but not wet.
• Cool completely before frosting: Avoid melting the frosting by letting the cake cool thoroughly.
• Experiment with pan size: A 9×13 pan works best for the right thickness and cooking time.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra cinnamon or add chopped toasted nuts on top of the frosting to add a bit of texture and visual appeal. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also make it look irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples pairs beautifully to add a fresh, bright counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Cinnamon Roll Cake into squares or fun shapes using cookie cutters for parties or gift-giving. Layer smaller pieces with whipped cream and fresh fruit to make a gorgeous trifle or parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

Wrap the cake securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes to revive that freshly-baked softness and melt the frosting slightly for an indulgent treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting is classic, but a simple vanilla glaze or buttercream also pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavors.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute with white granulated sugar plus a teaspoon of molasses or maple syrup to replicate the deeper sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is designed to be easy, with straightforward steps that even novice bakers can follow confidently.

Can I make this cake into cupcakes?

Definitely! Just fill muffin tins about two-thirds full for about 18-20 minutes of baking time, and swirl the cinnamon filling similarly.

How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking?

Gently swirl the cinnamon filling just on the surface to avoid it fully sinking. The batter’s texture helps keep the swirls suspended as it bakes.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is truly a warm hug in dessert form. It effortlessly brings together beloved cinnamon roll flavors with the simplicity and convenience of a cake that everyone will ask for again and again. So grab your ingredients, have fun swirling that cinnamon goodness, and get ready for a slice of pure happiness!

Related Posts

• How to Make the Perfect Sock It To Me Cake
• How to Perfect Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies
• Why Buckeye Brownie Cookies Are Irresistible

Print