If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying the sweet, spicy delight of cinnamon rolls without the labor-intensive rolling and rising, then this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is your new best friend. It captures all the gooey, cinnamon-sugar magic packed into every bite but in a simple, fuss-free cake form that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat. Fluffy, moist, and topped with a luscious vanilla glaze, this cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that makes sharing both easy and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together effortlessly but each plays a vital role in building that signature taste, light texture, and inviting golden color. Understanding their purpose will help you appreciate the simplicity behind this homey dessert.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake provides structure and tenderness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly while aiding in moisture retention.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 4 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cake its perfect rise and fluffy crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the batter smoothly.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a rich texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and keeps the cake tender.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Essential for that deep caramel-like sweetness in the cinnamon swirl.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with brown sugar for the perfect cinnamon swirl consistency.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers classic cinnamon roll taste.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a creamy swirl when mixed with the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet and silky glaze topping.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for drizzling.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a smooth vanilla finish to the glaze.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you mix. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your cake releases effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder until evenly combined. Then add in the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir everything until the batter is smooth and thick, ready to pour into your prepared dish for a wonderfully tender crumb.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and the softened butter in a separate bowl. Mix thoroughly until it comes together as a slightly crumbly, rich cinnamon-sugar paste that you will dollop generously over the cake batter.
Step 4: Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture into the Batter
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter in the pan. Take a butter knife to gently swirl it through the batter, creating those signature marbled ribbons of cinnamon goodness that make this cake so visually appealing and flavorful.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, leaving you with a fluffy, fragrant cake just begging to be glazed.
Step 6: Whip Up the Glaze
While your cake bakes, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. The glaze adds a luscious touch of sweetness that pulls the whole dessert together.
Step 7: Glaze and Cool
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool slightly so the glaze doesn’t melt right off. Drizzle it over the warm surface for a glossy, irresistible finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings like a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can add texture and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can brighten the presentation, making this cake even more special.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. A glass of cold milk or spiced chai also complements the cinnamon perfectly and rounds out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or cut slices into bite-sized squares for a brunch buffet. You can even layer it in a trifle dish with whipped cream and fruit for a stunning visual treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its plush texture. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the fridge is fine but may slightly firm up the cake’s softness.
Freezing
This cake freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before serving.
Reheating
To refresh a slice, warm it gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven for a few minutes. The glaze softens and the cake regains that fresh-baked aroma and softness you love.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Certainly! You can substitute whole wheat flour for some or all of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber, though the texture might be slightly denser.
Is the cake sweet enough without the glaze?
The cinnamon swirl adds plenty of sweetness, but the glaze really brightens up the cake and adds that iconic sugary finish. You can skip it if you prefer less sweetness, but it’s highly recommended.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond milk or oat milk in place of cow’s milk and swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. The cake will still be moist and flavorful.
What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?
Drop the cinnamon mixture in dollops over the batter and use a butter knife to cut through the batter in a back-and-forth or circular motion. Don’t over-mix; you want distinct swirls!
How long does this cake keep fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this cake stays fresh and delicious for up to two days at room temperature or about five days in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is one of those magical creations that brings joy and comfort with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, it’s the perfect way to enjoy all the warm cinnamon flavors you love without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to bake it and share the smiles it brings!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake combines all the flavors of your favorite cinnamon rolls in a simple, marbled cake form. With a tender cake base swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a sweet glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast or dessert and serves 12 people.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 3 cups flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Then add the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour this batter into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Create cinnamon swirl mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and softened butter. Mix thoroughly to create a spreadable cinnamon-sugar swirl mixture.
- Add and swirl cinnamon mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter in the baking dish. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter, creating a marbled cinnamon effect throughout the cake.
- Bake the cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze: While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
- Cool and glaze the cake: Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool slightly but remain warm. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the top for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- You can use either vanilla or plain milk for a variation in flavor.
- Make sure the butter for the cinnamon swirl is softened for easier mixing.
- Adjust the glaze milk quantity to achieve desired thickness.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
- For a nuttier flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl.
