Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
One bite of this Cinnamon Roll Cake and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The warm, buttery aroma fills the air, making my mouth water before I even take a slice.
The cake boasts a tender crumb, perfectly balanced with swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar that create a delightful surprise in every bite. It’s easy to make, which means I can whip it up for brunch or a cozy evening treat without stress.
Plus, that luscious glaze on top? It takes this cake to another level. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients of Cinnamon Roll Cake
When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients is key to creating something delicious. For this Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few special items that come together to create that warm, comforting flavor we all love.
Trust me, gathering these ingredients is the easiest part of the whole process. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup butter, softened (for the topping)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons flour (for the topping)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for the glaze)
- 5 tablespoons milk (for the glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the glaze)
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients a bit. You may notice that butter features prominently in this recipe—both melted and softened.
And, no, you can’t just skip one for the other. Trust me, I’ve tried, and the results were… let’s just say not pretty. The melted butter helps create that tender crumb in the cake, while the softened butter in the topping gives you those heavenly cinnamon swirls.
Also, don’t skimp on the quality of your vanilla extract; a good vanilla can elevate your cake from “just okay” to “where has this been all my life?”
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Now that you have all your ingredients laid out—you’re just a few steps away from enjoying the most delightful Cinnamon Roll Cake. Let’s get started, shall we?
First things first, you’ll want to grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of sugar, and 4 teaspoons of baking powder. Give these dry ingredients a good stir until they’re all mixed together, like they’re old friends catching up at a reunion.
Next, let’s add some wet love to the mix. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk, crack in 2 eggs, and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that warm, inviting flavor. Now, here’s where the magic happens: slowly stir in 1/2 cup of melted butter. I mean, who doesn’t love melted butter? Just be careful not to dump it all in at once; we want a smooth batter, not a butter tsunami.
Once everything is well combined, gently pour this luscious batter into a greased 9×13 pan.
Now, for the pièce de résistance: the topping. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This mixture should be thick and almost spreadable, like a warm hug.
Drop spoonfuls of this topping evenly over the batter, then grab a knife and gently swirl it through the batter. It doesn’t have to be perfect; in fact, the messier, the better, because that just means more swirls of deliciousness.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake your creation for 28-32 minutes. While it’s baking, try not to hover around the oven like a kid waiting for cookies to come out.
Once it’s done, let it cool slightly, and don’t forget to drizzle that sweet glaze—made with 2 cups of powdered sugar, 5 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract—over the top. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Enjoy every bite!
Cinnamon Roll Cake Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your Cinnamon Roll Cake, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or swap in almond milk for a dairy-free option.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding pumpkin puree for a seasonal flavor or mix in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. For the frosting, cream cheese adds a tangy kick, while maple syrup can bring a cozy richness.
Don’t hesitate to play with spices like nutmeg or ginger to customize your cake to your taste. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cake
What can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Cake experience?
I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added creaminess. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, adds a revitalizing contrast to the sweetness.
For a cozy touch, a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai pairs perfectly, enhancing those warm cinnamon flavors. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level.
Finally, a drizzle of caramel sauce can turn a simple slice into a decadent treat. These accompaniments truly make your Cinnamon Roll Cake shine!
Additional Tips & Notes
To really make the most of your Cinnamon Roll Cake experience, a few additional tips can enhance both flavor and presentation.
First, consider using freshly ground cinnamon for a richer taste. If you want a gooier texture, add an extra tablespoon of butter to the topping mixture.
For a beautiful finish, dust the cake with powdered sugar right before serving. You can also experiment by adding nuts or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra treat.
Finally, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love!