Cinnamon Roll Cake – A Cozy, Sweet Delight

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Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in the form of a soft and moist cake. This Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect balance of fluffy cake, swirled cinnamon sugar, and a rich vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast treat, a sweet afternoon indulgence, or a delicious dessert to share, this cake is guaranteed to satisfy!

A Perfect Twist on Classic Cinnamon Rolls

If you love the gooey, spiced layers of a cinnamon roll but want an easier way to enjoy them, this cake is the perfect solution. The batter comes together effortlessly, and the cinnamon swirls create a gorgeous marbled effect. Topped with a luscious vanilla glaze, each slice is bursting with cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Whether served warm with a cup of coffee or as a festive treat for a special occasion, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is a surefire way to bring the nostalgic taste of cinnamon rolls into a simpler, more shareable form.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cake

To make this delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and rich, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and softness.

• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cake, providing structure and a light, fluffy texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the cake, balancing the warm cinnamon flavors.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, making it soft and airy.
• Milk – Keeps the cake moist while adding a slight richness. You can use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a tender crumb.
• Butter – Melted butter adds a rich, buttery flavor to the cake, enhancing its soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

The heart of this cake is its delicious cinnamon swirl, which mimics the classic filling of a cinnamon roll.

• Brown Sugar – Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star of the show, giving the cake its signature warm, spiced flavor.
• Melted Butter – Creates a smooth, spreadable consistency for the cinnamon swirl, ensuring it melts into the cake as it bakes.

Vanilla Glaze

No cinnamon roll-inspired dessert is complete without a sweet and creamy glaze drizzled on top!

• Powdered Sugar – The base of the glaze, giving it a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Milk – Thins out the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the glaze with a touch of warm, sweet flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cake comes together with just a few simple steps, making it an easy yet impressive treat.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.

Step 3: Layer and Swirl

Pour the cake batter into the greased baking dish. Spoon the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, with the cinnamon filling slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Add the Vanilla Glaze

While the cake is still warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle it generously over the cake, letting it seep into the swirls for extra sweetness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the soft, gooey, cinnamon-filled goodness in every bite!

How Long to Bake Cinnamon Roll Cake

The baking time for this cake may vary depending on your oven and the type of baking dish you use. Here are some general guidelines to ensure the perfect texture:

• Round or Square Pan (8×8 or 9×9 inches) – Bake for 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• Rectangular Pan (9×13 inches) – Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• Cupcake Version – If making individual servings, bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

You’ll know the cake is ready when:

• The edges are golden brown.
• A toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• The cinnamon swirl has slightly caramelized on top.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might not last long!), here’s how to keep your Cinnamon Roll Cake fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the cake soft and moist.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake

For the best texture and flavor, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Use Fresh Cinnamon – The key to a rich, aromatic flavor is fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon.
• Create a Beautiful Swirl – Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter without overmixing. This creates a perfect marbled effect.
• Let the Glaze Soak In – Drizzle the glaze while the cake is still warm so it melts into the cinnamon swirls for extra sweetness.
• Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon swirl for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the cake in advance and store it at room temperature or in the fridge. Add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.

Can I Use a Different Flour?
All-purpose flour works best, but you can use whole wheat flour for a denser texture or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Cake?
Microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm the entire cake in a low-temperature oven (300°F/150°C) for 10 minutes.

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect way to enjoy the warm, gooey flavors of a cinnamon roll in a simple, shareable form!

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