Cinnamon Roll Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
• Cinnamon Roll Flavor: Enjoy all the flavors of a cinnamon roll without the rolling and the fuss. It’s like a cinnamon roll, but easier!
• Great for Any Occasion: This cake is versatile enough to serve as a breakfast, brunch treat, or dessert.
• Moist and Sweet: The combination of the soft cake, cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze makes this cake irresistibly moist and delicious.

Ingredients

Bottom Layer:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup butter, melted

Top Layer:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Glaze:

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. Prepare the Bottom Layer: In a large bowl, mix 3 cups of flour, milk, white sugar, eggs, baking powder, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in the ¼ cup of melted butter. Once the mixture is smooth, pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

3. Prepare the Top Layer: In a separate large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and cinnamon together until smooth. Spoon the mixture by dollops over the batter in the baking pan.

4. Swirl the Layers: Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon topping into the bottom layer of batter, creating a marble effect.

5. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out nearly clean.

6. Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is baking, mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth.

7. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, spreading it evenly.

8. Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delicious, comforting cinnamon roll flavor in every bite.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Add Nuts: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
• Extra Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon for a more complex flavor.
• Frosting: If you love extra sweetness, top the cake with cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cake (without glaze) for up to 3 months. Let it thaw completely before adding the glaze and serving.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy the cinnamon roll goodness warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Almond flour is not a suitable substitute in this recipe as it behaves differently in baking. Stick to all-purpose flour for the best texture.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container and add the glaze just before serving.

3. Can I substitute the white sugar with brown sugar?

Brown sugar will work in place of white sugar in the bottom layer, giving the cake a slightly richer flavor, but keep in mind it may affect the cake’s texture a little.

4. Can I use a different type of milk?

You can use any milk you prefer, including whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk. The flavor and texture may vary slightly based on the milk used.

5. Can I add fruit to the cake?

Yes, you can add fruits like apples or raisins to the bottom layer before baking for a fruity twist on the classic cinnamon roll cake.

6. Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?

To make the cake dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and a non-dairy milk substitute like almond or coconut milk.

7. Can I make the cake without the glaze?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and moisture.

8. How do I prevent the top layer from sinking into the bottom layer?

Ensure that you swirl the top layer gently into the bottom layer with a knife, so it doesn’t fully mix in. This will help maintain the marble effect.

9. How do I know when the cake is done?

Test the cake with a toothpick. When inserted into the center, it should come out nearly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

10. Can I use a different type of pan?

Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time. A smaller pan will take longer to bake.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a wonderful, simple dessert that brings together the warmth and comfort of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake. With its moist layers, rich cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze, it’s sure to be a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser!

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