Cinnamon Roll Cake

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Absolutely! Here’s a full, rich recipe breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Cake — a beloved dessert that blends the warm, gooey flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease and form of a cake. This write-up includes everything you asked for: history, benefits, ingredients, instructions, methods, nutrition, and more. Let’s dive into the heart of this comforting classic!

Cinnamon Roll Cake: A Complete Culinary Love Letter

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of gooey cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a sheet cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake has earned a loyal following among bakers and sweet tooths alike. Whether served warm out of the oven or at room temperature with a drizzle of glaze, it captures the magic of cinnamon-sugar bliss in every bite.

A Brief History

The inspiration for Cinnamon Roll Cake comes from the traditional Swedish kanelbullar (cinnamon bun), which made its way to America and evolved into the classic cinnamon roll we know today. By the mid-20th century, home bakers began transforming this beloved treat into cakes, casseroles, and even pancakes. Cinnamon Roll Cake is the lovechild of innovation and nostalgia, making it a modern classic.

Benefits of Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Convenience: No yeast, no rise time — quicker than traditional cinnamon rolls.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday mornings.
  • Comfort food: Warm cinnamon has mood-lifting and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Versatile: Easily adapted to include nuts, raisins, apples, or cream cheese.

Ingredients

Bottom (Cake) Layer

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 ½ cups milk (room temperature)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cinnamon Swirl (Filling)

  • 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened

Glaze (Optional but Glorious)

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3–4 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Methods & Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared dish.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
  2. Add the softened butter and mix until thick and creamy.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter.
  4. Use a knife or skewer to swirl it throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake

  1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze.

Step 4: Glaze It

  1. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Drizzle over the warm cake and serve.

Formation (Serving Suggestions)

  • Serve warm with coffee or chai.
  • Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
  • Cut into squares for lunchboxes or bake sales.
  • For a brunch spread, pair with fruit salad and scrambled eggs.

Nutrition (Per Slice, Approx. 1/12 of Cake)

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 17g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Sugar: 34g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Calcium and iron from flour and milk

Note: Nutrition may vary with substitutions or added ingredients.

Cinnamon Roll Cake Lovers Say…

“It tastes just like a gooey cinnamon roll, but it’s so much easier!”
— Emily, home baker and mom of three

“This cake has made me the star of every church potluck.”
— James, grandpa and baking hobbyist

“It’s perfect for Christmas morning. My kids devour it in minutes!”
— Sofia, teacher and holiday enthusiast

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cake is more than a dessert — it’s a celebration of home, warmth, and indulgence. With the comforting spice of cinnamon, the richness of butter, and the simplicity of cake batter, it’s no wonder this treat has become a staple in kitchens everywhere. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning, this cake promises joy in every bite.

So go ahead. Pour the coffee, preheat the oven, and make something unforgettable today.

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