There's nothing quite like the scent of warm cinnamon and sugar swirling together in your kitchen. This Cinnamon Roll Cake takes everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls and transforms it into an easy, family-friendly dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

I first made this cake on a rainy Sunday, craving the comfort of cinnamon rolls but without the time for yeast dough. What came out of the oven was a masterpiece – soft, moist cake swirled with buttery cinnamon filling and topped with a luscious glaze. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a favorite in your home too!

Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake

Prepare to fall in love with this delightful twist on a beloved classic. From its ease of preparation to its rich, indulgent flavor, this Cinnamon Roll Cake has something for everyone.

First, this recipe skips the fuss of kneading and rising. No need to wait for dough to proof – the batter comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings.

The taste is pure comfort. Imagine the soft, fluffy texture of cake infused with the warm, spicy-sweetness of cinnamon swirls. Topped with a creamy glaze, it’s the ultimate treat for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-afternoon snack.

This cake is also highly customizable. Add nuts, raisins, or even a dash of maple extract to the glaze for a personalized touch. Whether you're serving picky eaters or adventurous foodies, it’s sure to please.

And let’s not forget how gorgeous it looks. The cinnamon swirls create a beautiful marbled effect, making it a showstopper at any table. Ready to make this cake? Let’s talk about the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

This Cinnamon Roll Cake relies on simple pantry staples to create a treat that tastes anything but ordinary. Let’s break down the key ingredients and why they’re essential.

Flour forms the base of this cake, giving it structure and softness. All-purpose flour works best, but you can use a gluten-free blend for a GF-friendly version.

Sugar is used in both the cake and the cinnamon swirl. White sugar ensures a tender crumb, while brown sugar in the swirl adds richness and depth.

Butter is a star here, creating a moist cake and a luxurious cinnamon filling. Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness.

Cinnamon brings the signature flavor to life. Be sure to use fresh ground cinnamon for the most vibrant taste.

Milk and eggs give the batter its moisture and bind everything together. Whole milk works best, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk if needed.

Powdered sugar is the key to the glaze. Its fine texture ensures a smooth, glossy finish that melts perfectly over the warm cake.

No special equipment is needed – just a mixing bowl, whisk, and 9x13-inch baking dish. Now, let’s get baking!

How to Make This Cinnamon Roll Cake

Making this Cinnamon Roll Cake is straightforward and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible dessert.

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, 2 eggs, and ½ cup of melted butter. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl it throughout for a marbled effect.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cinnamon swirls will create pockets of gooey deliciousness as it bakes!

Step 4: Make the Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together 1½ cups of powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency as needed – it should be pourable but not too runny.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), this Cinnamon Roll Cake stores beautifully.

Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.

To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back its fresh-baked texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Cake is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a more complex flavor.
Fruity Twist: Mix in chopped apples or raisins for a cinnamon apple cake variation.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Maple Glaze: Swap vanilla extract for maple extract in the glaze for a fall-inspired twist.

Experiment freely and make this recipe your own. The only limit is your imagination!

This Cinnamon Roll Cake brings the irresistible charm of cinnamon rolls into a cake that's quick, easy, and absolutely divine. Whether you’re making it for a special breakfast or a cozy dessert, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite. Go ahead – treat yourself and your loved ones to this warm, sweet, and comforting cake!