Description: Indulge in the irresistible flavors of a classic cinnamon roll, transformed into an easy-to-make and incredibly delicious cake. This Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the soft, moist texture of a buttery cake. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or any time you crave a sweet treat that’s sure to impress. The simple swirl of cinnamon-sugar throughout the batter creates pockets of gooey, spiced goodness in every bite. Top it off with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness, and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven! This cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing joy and warmth to any gathering. Imagine the delight on your family’s faces as they savor the comforting aroma and delectable taste of this homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, promising a delightful experience from start to finish.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the cake inside, allowing it to bake evenly. While the oven is preheating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Greasing the dish prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal once it’s baked. You can use butter, shortening, or cooking spray to grease the dish effectively. Ensure the entire surface, including the corners and edges, is coated to prevent any sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking these ingredients together ensures that they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step is crucial as it helps the leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) to work properly, resulting in a light and fluffy cake. The salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors, while the flour provides the structure for the cake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the cake, resulting in a moist and delicate texture. The eggs provide richness and structure, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile. Melted butter adds moisture and richness, contributing to the cake’s tender crumb. Ensure all wet ingredients are well combined to create a smooth and homogenous mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix only until the dry ingredients are moistened, leaving a few lumps is okay. This ensures that the cake remains tender and light in texture. The goal is to create a batter that is just combined, without being overworked.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. This mixture will create the irresistible cinnamon swirl that characterizes the cake. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while the cinnamon provides a warm, spicy flavor. Melted butter helps to bind the ingredients together and creates a gooey, flavorful swirl. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined and form a thick paste-like consistency.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake:
Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure that the batter is spread uniformly across the bottom of the dish. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and has a consistent thickness. Once the batter is spread, drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Distribute the spoonfuls evenly across the surface of the cake, ensuring that each area receives a generous amount of the cinnamon swirl.
Step 7: Create the Swirl Pattern:
Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture throughout the batter. Gently drag the knife or skewer through the batter, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix the swirl into the batter, as this can result in a muddy appearance. The goal is to create distinct pockets of cinnamon flavor that run throughout the cake. Swirl the mixture in a circular motion, creating a visually appealing pattern.
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 comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to check the cake for doneness. A clean toothpick indicates that the cake is fully baked and ready to be removed from the oven. The cake should be golden brown on top, and the edges should be slightly pulled away from the sides of the dish.
Step 9: Cool and Serve:
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Cooling the cake allows it to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. You can serve the cake warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. If desired, drizzle with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness. This glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Why you will love this recipe
This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a true culinary delight that will capture your heart with its incredible taste and ease of preparation. Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen, promising a treat that’s both nostalgic and utterly satisfying. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings joy and warmth to any occasion.
Firstly, the simplicity of this recipe is a major draw. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, which can be time-consuming and require a certain level of expertise, this cake comes together quickly and easily. With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can create a masterpiece that rivals bakery-quality cinnamon rolls.
Secondly, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The combination of warm cinnamon, rich brown sugar, and buttery goodness creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Each bite is a delightful explosion of sweetness and spice, reminiscent of cozy mornings and festive gatherings.
Thirdly, the versatility of this cake makes it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect choice. It’s equally delicious served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoyed at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea.
Finally, the visual appeal of this cake is undeniable. The swirling cinnamon pattern creates a beautiful marbled effect that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. The golden-brown crust and soft, moist interior make it a show-stopping centerpiece that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Serving Suggestions:
- Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice of warm Cinnamon Roll Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. The warmth of the cake and the coolness of the ice cream create a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible.
- With a Cream Cheese Glaze: For a richer twist, top the cake with a cream cheese glaze. The tangy flavor of the cream cheese complements the sweetness of the cake and adds a luxurious touch.
- Alongside Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice of Cinnamon Roll Cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting and satisfying breakfast or afternoon snack. The warm spices of the cake pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the beverage.
- As a Brunch Centerpiece: Make Cinnamon Roll Cake the centerpiece of your next brunch gathering. Its irresistible flavor and beautiful appearance will impress your guests and make your brunch truly memorable.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake. Mix only until the dry ingredients are just moistened.
- Swirl Gently: When swirling the cinnamon mixture into the batter, do so gently to avoid overmixing and creating a muddy appearance.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure that the cake is fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.
- Let it Rest: Allow the cake to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the swirl to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with 2 cups powdered sugar and 1/4 cup milk or cream until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 360 kcal per slice (Note: This is an approximate value and can vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.)
Protein: Approximately 4g per slice
Sodium: Approximately 200mg per slice
Conclusion
The Cinnamon Roll Cake is a recipe that promises not only deliciousness but also a delightful baking experience. Its ease, coupled with its incredible flavor and visual appeal, makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cake is sure to impress and bring joy to those who savor its comforting warmth and sweet cinnamon swirl. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a cake that will be a cherished favorite for years to come.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
A: While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, so adjust baking time if necessary.
Q2: What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a liquid measuring cup, then fill the cup with milk to reach 1 cup total. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle, then use as directed in the recipe.
Q3: Can I add nuts or other spices to the cinnamon swirl?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cinnamon swirl with your favorite additions. Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a nice crunch, and a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can enhance the warm spice flavor.
Q4: How should I store the leftover cake?
A: Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their warmth and moisture.
Q5: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. If you plan to make it further in advance, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. If adding a glaze, it’s best to add it just before serving to maintain its fresh appearance.
