Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful baked treat that captures the essence of traditional cinnamon rolls in a simpler, cake form. It’s perfect for cozy breakfasts, weekend brunches, or any gathering where comfort food is welcomed. With a straightforward approach to preparation, it serves as an ideal option for busy days or quiet moments at home. This recipe welcomes everyone to enjoy a sweet slice that feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Cinnamon Roll Cake
This recipe lives up to its promise of ease and reliability, making it a go-to for everyday baking. The balance of comforting flavors provides a satisfying experience, perfect for both family meals and casual snacks. Cinnamon Roll Cake embodies practical everyday value, ensuring that whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, you’ll find comfort in every bite.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (structural role)
- 1 cup white granulated sugar (sweetness)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder (leavening agent)
- 2 large eggs (binding and moisture)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (flavor)
- 1 ½ cups milk (moisture)
- ½ cup salted butter, melted (slightly cooled) (fat for richness)
- ¾ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (fat and moisture)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar (rich flavor)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (thickening)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (warm spice flavor)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 5 tablespoons milk (moisture for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (flavor for frosting)
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly. This ensures that the cake forms a golden crust and does not stick to the pan while baking, allowing for a beautiful slice later on.
Step 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Whisk them together until they’re evenly mixed. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and helps the cake rise evenly in the oven.
Step 3. In another bowl, mix together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Make sure the ingredients are well blended. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the cake, creating a rich base for the cinnamon and sweetness to build upon.
Step 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and add the melted butter. Use a rubber spatula to gently combine them until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture, leading it to be denser rather than light and fluffy.
Step 5. In a separate small bowl, prepare the cinnamon filling by combining the softened butter, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour. Mix until it forms a crumbly mixture. This filling will add a delightful swirl of cinnamon sweetness to the cake.
Step 6. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This creates a base for the cinnamon filling, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as the cake bakes.
Step 7. Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the first layer of batter, making sure to cover it well. You can use a spoon or your fingers to sprinkle it, but aim for even distribution. This ensures every slice has that signature cinnamon roll flavor.
Step 8. Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon filling. Carefully spread it out to cover the filling completely. This top layer seals in the cinnamon goodness and helps the cake hold together when sliced.
Step 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.
Step 10. Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This resting period helps the cake set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
Step 11. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny, ensuring a nice drizzle over the cake.
Step 12. Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Use a spatula or spoon to help spread it evenly. This final touch adds a sweet finish and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon Roll Cake is endlessly versatile. It makes a wonderful breakfast option, offering a sweet start to your day alongside coffee or tea. It’s also delightful as an afternoon snack, perfect for family gatherings, or even served warm as a comforting dessert. Leftovers, if any, can easily be enjoyed at any time, giving you a delicious treat throughout the week.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Make sure your butter isn’t too hot when added to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before glazing for a smoother finish.
- For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, consider increasing the amount of ground cinnamon slightly in the filling.
- Adjust the glaze’s consistency with more or less milk if you prefer a thicker or thinner drizzle.
- If using a different pan size, keep an eye on baking time to avoid overbaking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake, quite different from the fluffy texture you want. Mix until just combined for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or milk can prevent proper mixing and may lead to uneven baking. Allow all ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
- Not greasing the pan adequately: If the pan isn’t greased well, the cake could stick, making it challenging to remove. Use a generous amount of butter or cooking spray.
- Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting the cake too soon can cause it to crumble. Let it cool properly to ensure clean, beautiful slices.
- Skipping the toothpick test: Not checking for doneness can result in a cake that is undercooked or overbaked. Always use a toothpick to test.
- Improper measuring of ingredients: Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and flavor. Always use the correct measuring tools to ensure precision.
Variations & Substitutions
- For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling.
- Experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, for a unique flavor profile.
- Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey treat.
- Top with cream cheese frosting for a richer indulgence.
- Try adding a splash of coffee to the batter for a subtle depth of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
For room-temperature storage, keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for about a week in an airtight container. For freezing, wrap the cake well in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm, taking care to avoid overheating.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 31g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Cinnamon Roll Cake ahead of time. It keeps well for a few days, and you can frost it just before serving, maintaining its fresh taste.
How long does it last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake lasts about 5-7 days in the refrigerator, retaining its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Definitely! The cake freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, and let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you run out of milk, you can use an equal amount of buttermilk to add richness.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Common issues might arise from overmixing, incorrect oven temperature, or not measuring the ingredients accurately. Always double-check your measurements and test for doneness.
Final Thoughts
Making Cinnamon Roll Cake is a satisfying experience that yields a warm and comforting treat. Each step brings you closer to a delightful dessert that is simple enough for any day yet special enough for gatherings. This cake, with its inviting flavors and easy preparation, will bring joy to your baking routines. Enjoy the warm flavors and comforting aroma of this delicious treat.
Cinnamon Roll Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Structural role
- 1 cup white granulated sugar Sweetness
- 4 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent
- 2 large eggs Binding and moisture
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Flavor
- 1.5 cups milk Moisture
- 0.5 cup salted butter, melted Slightly cooled, fat for richness
- 0.75 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature Fat and moisture
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar Rich flavor
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Thickening
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Warm spice flavor
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar For frosting
- 5 tablespoons milk Moisture for frosting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Flavor for frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Whisk until evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, mix together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Blend until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and add the melted butter. Use a rubber spatula to combine gently until just mixed.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the cinnamon filling by combining the softened butter, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour. Mix until crumbly.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon filling evenly over the first layer of batter.
- Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon filling and spread it out carefully.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and spread it evenly.