Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of a classic Cinnabon cinnamon roll in cake form with this mouthwatering recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the warm, aromatic spices of cinnamon with a tender, moist cake base, all topped with a sweet glaze. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat on a chilly morning or looking to impress guests with a decadent dessert, this cake is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and start baking!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2/3 cup nuts, chopped (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
For the Glaze:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4–5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Mix well to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over the batter. Use a knife to swirl the filling into the batter.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the cinnamon filling, if desired.
- Spread the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon filling layer.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
- Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake into squares and serve warm. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the cake batter and cinnamon filling ahead of time and assemble the cake just before baking for added convenience.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts from the recipe or substitute them with raisins or chopped dried fruit for a nut-free version of the cake.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe for a slightly denser texture and nuttier flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled cake (without the glaze) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I make this cake without nuts? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the nuts from the recipe or substitute them with your favorite mix-ins such as raisins, dried cranberries, or chocolate chips.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk in the glaze? A: Yes, feel free to use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk or coconut milk, in the glaze recipe.
Treat yourself to the heavenly flavors of a Cinnabon cinnamon roll with this delectable Cinnamon Roll Cake. With its moist cake base, swirls of cinnamon filling, and sweet glaze, this cake is