Description: This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, transformed into an easy-to-make and utterly satisfying cake. It captures the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter, all baked into a moist and tender cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The simplicity of the recipe makes it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers, offering a homemade treat without the fuss of traditional cinnamon roll preparation. The combination of a soft cake base with a rich cinnamon swirl creates a delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making each bite a moment of pure indulgence. Optional glaze adds a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake, while also helping with browning.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise, creating a light and airy texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Another leavening agent that reacts with the buttermilk to provide additional lift and a tender crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, contributing to its tender texture. If buttermilk is not available, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure, richness, and moisture to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a warm and inviting aroma.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness, moisture, and a tender crumb to the cake. Using melted butter ensures it mixes easily with the other ingredients.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The star ingredient that provides the characteristic warm and spicy flavor of cinnamon rolls.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness and moisture to the swirl, creating a delightful caramel-like flavor when baked.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cinnamon and brown sugar together, creating a luscious and flavorful swirl.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly. While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Greasing the dish prevents the cake from sticking and makes it easier to remove after baking. You can use butter, shortening, or a non-stick cooking spray. If desired, you can also line the bottom of the dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisking ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the cake’s texture and rise. This step helps to prevent pockets of baking powder or soda, which can result in an uneven bake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Make sure the melted butter is not too hot, as it could cook the eggs. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined, creating a smooth and homogenous mixture.
Step 4: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently stir the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. The batter should be slightly lumpy, but there should be no large pockets of dry flour.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the cinnamon swirl: 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined, forming a thick, crumbly paste. This mixture will be swirled into the cake batter to create the characteristic cinnamon roll flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure that the batter is distributed uniformly across the dish.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter, distributing them evenly across the surface. Then, use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture throughout the cake batter. Be careful not to overmix or dig too deep, as this can cause the cinnamon swirl to sink to the bottom of the cake. The goal is to create a marbled effect with the cinnamon mixture throughout the cake.
Step 8: Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to keep a close eye on the cake. If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
Step 9: Cool and Serve: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly in the baking dish before serving. Cooling allows the cake to set and makes it easier to slice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no yeast or kneading like traditional cinnamon rolls. This makes it a perfect option for those who want a homemade treat without the long preparation time. The cake is also incredibly moist and flavorful, thanks to the buttermilk and melted butter in the batter. The generous cinnamon swirl adds a burst of warm, spicy sweetness that complements the tender cake perfectly. Furthermore, it’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or an after-dinner treat. The recipe is also easily customizable; you can add a cream cheese glaze or other toppings to suit your taste preferences. Finally, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for serving to family and friends at gatherings and celebrations. The familiar and comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy to prepare cake are a sure way to bring smiles.
COOKING Rating
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5
- Taste: 5/5
- Visual Appeal: 4/5
- Overall: 5/5
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm Slices: Serve the cake warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Drizzle the cake with a simple cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of richness and sweetness. To make the glaze, whisk together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair the cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Berries and Whipped Cream: Top each slice with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for a more elegant presentation.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) on top for added texture and flavor.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Swirl Gently: When swirling the cinnamon mixture into the batter, do it gently to avoid overmixing and sinking of the swirl.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
- Let it Rest: Let the cake rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the swirl to set and the flavors to meld.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per slice, approximate)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that captures the essence of classic cinnamon rolls in cake form. With its moist and tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirl, and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a special breakfast, a comforting dessert, or a crowd-pleasing treat to share with friends and family. The combination of familiar flavors and effortless baking makes this cake a guaranteed winner, bringing warmth and sweetness to any gathering. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Cinnamon Roll Cake, and feel free to experiment with different toppings and glazes to make it your own signature creation. Happy baking!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A1: Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk. To mimic the tanginess of buttermilk, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe. This will help to tenderize the cake and provide a similar flavor profile.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This Cinnamon Roll Cake can be made a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. You can also refrigerate it to keep it fresh for a longer period. When ready to serve, you can warm it up slightly or enjoy it at room temperature.
Q3: Can I add a cream cheese glaze to this cake?
A3: Yes, a cream cheese glaze is a fantastic addition to this cake! To make a simple cream cheese glaze, whisk together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for an extra layer of richness and sweetness.
Q4: How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking to the bottom of the cake?
A4: To prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking, make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the swirl. Gently swirl it into the batter using a knife or a skewer, being careful not to dig too deep. The goal is to create a marbled effect without completely incorporating the swirl into the batter. Also, ensure that the batter is evenly distributed in the baking dish before adding the swirl.
Q5: Can I add nuts or other toppings to this cake?
A5: Yes, you can definitely add nuts or other toppings to this cake! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can also sprinkle the cake with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a streusel topping for added texture and sweetness. Feel free to get creative and customize the cake to your liking.
