Close-up of a soft cinnamon roll cake slice with gooey cinnamon swirls and vanilla glaze, served on a white plate.
Dessert

Delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

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This cinnamon roll cake brings all the cozy flavors of a breakfast cake into one sweet, soft layer. With rich brown sugar and cinnamon swirled through a moist vanilla batter, it’s a simple homemade cake that feels special. It’s an easy cinnamon treat that’s perfect for gathering around with coffee or enjoying as a delightful honey bun cake recipe alternative.

Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

Recipe by Victoria JonesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Total time

45

minutes
Calories

400

kcal

45

minutes

A delightful cake that captures the essence of Cinnabon cinnamon rolls, filled with a rich cinnamon swirl and topped with a luscious glaze.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 ½ cups milk

  • 1 cup white sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 4 teaspoons baking powder

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ cup butter, melted

  • 1 cup butter, softened

  • 1 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar

  • 5 tablespoons milk

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  • In a large bowl, mix together flour, milk, white sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt until well-combined.
  • Stir in the melted butter to keep the batter moist.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
  • In another bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
  • Spoon the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter, leaving dollops here and there.
  • Swirl the cinnamon layer into the batter using a knife to create a marbled effect.
  • Bake in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out nearly clean.
  • While cooling, mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
  • Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients and tools to create your delicious Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup melted butter (unsalted)
  • 1 cup softened butter (for cinnamon layer)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for cinnamon layer)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (for glaze)
  • 5 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or whisk
  • Knife (for swirling)

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Freshly baked cinnamon roll cake in a glass dish, topped with a thick vanilla glaze and cinnamon swirls.
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, milk, white sugar, eggs, baking powder, and salt until combined.
  3. Stir in the melted butter to keep the batter moist.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
  6. Spoon the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter, leaving dollops across the surface.
  7. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon layer into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
  8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out nearly clean.
  9. Allow the cake to cool slightly while preparing the glaze.
  10. In a bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  11. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake.
  12. Slice and enjoy your delightful Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake!

Tips & Tricks

  • For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the white cake layer.
  • Prep the cinnamon layer ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time on baking day.
  • If you want a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warm, making it taste freshly baked.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk in this recipe?

Yes, almond milk works as a dairy-free alternative and keeps the recipe creamy, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How long does it take to cook this dish?

Cooking time varies, but it usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes depending on the heat and ingredients used.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just assemble and cook when ready.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Definitely. The steps are simple and clear, making it a good choice for those new to cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or rice to balance the flavors and textures.

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