How to Make the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Cake

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting from the oven to start your day off right. But what if you could combine the best of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a cake? Enter the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Cake—a moist, flavorful dessert that’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A delicious hybrid of cinnamon rolls and cake, offering the best of both worlds.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert.
• Made from scratch using basic ingredients you likely have on hand.
• A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to serve and transport.
• No chocolate in sight, making it a great option for those looking for a chocolate-free dessert.

Ingredients

To make this Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)
• 3/4 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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until well combined. Stir in the melted butter until the batter is smooth.
3. Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter.
5. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Glaze the Cake: While the cake is still warm, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the batter to maintain the cake’s tender texture.
• Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.

How to Serve

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is versatile and can be served in various ways:

• Serve warm straight from the oven for a comforting treat.
• Let it cool and serve at room temperature for a snack or dessert.
• Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our Fluffy Pancakes recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

The Cinnamon Roll Cake can be made ahead of time and stored for later:

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a perfect addition to your quick family dinners or as a sweet treat for any occasion. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a great fit for easy pasta recipes and 30-minute meals alike. Enjoy it as part of your weeknight dinner ideas or as a special dessert for your next gathering.

For more dessert inspiration, visit our Chocolate Chip Cookies and Homemade Chocolate Cake recipes.