Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe: Sweet Swirls of Joy

Baking a delightful cinnamon roll cake can transport you to a world of sweet, comforting memories.

Warm aromas will soon fill your kitchen with nostalgic hints of childhood mornings.

Soft, pillowy layers promise a delectable experience that melts in your mouth.

Swirls of rich cinnamon dance through each tender slice, creating pure magic.

Cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that makes this dessert irresistible.

Home bakers will find joy in creating this simple yet extraordinary treat.

Prepare to indulge in a slice of pure happiness that will make everyone ask for seconds.

FAQs

  • How do I know when the cinnamon roll cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean without wet batter, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

  • Can I make this cake without a mixer?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk or wooden spoon. Just ensure all ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth without lumps.

  • What if I don't have brown sugar for the cinnamon swirl?

You can substitute with white sugar, though brown sugar provides a deeper, richer flavor and slightly different texture. If using white sugar, add a teaspoon of molasses for a similar taste.

Cinnamon Roll Cake That Delights

  • Swirl with Excitement: Create a stunning marbled cinnamon pattern that transforms a simple cake into a visual masterpiece, making every slice Instagram-worthy.
  • Bake without Stress: Requires basic ingredients and minimal mixing, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want a delicious dessert without complicated techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Delivers the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy cake format, guaranteed to make everyone from kids to grandparents smile with delight.
  • Serve Anytime Magic: Versatile treat suitable for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, or a sweet afternoon snack that requires zero fancy equipment and minimal preparation.

Ingredients For Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cake Base:
  • Flour: A key dry ingredient that provides structure to the cake.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake's texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Gives a warm, sweet flavor to the cake.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps create a smooth batter.
Cinnamon Swirl:
  • Butter: Softened to create a creamy cinnamon mixture.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the cinnamon mixture.
  • Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor to the cake.
Glaze:
  • Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Create a sweet, smooth topping that adds extra flavor and moisture to the finished cake.

Step-By-Step Cinnamon Roll Cake Guide

Step 1: Prepare The Baking Stage

Warm up your oven to a cozy 350F and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This sets the perfect foundation for your delectable dessert.

Step 2: Create The Cake Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Salt
  • Baking powder
Whisk in the wet ingredients until the batter becomes silky smooth:
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Melted butter

Step 3: Build The Cinnamon Swirl Layer

In a separate bowl, whip together:
  • Softened butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Flour
  • Ground cinnamon

Gently drop spoonfuls of this cinnamon mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife to create beautiful, mesmerizing swirls throughout the surface.

Step 4: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Create The Luxurious Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Step 6: Finish With A Sweet Finale

Once the cake is out of the oven, drizzle the glossy glaze over the warm cake. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure joy.

Tips For Moist Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Swirl the cinnamon mixture gently to create beautiful marbled patterns throughout the cake.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smoother, more even batter consistency.
  • Check the cake's doneness early to prevent overcooking, which can make it dry.
  • Serve warm for the most decadent flavor and softest texture.
  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture.

Flavorful Spins On Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cake: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Cake: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, dairy milk with almond milk, and butter with coconut oil for plant-based version.
  • Reduced Sugar Cinnamon Cake: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia instead of sugar, and cut back on brown sugar in the swirl for diabetic-friendly option.
  • Nutty Cinnamon Roll Cake: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl mixture for extra crunch and nutty flavor profile.

Pairing Ideas For Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Cozy Brunch Delight: Serve warm slices alongside fresh coffee or tea for a sweet morning treat that feels like a warm hug.
  • Weekend Dessert Showcase: Slice into perfect squares and plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent after-dinner indulgence.
  • Potluck Party Star: Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange on a decorative platter for easy sharing at family gatherings or social events.
  • Gift from the Kitchen: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper with a ribbon for a homemade gift that spreads delicious love to friends and neighbors.

Storage Tips For Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Store leftover cinnamon roll cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerate the cake for extended freshness, keeping it covered for 5-7 days.
  • Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Classic cinnamon roll cake brings together beloved breakfast pastry flavors in a moist, layered dessert. Swirls of cinnamon and sweet cream cheese frosting make this indulgent treat perfect for weekend brunch or special gatherings you’ll definitely want to share.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 12 cup (226 grams) butter, melted

Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 14 teaspoon salt

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create a smooth base by whisking together dry ingredients, then gently incorporating wet components until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
  3. Transfer the liquid batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring complete coverage of the pan’s bottom.
  4. Craft a decadent cinnamon swirl by blending butter, brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon into a crumbly, fragrant mixture.
  5. Distribute the cinnamon mixture across the batter’s surface, using a knife to create elegant, marbled swirls throughout the cake.
  6. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick emerges clean when inserted into the center.
  7. While the cake is still warm, prepare a silky glaze by combining powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
  8. Generously drizzle the glossy glaze over the slightly cooled cake, allowing it to cascade and create an enticing, sweet finish.
  9. Allow the cake to rest for a few minutes before serving, enabling the glaze to set and the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Swap out regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring the cake remains moist and delicious.
  • Use plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives to make this recipe completely dairy-free without compromising the rich, comforting flavor.
  • Control the sweetness by reducing sugar gradually or substituting with monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie version that still satisfies dessert cravings.
  • Create uniform swirls by using a toothpick or wooden skewer instead of a knife, which helps distribute the cinnamon mixture more evenly throughout the cake.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star