Looking for a sweet breakfast treat that is easy to make and a family favorite? This homemade cinnamon roll cake is a quick solution made with cinnamon and sweet dough, perfect for a weeknight dinner dessert. Save for later and enjoy

Cinnamon Roll Cake

Introduction

The Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, transformed into a moist and flavorful cake that is as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Using everyday ingredients, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of sugar, all wrapped up in a tender, fluffy cake. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weekend breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. The aroma of cinnamon and baked goods will fill your kitchen, teasing everyone’s senses and building anticipation for the first bite. With its ease of preparation, rich flavor, and the creativity it allows for customization, the Cinnamon Roll Cake is sure to become a favorite among both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter creates a perfect balance of flavors that are both comforting and indulgent. The ingredients are easily found in most kitchens, making this recipe highly accessible.
Ease of preparation: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require yeast, rising time, and intricate rolling, this cake simplifies the process into a straightforward mix, pour, and bake method.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the Cinnamon Roll Cake presents beautifully, with a golden brown top, a drizzle of sweet glaze, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. It’s perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The Cinnamon Roll Cake relies on several key ingredients to achieve its distinctive flavor and texture. These include all-purpose flour as the base, granulated sugar for sweetness, unsalted butter for moisture and flavor, eggs for binding and richness, milk for added moisture, active dry yeast for a subtle rise, ground cinnamon for the signature cinnamon roll flavor, and brown sugar for depth. For the topping, a mixture of granulated sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes chopped nuts or oats adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version or adding different spices like nutmeg for extra depth.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping and set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and yeast. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, and milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
Step 3: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter over the top. Use a knife or spatula to create a swirly design, cutting through the batter to the bottom of the dish.
Step 4: Bake the cake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Once the cake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before drizzling with the glaze and sprinkling with additional cinnamon sugar if desired.

Handy Tips

Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Stop mixing once the ingredients are just combined.
For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle some chopped nuts or oats over the cinnamon sugar before baking.
Consider using different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the cake.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the Cinnamon Roll Cake is 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to not overbake, as this can dry out the cake. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Also, keep an eye on the cake’s color; it should be golden brown on top.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in the Cinnamon Roll Cake comes from the cinnamon sugar topping. To enhance this, ensure that the sugar and cinnamon are well mixed and evenly distributed over the batter before baking. For an extra crunchy texture, adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of oatmeal on top of the cinnamon sugar can provide a delightful contrast to the soft cake.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and a more even bake.
Don’t open the oven door during the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the cake from sinking.
For a shortcut, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping and glaze ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Storage Tips

The Cinnamon Roll Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s best covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
Reheating tips: Slice the cake and warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds per slice or until warmed through. Alternatively, wrap slices in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Gift Packaging Ideas

The Cinnamon Roll Cake makes a wonderful gift, especially when packaged thoughtfully. Consider placing sliced cake in decorative tins or jars, wrapping them in cellophane or gift bags, and tying with a ribbon. A handwritten note with the recipe or baking tips adds a personal touch. For a more rustic look, wrap the cake in parchment paper, tie with twine, and add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the batter for unique flavor profiles.
🌟 Creative toppings: Experiment with different nuts (walnuts, pecans), seeds (poppy, sesame), or even candy pieces (M&M’s, chocolate chips) on top of the cinnamon sugar.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor or use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free and vegan-friendly option.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: A dense cake might result from overmixing. Try mixing wet and dry ingredients separately and gently folding them together.
Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of an ingredient, consider substitutions like using honey instead of sugar or almond milk for regular milk.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the cake’s color and texture. An undercooked cake will be wet and soggy, while an overcooked cake will be dry and possibly too dark.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Is it gluten-free? The original recipe includes all-purpose flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour mixes for a gluten-free version.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased batter. Adjust baking time as needed, keeping an eye on the cake’s doneness.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Roll Cake is a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Its ease of preparation, rich flavor, and potential for creativity make it a perfect recipe for both beginners and experienced bakers. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast, a satisfying dessert, or a thoughtful gift, this cake is sure to please. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe