Introduction
Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect solution when you crave the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls but want something easier and quicker to prepare. I first made this cake on a quiet weekend morning when I wanted a cozy treat without the time and effort of yeast dough. It delivered everything I love about cinnamon rolls: soft texture, rich cinnamon swirls, and a sweet vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. What surprised me most was how simple it was to put together. The batter comes together quickly, and the cinnamon swirl creates that signature look and flavor with minimal effort. This cake is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and it fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking. Whether you are serving guests or enjoying a slice with coffee, this cinnamon roll cake feels indulgent, comforting, and wonderfully familiar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy, comforting, and packed with classic cinnamon roll flavor. It does not require yeast or rising time, yet it delivers a soft, moist cake with a rich cinnamon swirl and sweet glaze. Perfect for any time of day.
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Cinnamon Roll Cake – All the Flavor of Cinnamon Rolls in One Easy Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll Cake is a soft, moist vanilla cake swirled with rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, delivering all the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy cake form.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter.
- Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over the warm cake before serving.
Notes
- Do not over-swirl to keep defined cinnamon ribbons.
- Serve warm for the best cinnamon roll flavor.
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-Purpose Flour
Flour provides the structure for the cake while keeping it soft and tender.
Sugar
Sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a moist crumb.
Baking Powder
Baking powder gives the cake lift and lightness.
Salt
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and creates a smooth batter.
Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Butter
Butter adds richness to both the cake and the cinnamon swirl.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar creates the deep, caramel-like flavor in the cinnamon swirl.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the star flavor, giving the cake its signature warmth.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds depth and rounds out the sweetness.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is used for the glaze, adding a smooth, sweet finish.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and greasing a baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the swirl mixture. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter and gently swirl it through using a knife.
Bake until the cake is set and lightly golden. While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake before serving.
Equipment needed
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves nine people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking time is approximately 35 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover cinnamon roll cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat individual slices briefly to enjoy warm.
Variations and Customizations
This cake is easy to customize. You can add chopped nuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra texture or use cream cheese glaze instead of vanilla glaze for a richer finish. For a fall-inspired version, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon mixture. You can also bake this cake in a round pan or serve it as cupcakes by adjusting baking time. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the glaze slightly without affecting the cake’s texture.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Cinnamon Roll Cake is a sweet, comforting treat best enjoyed in moderation. It provides carbohydrates for energy and richness from butter and sugar.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Swirl Control
Do not over-swirl to keep defined cinnamon ribbons.
Batter Mixing
Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
Glaze Timing
Drizzle glaze while the cake is warm for best absorption.
Pan Choice
Use a light-colored pan for even baking.
FAQs
Does this taste like cinnamon rolls?
Yes, it captures the same warm cinnamon flavor in cake form.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well and reheats beautifully.
Can I use a cream cheese glaze?
Yes, it pairs perfectly with the cinnamon flavor.
Is yeast required?
No, this recipe does not use yeast.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, freeze without glaze for best results.
Why is my cake dry?
Overbaking can cause dryness, so watch closely.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Can I add fruit?
Yes, apples pair well with cinnamon.
What pan size works best?
A square baking dish works well.
Is this good for breakfast?
Yes, it is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cake is a comforting, easy-to-make dessert that delivers all the flavors you love in classic cinnamon rolls without the extra work. Soft, sweet, and swirled with cinnamon goodness, this cake is sure to become a favorite for cozy mornings and special gatherings alike.
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