Cinnamon Roll Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the best aspects of a classic cinnamon roll and a moist cake. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or any cozy gathering, this cake is easy to make and will impress your family and friends. With its warm cinnamon flavor and sweet vanilla icing, it stands out as a delicious treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for complex rolling and shaping; this recipe simplifies the cinnamon roll process into an easy-to-bake cake.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for breakfast, dessert, or even a sweet snack any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serves 12, making it ideal for gatherings or potlucks where you want to impress without too much effort.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist on this classic recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this Cinnamon Roll Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect results every time.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your mixture, leading to a lighter cake texture.

Ingredients

This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake dessert has all the flavor of a cinnamon roll but in an easy cake with a vanilla icing drizzled on top!

For the Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened to room temperature (1 1/2 sticks)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Icing

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 Tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients until mixed well.
4. Stir in the melted butter until combined.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour half of the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly:
– Spoon dollops of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter.
– Pour remaining batter on top and swirl gently with a knife.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 6: Make Icing

While the cake is cooling:
1. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 7: Drizzle Icing

Once cooled slightly, drizzle icing over warm cake before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• With Coffee: Pair a slice of cake with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect morning treat.
• Fruit Topping: Add fresh berries or sliced bananas on top for a refreshing twist.

At Brunch

• Whipped Cream: Top the cake with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

For Dessert

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the icing for an added layer of flavor.
• Nuts Sprinkle: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for some crunch and richness.

As a Snack

• With Tea: Enjoy a slice with your favorite herbal tea in the afternoon for a delightful snack.
• Microwave Warmed: Warm up individual pieces in the microwave for 10 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

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How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake

To make sure your Cinnamon Roll Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overcooking.
• Cool Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the cake.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the cake.
4. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon is savory and adds a delicious contrast to the sweet cinnamon flavors.
5. Sausage Links: Cooked sausage links bring richness and heartiness, perfect for brunch settings.
6. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns make for a satisfying savory addition next to your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Cinnamon Roll Cake can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before icing is essential. If you ice it too hot, the frosting will melt away.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly for best results.
• Using stale spices: Fresh ground cinnamon makes a big difference in flavor. Ensure your spices are fresh for that delightful taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• The Cinnamon Roll Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm gently for several minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what you might be wondering about this delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake:

How do you make Cinnamon Roll Cake from scratch?

To make Cinnamon Roll Cake from scratch, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to form the batter. For the filling, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour together before swirling it into the batter.

Can I add nuts to my Cinnamon Roll Cake?

Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your cake. Simply fold them into the batter or sprinkle them on top before baking.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is Cinnamon Roll Cake suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! Many enjoy this delightful cake as a sweet breakfast treat, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy mornings at home.

What’s the best way to serve Cinnamon Roll Cake?

Serve it warm with a drizzle of vanilla icing on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs wonderfully with it!

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake brings all the warmth and comfort of traditional cinnamon rolls but is much easier to prepare. You can customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different frostings. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast or dessert, it’s sure to be a hit!