Cinnamon Roll Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake, making it perfect for brunch or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake’s moist texture and rich icing make it an irresistible choice. Plus, it’s easy to whip up with ingredients you likely have at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: No complicated steps here! This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla makes every bite a heavenly experience.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a delightful dessert after dinner.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, it’s great for parties or family gatherings.
- Quick Preparation: In just 50 minutes, you can have this warm cake ready to serve.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor throughout the cake.
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort by quickly mixing batter to the perfect consistency.
Ingredients
This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake dessert has all the flavor of a cinnamon roll but in an easy cake with a vanilla icing drizzled on top!
For the Cake
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)
For the Cinnamon Filling
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) salted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 5 Tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Granulated sugar
Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Milk
3. Vanilla extract
4. Melted butter
Make sure these ingredients are well blended.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Pan
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Spread half of the cinnamon filling evenly over this layer. Repeat with remaining batter and topping.
Step 8: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Step 9: Prepare Icing
While the cake is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 10: Drizzle Icing
Once baked and slightly cooled, drizzle icing over the warm cake for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake fresh out of the oven!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake
Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a brunch or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.
Classic with Coffee
- Pair your Cinnamon Roll Cake with a hot cup of coffee for the perfect morning treat. The warmth of the beverage complements the sweet flavors beautifully.
Ice Cream Topping
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice of cake. The melting ice cream creates a creamy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Serve with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cake.
Whipped Cream Dollop
- Top your cake with a generous dollop of whipped cream. This adds an airy texture and richness that makes each bite even more indulgent.
Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle
- Dust some cinnamon sugar over the top just before serving. This extra touch brings out the cinnamon flavor and adds visual appeal.
Nutty Crunch
- Crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch. They also complement the soft texture of the cake nicely.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
To make sure your Cinnamon Roll Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense cake.
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Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done. This ensures your cake is baked perfectly.
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Cool Before Icing: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding icing. This prevents the icing from melting off and keeps it intact.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. These spices can enhance the cinnamon taste.
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Storage Matters: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cake
Cinnamon Roll Cake pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider these options for a well-rounded meal.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy and crunchy contrast.
- Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet cake.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and make it suitable for brunch.
- Oven-Baked Hash Browns: These crispy potatoes add heartiness to your breakfast table.
- Smoothies: A fruit smoothie can refreshingly balance out the richness of the cake.
- Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses that pair well with sweet flavors, providing variety.
- Syrup-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with syrup add an unexpected but delightful side dish option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cinnamon Roll Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the room temperature butter: Using cold butter can lead to a dense cake. Ensure your butter is softened for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Ignoring mixing times: Overmixing or undermixing can affect the cake’s texture. Mix just until combined for optimal results.
- Using old baking powder: Expired baking powder can prevent your cake from rising. Always check the expiration date before using.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven: A preheated oven ensures even baking. Always preheat before putting your cake in.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for several minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cinnamon Roll Cake that may help you perfect your recipe.
How do I make my Cinnamon Roll Cake more moist?
To enhance moisture, consider adding an extra egg or increasing the milk slightly. This will create a richer texture and taste.
Can I use whole wheat flour for Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat for balance.
What toppings pair well with Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Delicious toppings include chopped nuts, fresh fruit, or additional icing. These can add flavor and texture variations to your dessert.
Is there a way to customize my Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the batter before baking to create unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Roll Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It offers all the delightful flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a simpler form. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins, making it perfect for any occasion!
Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake, a delightful fusion of classic cinnamon rolls and cake that brings comfort to any occasion. This easy-to-make dessert features a moist cake base infused with rich cinnamon and vanilla flavors, all topped off with a luscious icing that melts in your mouth. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is an irresistible choice that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just simple ingredients found in your pantry, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups milk
- ¾ cup salted butter (divided)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and sugar until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the filling.
- Layer half the batter into the prepared pan followed by half the cinnamon filling; repeat layers.
- Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling, prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
- Drizzle icing over the warm cake before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
