Why You'll Love It
- - Easy one‑bowl method saves cleanup
- - Fluffy layers soak up the cinnamon‑sugar swirl
- - Can be made ahead and reheated
- - Perfect for both breakfast and dessert
*"The cinnamon roll cake is like a cloud of sweet spice—soft, buttery, and utterly delightful!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- All‑purpose flour: Choose a sturdy flour for structure; sift it for a lighter crumb.
- Brown sugar: Adds deep molasses sweetness that pairs with cinnamon.
- Butter: Melted butter keeps the cake moist and gives a rich mouthfeel.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings the warm spice; toast it briefly for extra aroma.
- Cream cheese: Creates a tangy glaze that balances the sweet swirl.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash lifts the overall flavor without overpowering.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Measure and sift dry ingredients, melt butter, and pre‑mix the spice swirl before combining.
-
Flavor Development:
Combine cinnamon with brown sugar and butter, letting the scent fill the kitchen as the batter rests.
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Texture Control:
Fold the batter gently to keep it airy; avoid over‑mixing which can make it dense.
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Finishing Touches:
Spread the swirl on top, bake, then drizzle the cream cheese glaze while the cake is still warm.
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Serving Timing:
Allow the cake to cool just enough to set the glaze, then serve warm for the best melt‑in‑your‑mouth experience.
- Use room‑temperature eggs for a smoother batter
- Let the glaze sit a minute to thicken slightly
- Bake on the middle rack for even rise
- Store leftovers wrapped to retain moisture
Pro Tips
Well, those little adjustments can really raise the cake from good to unforgettable. I’ve found that letting the batter rest for ten minutes lets the flour fully hydrate, giving a tender crumb. And when you drizzle that cream cheese glaze, watch how it slowly pools into the swirls—that’s the magic moment. So, if you’re planning a weekend brunch, consider preparing the batter ahead of time; you’ll only need to bake and glaze when guests arrive. It’s a small convenience that makes the whole experience feel more relaxed and generous.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Do not over‑mix the batter
- Allow the glaze to set slightly
- Serve warm for best texture
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make this cake gluten‑free?
Yes, substitute the all‑purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is also gluten‑free.
→ How do I keep the cake moist?
Cover the cake loosely with foil while it cools, and store it in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
→ Can I add nuts to the swirl?
Absolutely—chopped pecans or walnuts add a pleasant crunch and complement the cinnamon.
→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm a slice in a microwave for 20‑30 seconds or lightly toast in a skillet to revive the softness.
→ Is this recipe suitable for a dairy‑free diet?
Swap butter for a plant‑based alternative and use a dairy‑free cream cheese substitute for the glaze.
→ How long will the cake stay fresh?
Stored properly, it stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.
Chef's Tips
If you prefer a richer flavor, use brown butter in the batter.,A pinch of nutmeg in the swirl adds depth without overwhelming the cinnamon.,For a festive touch, sprinkle toasted pecans over the glaze before serving.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
380
Calories
6g
Protein
55g
Carbs
15g
Fat
Taste Profile
Warm, sweet, and subtly spiced with caramel notes
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Will make the cake slightly lighter but keep the moisture.
Adds a subtle coconut aroma; use the same quantity.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add 1/2 tsp ground ginger and a pinch of cayenne to the cinnamon swirl for a gentle heat.
Mediterranean Style
Stir in crumbled feta and chopped olives into the batter, then finish with a drizzle of honey.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Over‑mixing the batter, which can make the cake dense.
- Baking at too high a temperature, causing a dry top.
- Adding the swirl too early, leading to burnt sugar.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the batter a day ahead, store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready. The glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, covering to keep moisture, or microwave for 15‑20 seconds per slice.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Gather and measure all ingredients; preheat oven.
Mix dry ingredients and whisk wet ingredients separately.
Combine wet and dry mixtures gently; prepare cinnamon swirl.
Layer batter and swirl in pan, then bake.
Prepare glaze while cake cools; drizzle over warm cake.
Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
A soft, sweet cinnamon roll cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate—fluffy layers, fragrant spice, perfect for a lazy morning or an afternoon treat.
Timing
Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 2 cups all‑purpose flour
- 02 1 cup brown sugar
- 03 1 cup whole milk
- 04 1/2 cup melted butter
- 05 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 06 2 tsp baking powder
- 07 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 08 1/2 tsp salt
- 09 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 01 1/3 cup melted butter
- 02 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 03 2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 01 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 02 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 03 1 cup powdered sugar
- 04 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9‑inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; set aside.
In another bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated—don’t over‑mix.
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan, then drizzle the cinnamon swirl (butter, brown sugar, cinnamon) over it, using a spoon to create ribbons.
Top with the remaining batter, smoothing the surface gently.
Bake for 30‑35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake cools, whisk together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth; drizzle over the warm cake.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If you prefer a richer flavor, use brown butter in the batter.
- 2 A pinch of nutmeg in the swirl adds depth without overwhelming the cinnamon.
- 3 For a festive touch, sprinkle toasted pecans over the glaze before serving.
Tools You'll Need
-
9‑inch round cake pan
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Mixing bowls
-
Whisk
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Spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
Must-Know Tips
- Don't overmix the batter, gentle folds keep it airy.
- Let the glaze sit a minute, it will thicken just enough.
- Cool the cake slightly before glazing to avoid runoff.
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature eggs ensure even mixing.
- Sift flour for a lighter crumb.
- Use a silicone brush for an even swirl distribution.
Recipe by
Mason Cole“Sweet cravings are my specialty! I turn sugar, chocolate, and imagination into pure dessert magic.” 🍰✨
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