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Craving the gooey, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls without the fuss? This Cinnamon Roll Cake is your answer—a Cozy Dessert that blends a tender, moist cake with a rich cinnamon swirl and sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner treat, this easy recipe will fill your kitchen with warmth and become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Cake

The Cinnamon Roll Cake shines as a Cozy Dessert:

Classic Flavors: Captures the essence of cinnamon rolls in cake form.
Easy Prep: No yeast or rolling, just simple mixing and baking.
Versatile: Ideal for any occasion, from casual to festive.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
I adore this Cozy Dessert for its comforting taste and irresistible aroma!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cake

Here’s what you’ll need for Cinnamon Roll Cake (serves 12):

Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp kosher salt
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Equipment:

9×13-inch baking pan

Ingredient Tips:

Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness; substitute with milk plus 1 tbsp lemon juice.
Butter: Softened for filling, melted for batter; unsalted for flavor control.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark for rich molasses notes in the filling.
Flour: Measure accurately to avoid a dense cake.
Milk: Whole or 2% for a smooth glaze; adjust for desired thickness.

Directions for Cinnamon Roll Cake

Let’s create this delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake!

Preheat and Prep

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
I grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy release.

Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, I whisk 2 cups flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt.
In another bowl, I combine 1 cup buttermilk, ¼ cup melted butter, 2 eggs, and 2 tsp vanilla extract.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently until just combined to keep the batter light.

Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, I mix ½ cup softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp flour, and 1 tbsp cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake

I spread half the cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly.
I dollop the cinnamon filling over the batter and gently spread it with a spatula.
I top with the remaining batter, spreading carefully to cover the filling, embracing any swirls that peek through.

Bake

I bake for 30–35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
I let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, I whisk 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth, adjusting milk for a drizzly consistency.

Finish and Serve

I drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, letting it soak in slightly.
I slice and serve warm or at room temperature, savoring the gooey cinnamon swirls.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: ~350 kcal per slice
Macros per Slice: 55g carbs, 4g protein, 15g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Cinnamon Roll Cake

Try these twists on Cinnamon Roll Cake:

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans to the filling for a Cozy Dessert twist.
Fruity Swirl: Mix ½ cup diced apples into the filling for a Cozy Dessert vibe.
Gluten-Free: Use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for accessibility.
Vegan: Swap butter, buttermilk, and eggs with plant-based alternatives.
Mini Cakes: Bake in a muffin tin for individual portions, reducing time to 20 minutes.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Baked Salmon Sushi Bowl for a sweet-savory meal.
Serve with coffee or chai tea to enhance the Cozy Dessert warmth.
Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Storage

I store Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. For longer storage, I refrigerate for up to 1 week, warming slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving. To freeze, I wrap cooled slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing for up to 3 months. I thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes for a fresh-baked feel.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Cake

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk. For a closer approximation to buttermilk, you can add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the Cinnamon Roll Cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. When ready to serve, you can warm it slightly in the microwave or oven. You can also prepare the glaze just before serving to drizzle over the warm cake for a fresh touch.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon filling?
Yes, you can customize the cinnamon filling by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even raisins. Simply fold in about 1/2 cup of your chosen add-ins to the cinnamon filling mixture before spreading it over the Cinnamon Roll Cake batter.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dry?
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cake remains moist, be careful not to overbake it. Check for doneness around the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Also, avoid overmixing the batter as this can lead to a denser, drier cake. If storing the cake, keep it in an airtight container to retain moisture.

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Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is an easy yet indulgent way to enjoy the flavors of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of rolling dough. With its tender crumb, rich cinnamon filling, and sweet glaze, it’s a surefire hit for any occasion. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home!