This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. It combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the lightness of cake.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s topped with a sweet vanilla icing that brings everything together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With just one bowl and simple steps, anyone can whip up this delicious cake.
- Irresistible Flavor – Enjoy the classic taste of cinnamon rolls in every bite without the hassle of rolling dough.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve it warm for breakfast or let it cool for a delightful dessert; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time! This cake stays fresh and tasty for days, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this treat; it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Cinnamon Roll Cake, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
- Whisk – Perfect for blending eggs, sugar, and other ingredients smoothly.
- Baking dish – Ensures even baking, giving your cake a perfect texture every time.
Ingredients
This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake dessert has all the flavor of a cinnamon roll but in an easy cake with a vanilla icing drizzled on top!
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 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 3/4 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 5 Tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup white granulated sugar
3. 4 teaspoons baking powder
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1. 2 large eggs
2. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3. 1 1/2 cups milk
4. Add in the melted butter gradually while stirring until combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix:
1. 3/4 cup softened butter
2. 1 cup brown sugar
3. 2 tablespoons flour
4. 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Step 7: Layer Cake Mixture
Add half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish evenly.
Step 8: Swirl in Cinnamon Mixture
Spoon dollops of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter and swirl gently with a knife.
Step 9: Add Remaining Batter
Spread the remaining cake batter over the swirl mixture carefully.
Step 10: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 11: Prepare Icing
While baking, whisk together:
1. 2 cups powdered sugar
2. 5 tablespoons milk
3. Add in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 12: Drizzle Icing
Once baked, allow cooling slightly before drizzling with icing while still warm.
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake, perfect for any gathering or just as a sweet treat at home!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake
Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
For Breakfast
- Warm Slices – Serve warm slices with a cup of coffee for a comforting breakfast treat.
- With Fresh Fruit – Pair with berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
As a Snack
- On-the-Go – Cut into squares and pack them for an easy snack during the day.
- With Whipped Cream – Top with whipped cream for an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up.
For Dessert
- Drizzled with Icing – Ensure each slice is generously drizzled with vanilla icing for extra sweetness.
- Ala Mode – Serve warm cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience.
At Parties
- Mini Portions – Cut into small squares for easy serving at gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy without feeling too full.
- Garnished with Nuts – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cake turns out fluffy and delicious every time you make it.
- Preheat Your Oven – Always preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness Early – Start checking your cake 5-10 minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean when done.
- Cool Before Icing – Let the cake cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.
- Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cake
Cinnamon Roll Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement this delicious dessert.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cake.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs offer protein and richness without overpowering flavors.
- Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness to your brunch or breakfast table.
- Maple Bacon Strips – The salty-sweet combination of bacon pairs excellently with cinnamon flavors in the cake.
- Chai Tea or Coffee – A warm beverage enhances the spice notes found in both the tea/coffee and the cinnamon roll cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cinnamon Roll Cake can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect the batter. Always let them come to room temperature before mixing.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to a dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense and tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing your cake to cool slightly before adding icing helps it set properly. Patience pays off!
- Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different; using an oven thermometer can help ensure you’re baking at the right temperature.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat a slice in 15-20 second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Roll Cake.
What makes Cinnamon Roll Cake different from regular cinnamon rolls?
Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls in a cake form, making it easier to serve and enjoy without all the rolling and shaping.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour, but consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better texture.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, it’s done baking!
Can I add nuts or fruit to my Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or apples can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake is not only easy to make but also bursting with delightful flavors that mirror traditional cinnamon rolls. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various add-ins like nuts or fruits. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Cinnamon Roll Cake
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of our Cinnamon Roll Cake, a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. This easy-to-make dessert combines the rich taste of cinnamon and sugar with the light texture of cake, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat anytime. Topped with a luscious vanilla icing that adds just the right amount of sweetness, this cake promises to be a hit among family and friends. With its simple preparation steps and delicious results, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture by combining softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a separate bowl.
- Layer half of the cake batter in the baking dish, dollop with cinnamon mixture, swirl gently with a knife, then add remaining batter on top.
- Bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla for icing; drizzle over warm cake after cooling slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 294
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 254mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 58mg
