Indulge in the delightful fusion of a classic cinnamon roll and a moist cake with this Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Cake. Featuring a tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirls, and a sweet glaze, this dessert is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner treat.
Why This Recipe Appeals
- Classic Flavors: Combines the beloved taste of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake.
- Moist and Tender: The cake’s soft texture pairs perfectly with the gooey cinnamon swirl.
- Simple Preparation: Straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cinnamon Swirl Topping:
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare it for the cake batter.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, milk, white sugar, eggs, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well-combined and smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
3. Make the Cinnamon Swirl Topping
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the batter in the baking pan.
- Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
4. Bake the Cake
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out nearly clean.
5. Prepare the Glaze
- While the cake is baking, mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
6. Add the Glaze
- Once the cake is done, drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Possible Variations
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
- Maple Infusion: Replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with maple extract for a different flavor profile.
- Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–15 slices
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the cake moist, cover it with plastic wrap or foil.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave before serving.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to enjoy a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour, though it may slightly alter the texture.
2. How can I make this cake dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) and replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
3. Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?
You can reduce the sugar in the batter and topping by up to 25%, but it may affect the cake’s sweetness and texture.
4. Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, bake the cake and add the glaze. Once cooled, cover and store at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed within 1–2 days.
5. What can I use instead of confectioners’ sugar for the glaze?
You can make a simple syrup glaze by dissolving granulated sugar in a small amount of water over heat until it thickens slightly.
6. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter, as it can develop excess gluten, leading to a denser cake. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
7. Can I add raisins or other dried fruits?
Yes, folding in raisins or chopped dried fruits into the batter can add extra flavor and texture.
8. What type of cinnamon is best for this recipe?
High-quality ground cinnamon, such as Ceylon or
