Cinnamon Roll Cake: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat

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Cinnamon Roll Cake: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Treat

Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved treat for centuries, cherished for their sweet, spiced swirls and soft, pillowy texture. But what if you could enjoy all the flavors of a cinnamon roll in the form of a cake? That’s where Cinnamon Roll Cake comes in—a soft, buttery, and utterly delicious dessert that combines the best elements of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a sheet cake.

Whether you’re baking for a family breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a special gathering, this cake will impress cinnamon lovers with its rich aroma and irresistible taste. Let’s dive into its history, ingredients, method, and everything that makes it a favorite among dessert lovers.

A Brief History of Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls date back to Sweden, where they are known as “kanelbullar” and are traditionally enjoyed with coffee. Introduced in the 1920s, these sweet pastries quickly gained popularity across Europe and North America. The American version of cinnamon rolls, often topped with a rich glaze, became a breakfast staple in many households.

The idea of turning cinnamon rolls into a cake format likely came from home bakers looking for a quicker, easier way to enjoy the same flavors without the need for yeast and rising time. The result? A delicious, no-fuss cake that delivers the gooey, spiced goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls with far less effort.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:

  • 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
  • 5 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  4. Stir in the melted butter and mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

  1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
  2. Stir in the melted butter until a thick, smooth mixture forms.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter.
  4. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

  1. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
  2. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
  3. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before adding the glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the surface.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Slice the cake into squares and serve warm.
  • Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate comforting treat.

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Cake

  1. Easier than Cinnamon Rolls – No yeast, no kneading, no waiting for the dough to rise!
  2. Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
  3. Irresistible Flavor – A soft cake base with rich, gooey cinnamon swirls and a sweet glaze.
  4. Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays moist and delicious for days, making it perfect for meal prep or special gatherings.

Who Loves This Cake?

  • Cinnamon Lovers – If you love the warm spice of cinnamon, this cake will be your new favorite.
  • Bakers Who Want a Quick Treat – No waiting for dough to rise, just mix, swirl, and bake!
  • Families and Kids – The sweet cinnamon aroma and gooey glaze make it a hit with children and adults alike.
  • Coffee and Tea Enthusiasts – A slice of this cake pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.

Variations and Customizations

Want to switch things up? Here are some ways to make your Cinnamon Roll Cake even more exciting:

  • Nutty Delight – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
  • Cream Cheese Glaze – Replace some of the milk in the glaze with cream cheese for a tangy twist.
  • Apple Cinnamon Cake – Mix in finely chopped apples into the batter for a fruity surprise.
  • Chocolate Cinnamon Swirl – Add a bit of cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the swirl for a chocolatey kick.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cake is the ultimate fusion of a classic cinnamon roll and a simple sheet cake. It captures all the beloved flavors of a warm, gooey cinnamon roll while eliminating the time-consuming steps of traditional roll-making. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend breakfast, a holiday brunch, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is a must-try.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful combination of cinnamon, sugar, and soft cake in every bite. Happy baking!

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