Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe to Try Now
If you’re craving the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but want a quicker, fuss-free dessert, this Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a soft, fluffy cake packed with cinnamon-spiced swirls and draped in a sweet vanilla glaze—perfect for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful snack any time of day. This Cinnamon Roll Cake combines all the goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls with an easy-to-make, cake-like texture that will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find and combine for flavorful results.
- Quick Preparation: No dough rolling or waiting for rising—get this delicious cake ready faster than traditional cinnamon rolls.
- Soft and Moist Texture: Achieves a tender crumb that melts in your mouth with each bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this cake impresses every time.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adjusted with nuts, cream cheese frosting, or extra spice to suit your cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that blend together to deliver a burst of cinnamon sweetness and a moist, fluffy crumb. Each ingredient plays a key role—from the spices adding warmth to the butter enriching the cake’s texture.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a light texture to the cake.
- Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a golden crust.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise beautifully and become airy.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings the signature warm, fragrant flavor.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cinnamon notes.
- Butter: Adds richness and keeps the cake tender.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s moist texture.
- Milk or buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tanginess that complements the cinnamon.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with a touch of sweetness and aroma.
- Brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon swirl for deep molasses flavor and caramel notes.
Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cake
One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Cake is how easy it is to tailor ingredients or add-ins to match what you love or have on hand. Explore these variations to make it uniquely yours or adjust for dietary needs.
- Nutty Delight: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for an added crunch.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting for an extra luscious finish.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Spiced Up: Add nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon to deepen the warm spice profile.
- Fruit Twist: Incorporate raisins or chopped apples in the swirl for bursts of fruity sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined. This ensures every bite will have a consistent cinnamon-sugar flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the softened butter with eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the base of your tender, moist cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create the signature cinnamon swirl that will be layered in the cake.
Step 5: Layer and Swirl into the Cake
Pour half of the cake batter into a greased baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Pour the remaining batter over this and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture throughout the batter, creating marbled layers.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the cake in a preheated oven (typically 350°F or 175°C) for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a simple glaze with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake, letting it soak into those cinnamon swirls beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and tender.
- Swirl With Care: Use a gentle hand when swirling to create pretty cinnamon layers without blending everything together.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh ground cinnamon makes a significant flavor difference—avoid old or stale spices.
- Check Baking Times: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or powdered sugar on top for a simple elegant look. Freshly chopped nuts or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can also complement the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a breakfast twist, serve with fresh fruit or a cup of rich, freshly brewed coffee.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the cake into individual squares and place each on a pretty dessert plate, then drizzle with extra glaze or maple syrup. Alternatively, serve it family-style in the pan with a warm pot of tea for a cozy gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezing
This cake freezes well. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat anytime.
Reheating
Thaw frozen cake slices overnight in the fridge, then gently warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven until heated through. A quick reheat brings back that fresh-baked softness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or whole wheat flour, but expect a slightly denser texture. Adjust liquids as needed.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?
Yes, folding in chopped nuts or raisins is a fantastic way to add texture and flavor to your Cinnamon Roll Cake without changing the preparation much.
How long does it take to make Cinnamon Roll Cake from start to finish?
The entire process usually takes about 45 minutes, including preparation and baking, making it a quick alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls.
What’s the best way to store leftover glazed cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out, and keep it refrigerated if you expect to eat it beyond two days.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is a delightful and straightforward way to enjoy all the cinnamon-sugar magic without the hassle of rolling dough. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, this soft, flavorful cake brings warmth and sweetness to the table. So go ahead—give it a try and make your day a little cozier and a lot tastier!
