Introduction
Cinnamon Roll Cake brings the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls into an easy, shareable cake form. With its soft crumb, sweet cinnamon swirl, and simple glaze, it delivers bakery-style indulgence without the time commitment of rolling dough. This dessert is perfect for cozy mornings, family gatherings, or anytime you crave cinnamon-sugar comfort.
Origin
Inspired by traditional cinnamon rolls that trace back to Northern Europe—particularly Scandinavia—this cake-style adaptation emerged in American home kitchens. Bakers sought a quicker way to enjoy the beloved cinnamon-roll flavor profile using simple pantry ingredients and a single baking pan.
Cultural Significance
Cinnamon-flavored baked goods symbolize warmth, hospitality, and celebration across many cultures. In the U.S., cinnamon roll–inspired desserts are staples at brunches, holidays, and potlucks, often associated with togetherness and home-style comfort.
Ingredients Quantity (Makes about 12 servings)
Cake Batter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- Raisins or chopped dates for natural sweetness
- Cream cheese glaze instead of classic sugar glaze
- A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon swirl
Tips for Success
- Do not overmix the batter; gentle mixing ensures a tender crumb
- Swirl the cinnamon mixture lightly with a knife to create marbling without blending completely
- Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent it from melting away
- Use room-temperature ingredients for even baking
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla; mix until just combined.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter and swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the cake cools, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over the warm cake before serving.
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is moist, fluffy, and generously swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar. Each bite delivers the familiar warmth of a cinnamon roll, complemented by a sweet, silky glaze that melts into the cake’s surface.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 380–420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Sugar: 32 g
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cake captures everything people love about cinnamon rolls—sweetness, spice, and comfort—in a simpler, faster format. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Recommendation
Serve this cake warm with coffee or tea for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, consider reducing sugar slightly, using low-fat milk, or incorporating whole wheat flour for added fiber. Enjoying a modest slice mindfully allows you to savor the comforting flavors while maintaining balance in your overall diet.