There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. But what if you could transform that irresistible flavor into an easy-to-make cake? Enter the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake—a dessert that captures the soft, gooey goodness of a cinnamon roll and combines it with the simplicity of a sheet cake. This cake is perfect for gatherings, brunches, or just a sweet indulgence at home. With its tender crumb, swirls of cinnamon-sugar filling, and a delicious cream cheese glaze, this cake will satisfy all your cravings.
What is a Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake?
The Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is inspired by the famous Cinnabon cinnamon rolls, known for their large, fluffy rolls filled with buttery cinnamon-sugar and topped with creamy icing. This cake version takes the best parts of those cinnamon rolls—rich, buttery layers and a decadent cream cheese frosting—and simplifies the process. The cake batter itself is infused with cinnamon and vanilla, while a cinnamon-sugar swirl adds a gooey, sweet center to each slice. It’s all topped off with a luscious glaze that melts into the warm cake, making every bite a burst of cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients for Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cinnamon-scented cake:
For the Cake Batter:
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cake.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the cake.
- Eggs: For richness and binding.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the batter.
the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
- Brown Sugar: For a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon: The star ingredient that gives the cake its signature flavor.
- Melted Butter: Helps create the gooey swirl within the cake.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- Cream Cheese: A key component of any Cinnabon-inspired recipe.
- Powdered Sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the glaze.
- Milk: To thin the glaze to the perfect pouring consistency.
How to Make Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter—you want it to be light and fluffy.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Melt the butter and pour it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, stirring until it forms a thick paste. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter and use a knife to swirl it through the cake, creating beautiful ribbons of cinnamon-sugar throughout.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when gently pressed.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract and milk. Mix until the glaze is smooth and pourable, but thick enough to stick to the cake. If necessary, add more milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan. While the cake is still warm, pour the cream cheese glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake and coat it with a rich layer of sweetness.
Step 6: Serve
Let the cake sit for a few minutes to allow the glaze to set, then slice and serve. The cake is best enjoyed warm, with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
Tips for the Best Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth glaze.
- Customizable Toppings: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can top the cake with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Storing the Cake: This cake keeps well for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If reheating, do so gently in the microwave to warm it up without drying it out.