Name: Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup white granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups milk; ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled); ¾ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (1 1/2 sticks); 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon; 2 cups powdered sugar; 5 Tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you love breakfast pastries but crave the simple joy of homemade cake, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is about to become your new go-to treat. Imagine all the gooey, cinnamon-sugar comfort of classic rolls baked into a moist, tender cake with a silky glaze cascading over the top. What makes this dish irresistible is how easy it is to pull together—no yeast, no kneading, just layers of warming spice, buttery swirls, and sweet vanilla glaze in every slice. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at brunch or sneaking a sweet slice with your afternoon coffee, this Cinnamon Roll Cake has you covered.

Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Cake is in its straightforward list of ingredients, each one bringing something essential to the table. Simple staples like flour and eggs give it structure, while the cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy glaze are what turn this cake into something crave-worthy.

All-purpose flour: Provides the foundation for a tender, fluffy cake crumb.
White granulated sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully in the oven for a light texture.
Large eggs: Bring structure and richness, helping the cake hold together perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall aroma, giving the cake a bakery-style flavor.
Milk: Keeps the batter moist and light; whole milk is ideal for fullness.
Salted butter (melted): Adds richness and a slight, savory balance to all the sweetness.
Salted butter (softened): For the filling, provides a creamy and luscious swirl.
Light brown sugar: Delivers that classic cinnamon roll “gooey” flavor in the swirl.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice, infusing every bite with warmth.
Powdered sugar: A fine base for the silky-sweet glaze that finishes the cake.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350F degrees. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it generously with nonstick cooking spray (the type with flour in it works best!). This will ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cake comes out easily and is perfectly golden on the edges.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, white granulated sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Let these ingredients blend until just incorporated—overmixing can make the cake dense, and no one wants a rubbery Cinnamon Roll Cake! Slowly pour in your melted, slightly cooled salted butter, mixing just until the batter is smooth and luscious.

Step 3: Fill the Pan

Spread the cake batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Take a moment to smooth the surface gently with a spatula, ensuring every corner is filled. These extra few seconds will give your cake that perfect bakery finish.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Now for the magic swirl! In a small bowl, mix your softened salted butter with light brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and utterly fragrant. Use a spoon to drop dollops of this mixture all over the cake batter.

Step 5: Swirl the Cinnamon Filling

Using a butter knife, swirl the cinnamon filling throughout the cake batter. Create beautiful marble patterns by dragging the knife in curved lines, making sure to pull some of the cinnamon mixture into the cake for maximum flavor with every bite.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Bake your Cinnamon Roll Cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The cake is done when a knife poked into the center comes out clean and the top is delightfully golden-brown. Let it cool for a few minutes in the pan; the aroma alone will be irresistibly inviting!

Step 7: Make and Add the Glaze

While your cake is warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar—whichever you prefer! Drizzle this glossy glaze over the cake, letting it sink into the swirls and crevices. The result? Gooey perfection.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake

Garnishes

Finish your Cinnamon Roll Cake with a dusting of extra powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a handful of chopped toasted pecans for crunch. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also add a fun, colorful twist.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot mug of coffee or chai, balancing the sweet with a hint of cozy spice. For brunch, serve it alongside salty bacon or scrambled eggs—the combination of flavors is simply unbeatable.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Cinnamon Roll Cake into generous squares and stack them on a tiered platter for a party-worthy look. Or serve warm slices in individual ramekins with an extra drizzle of glaze and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake tightly with plastic wrap or place slices in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to two days or store in the refrigerator for up to five days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The Cinnamon Roll Cake will keep well for up to two months—perfect for spontaneous cravings! Thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

For an experience that’s just as delightful as fresh, warm slices briefly in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds per piece) or in a low oven. If you saved extra glaze, add a drizzle before heating for added sweetness and shine.

FAQs

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake up to a day in advance. Just wait to pour the glaze until right before serving for that fresh, glossy finish everyone loves.

Can I substitute unsalted butter for salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but add a pinch of salt to the batter and filling to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cake has the right depth of flavor.

Is it necessary to use a stand mixer for the batter?

Not at all! A hand mixer or even a sturdy whisk will work perfectly. Just be sure not to overmix—gentle blending ensures a tender crumb.

How can I make this Cinnamon Roll Cake gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free blend. Check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and you’ll be ready to enjoy this treat allergy-friendly.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon swirl?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of raisins make lovely additions to the filling, giving your Cinnamon Roll Cake a fun, customized twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about pulling a fresh Cinnamon Roll Cake from the oven, the air scented with cinnamon and vanilla. Whether you’re making it for friends, family, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake transforms an everyday craving into a special occasion. Give it a try—you might just find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds)!

Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 26 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in the form of a delicious and easy-to-make cake. This Cinnamon Roll Cake features a moist and tender crumb, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and a creamy glaze that brings it all together.

Instructions

For the cake: Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Spray 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Slowly add melted butter while mixing. Spread batter in baking dish.
For the filling: Combine softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls onto cake batter and swirl with a knife.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean.
For the glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust consistency as desired and pour over warm cake.

Notes

This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon filling for extra texture.
Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American