Cinnamon Roll Cake Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2️⃣ Make the Cake Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3️⃣ Create the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and a couple of tablespoons of sugar (you can use brown sugar for extra flavor if you prefer). Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the batter in an even layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon into the cake batter in a gentle figure-eight motion to create that signature cinnamon roll swirl effect.
4️⃣ Bake the Cake:
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and slightly puffed.
5️⃣ Prepare the Glaze:
While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt (if using) until smooth and pourable. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
6️⃣ Drizzle the Glaze:
Once the cake has cooled for about 10–15 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the cracks and crevices.
7️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake into squares and serve immediately. Enjoy the warm, gooey cinnamon goodness in every bite!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake:
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir until just combined to ensure your cake stays fluffy and tender.
- Swirl the cinnamon gently: Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls is all you need to achieve the classic cinnamon roll pattern.
- Let the cake cool slightly: This helps the glaze set just right and enhances the texture of each slice.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Cake:
- Cinnamon Roll Flavor in a Cake: You get all the buttery, cinnamon-sugar goodness without the hassle of rolling out dough.
- Quick and Easy: It takes less than an hour to make from start to finish!
- Perfect for Sharing: This cake is perfect for brunch, a family gathering, or even as an easy dessert to serve to guests.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx.):
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 41g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 23g
FAQ About Cinnamon Roll Cake:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Add the glaze right before serving for a fresh look.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Absolutely! Freeze the cake before glazing, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition. You could also add raisins or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra crunch.
Common Problems and Fixes:
- Cake not fluffy enough?
Make sure you’re using fresh baking powder, and don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined. - Cinnamon swirl sinking?
If the cinnamon swirl sinks into the batter, it’s likely because the batter was too thin or too much cinnamon was added. Just gently swirl a little bit of cinnamon sugar for the perfect swirl.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake: Add some chopped apples to the batter for a fruity twist.
- Maple Cinnamon Roll Cake: Replace the vanilla extract with maple extract for a lovely fall-inspired flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle Cake: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness!
Perfect for Every Occasion:
Whether it’s for a special brunch, holiday breakfast, or just a cozy weekend treat, Cinnamon Roll Cake is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The sweet cinnamon aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes? That’s just the start of the magic!
Success with Cinnamon Roll Cake:
Moist, soft, and brimming with cinnamon goodness, this cake is the perfect balance of sweet and comforting. You’ll find yourself making it over and over—because it’s simply too good to resist.
Tried this recipe? Snap a pic and tag us—let’s see your cinnamon roll cake creations!
