Can I use a boxed cake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?

Yes, you can use a vanilla cake mix as a shortcut, but keep in mind that the texture will be softer, and the cinnamon filling may sink to the bottom. If using a boxed mix, reduce the amount of liquid slightly to create a thicker batter that holds the filling better.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake stays fresh for up to two days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. You can also make it a day in advance and warm it slightly before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

How do I prevent my cake from turning out dry?

Be careful not to overbake it. Start checking for doneness around 35 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Also, ensure your measurements for flour are correct by spooning and leveling rather than scooping directly from the bag.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it should still turn out delicious.

Cinnamon Roll Cake

Name: Cinnamon Roll Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup white granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups milk; ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled); ¾ cup salted butter, softened; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 2 cups powdered sugar; 5 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Description

This Cinnamon Roll Cake brings all the flavors of a gooey cinnamon roll into an easy, beginner-friendly dessert. With a soft vanilla cake base, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a sweet glaze drizzled on top, this cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

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 ½ cups milk
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)

For the Cinnamon Swirl

¾ cup salted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar
5 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Make the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring until combined. Slowly mix in the melted butter, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense. Pour the batter evenly into the greased baking dish.
Prepare the cinnamon filling: In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until smooth. Using a spoon, drop small dollops of the mixture evenly over the cake batter.
Create the swirl effect: Take a butter knife and gently swirl the cinnamon filling into the cake batter to create a marbled pattern. Avoid over-mixing to ensure distinct swirls throughout the cake.
Bake the cake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the glaze.
Make the glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. If a thicker glaze is desired, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner consistency, add more milk.
Glaze and serve: Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow it to soak into the warm cake for an extra gooey texture. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a teaspoon of maple extract to the cinnamon swirl.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk slightly.
This cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 538 kcal
Sugar: 56g
Sodium: 203mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 82g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg