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This cinnamon roll cake transforms the beloved flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls into an easy-to-make cake that brings warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. The marbled cinnamon swirl creates beautiful ribbons throughout the tender cake, while the sweet glaze adds that perfect finishing touch just like a classic cinnamon roll.
I first made this cake for a holiday brunch when I was short on time but wanted something special. The look on my family's faces when they realized they could enjoy cinnamon roll flavors without the hours of work was priceless. Now it's requested at nearly every gathering.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: forms the foundation of our cake with the perfect texture
- White sugar: sweetens the cake base without overpowering
- Baking powder: gives the cake its perfect rise without yeast
- Milk: adds moisture and richness to the batter
- Eggs: bind everything together and provide structure
- Vanilla extract: enhances the flavor profile in both cake and glaze
- Butter: creates richness in every layer, look for unsalted for best control
- Brown sugar: combines with cinnamon for that classic filling flavor
- Ground cinnamon: provides the signature warm spice, select fresh Ceylon cinnamon for best flavor
- Confectioners sugar: creates a smooth, perfectly sweet glaze
How To Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Prepare the Batter:
- Combine the flour, milk, white sugar, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl, mixing until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The batter should be smooth without any flour pockets. Gently stir in the melted butter until just combined. Pour this batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to the corners.
- Create the Cinnamon Filling:
- Beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. This filling should have a spreadable consistency similar to frosting. Drop spoonfuls all over the cake batter surface, spacing them somewhat evenly. This creates pockets of cinnamon flavor throughout the finished cake.
- Swirl the Layers:
- Take a knife and gently run it through the batter in S-shaped motions to create a beautiful marbled effect. Avoid overmixing as you want distinct swirls rather than a fully combined mixture. The goal is to create ribbons of cinnamon throughout the cake while still maintaining separate layers.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the cake in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out nearly clean with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. The top will be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Glaze While Warm:
- Whisk together the confectioners sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable. While the cake is still warm but not hot, pour the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to seep slightly into the cake. The warmth helps the glaze set perfectly with a slight sheen.
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My favorite part of this recipe is creating the swirl pattern. I remember my daughter wanting to help with this step, and her concentration as she carefully moved the knife through the batter made for a precious memory. The cinnamon filling creates these irresistible pockets of flavor that remind me of Sunday mornings with my grandmother.
Make Ahead Options
This cinnamon roll cake works wonderfully as a make-ahead breakfast option. You can prepare the batter and pour it into the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture fresh, dollop it over the batter, swirl, and bake. This method saves time while ensuring a fresh-baked treat. Alternatively, you can bake the entire cake a day ahead and warm individual slices before serving. The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
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Storage Tips
The cinnamon roll cake stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. The cake also freezes beautifully when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. To serve after freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly in the microwave or oven. The glaze may lose some of its shine after freezing, but a fresh drizzle of glaze can easily revive the appearance if serving for guests.
Flavor Variations
While the classic cinnamon version is hard to beat, this versatile cake welcomes creative variations. Try adding finely chopped apples to the batter for an autumn twist, or incorporate orange zest into both the cake and glaze for a bright citrus note. For a decadent version, sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon layer before swirling. Those who enjoy nuts might appreciate adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for added texture and flavor. Each variation maintains the beloved cinnamon roll essence while offering something new.
Serving Suggestions
This cake shines as the star of a breakfast or brunch spread, but also works beautifully as a coffee break treat or simple dessert. Serve warm slices alongside fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness. For a more indulgent presentation, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to transform it into a proper dessert. Coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk makes the perfect beverage pairing, cutting through the sweetness while complementing the warm cinnamon notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the cinnamon swirl in the cake?
After pouring the batter into the pan, drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Use a knife to swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
- → Can I make the glaze thicker?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of milk when mixing the glaze to achieve a thicker consistency.
- → What’s the texture of this cake?
The cake is soft and moist, with a buttery crumble and a sweet glaze that adds a smooth finish.
- → Can I use a different type of flour?
It's best to use all-purpose flour for this recipe, but you could try substituting with a gluten-free blend if needed.
- → What makes this cake special for brunch?
Its cinnamon aroma and buttery glaze make it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy and indulgent brunch spread.
- → How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.