Name: Cinnamon Roll Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups milk; 1 cup white sugar; 2 eggs; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; ¼ cup sugar

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a mouthwatering treat that combines the rich, warm flavors of a cinnamon roll with the soft, airy texture of a cake. It’s incredibly easy to make and is perfect for a special breakfast or dessert. The marbled cinnamon-sugar swirl gives it a delicious, gooey finish that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups milk

1 cup white sugar

2 eggs

4 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.

Add in the vanilla extract and mix again.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of cinnamon with ¼ cup of sugar. Sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter.

Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon-sugar into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Variations

If I’m feeling adventurous, I sometimes add a glaze to the top of the cake. A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and a little vanilla extract drizzled on top makes it even more indulgent. You can also experiment by adding nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a bit of crunch. For a chocolate twist, consider adding mini chocolate chips to the batter or swirling them into the cinnamon-sugar mix.

Storage/Reheating

I store my Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If I want to keep it longer, I’ll refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. To reheat, I simply place a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. It will still taste fresh when served the next day.

Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven.

What can I use instead of milk?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk. The texture and flavor will still be delicious!

How do I know when the cake is done?

I usually test the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. If there’s batter on the toothpick, I give it a few more minutes.

Can I add icing on top?

Yes, you can add a simple glaze or icing on top of the cake for an extra touch of sweetness. I love a glaze made with powdered sugar and a bit of milk to drizzle over the cake before serving.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful treat that offers the best of both worlds: the comforting, sweet flavors of a cinnamon roll with the soft, fluffy texture of cake. It’s simple to make, can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert, and offers endless variations. Whether I’m serving it for a crowd or enjoying a slice on my own, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Cinnamon Roll Cake

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating