Name: Cinnamon Roll Cake: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 12-16 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups buttermilk; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk, or more as needed for desired consistency

Cinnamon roll cake: just the name conjures up images of warm, gooey goodness, doesn't it? Imagine biting into a slice of heaven, where the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sweet dough meld together in perfect harmony. This isn't just any cake; it's a celebration of everything we adore about classic cinnamon rolls, but in an easier, shareable format. Forget meticulously rolling individual pastries; this recipe delivers all the satisfaction with a fraction of the effort.

While the exact origins of cinnamon rolls are debated, their popularity exploded in the 20th century, becoming a staple in bakeries and homes across the globe. The cinnamon roll cake takes that beloved tradition and elevates it, offering a delightful twist on a timeless favorite. It's the perfect centerpiece for a brunch gathering, a cozy dessert after dinner, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day.

What makes this cake so irresistible? It's the combination of textures – the soft, fluffy cake, the gooey cinnamon swirl, and the creamy frosting that blankets every bite. The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon is incredibly comforting, and the sweetness is perfectly balanced, never cloying. Plus, let's be honest, who can resist the allure of a cake that tastes like a giant, shareable cinnamon roll? Get ready to experience pure bliss with every slice!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups buttermilk

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons milk, or more as needed for desired consistency

Preparing the Cake Batter

Alright, let's get started with the cake! This part is pretty straightforward, but follow these steps carefully for the best results. We want a light and fluffy cake to complement that delicious cinnamon swirl.

Preheat and Prep: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it – it's a lifesaver! Make sure you get into all the corners so the cake doesn't stick.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking is key here to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Nobody wants a bite of pure baking soda!
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don't rush this step – it's important for incorporating air into the batter.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. So, add about a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the buttermilk, then another third of the dry ingredients, then the remaining buttermilk, and finally the last third of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Making the Cinnamon Swirl

Now for the best part – the cinnamon swirl! This is what gives the cake that classic cinnamon roll flavor. It's super easy to make, so don't worry.

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and forms a thick paste.

Assembling and Baking the Cake

Time to put it all together! This is where the magic happens. We'll layer the cake batter and cinnamon swirl to create that beautiful, swirly effect.

Pour Half the Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Spread the Cinnamon Swirl: Spoon the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, spreading it evenly. Don't worry if it's not perfect – the imperfections will add to the rustic charm of the cake.
Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon swirl, spreading it as evenly as possible. It's okay if some of the cinnamon swirl peeks through.
Swirl It Up: Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon swirl into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain distinct swirls. I like to make a figure-eight pattern across the cake.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

No cinnamon roll cake is complete without a generous layer of cream cheese frosting! This frosting is creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet. It's the perfect complement to the warm, cinnamon-y cake.

Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the best results.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This will prevent the powdered sugar from flying everywhere.
Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You may need more or less milk depending on the humidity and the consistency of your cream cheese.

Frosting and Serving

The final step! Once the cake is completely cool, it's time to frost it. This is the best part, because you know you're about to enjoy a slice of deliciousness.

Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. I like to use an offset spatula for a smooth and even finish, but a regular butter knife works just fine too.
Serve: Slice and serve! This cake is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. You can even warm it up slightly in the microwave for an extra cozy treat.

Tips and Variations:

Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for extra flavor and texture.
Raisins: Sprinkle raisins over the cinnamon swirl before adding the top layer of batter.
Apple Pie Spice: Add a teaspoon of apple pie spice to the cinnamon swirl for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Espresso Powder: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter for a subtle coffee flavor that complements the cinnamon.
Brown Butter Frosting: For a richer, nuttier frosting, brown the butter before creaming it with the cream cheese.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cake for an extra touch of sweetness.
Make it Ahead: The cake can be baked a day ahead and stored at room temperature. Frost it just before serving.
Freezing: The unfrosted cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw completely before frosting.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake! I hope you love it as much as I do. It's the perfect treat for any occasion, from a cozy weekend brunch to a special celebration.

Conclusion:

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is truly a must-try, and I'm not just saying that! It's the perfect combination of comforting flavors and easy preparation, making it ideal for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or even just a cozy weeknight dessert. Forget spending hours meticulously rolling individual cinnamon rolls; this cake delivers all the same deliciousness with a fraction of the effort. The moist, tender crumb, swirled with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar filling, and topped with a creamy glaze is simply divine. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!). But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! While the classic recipe is fantastic on its own, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: The contrast of the warm cake and cold ice cream is heavenly. A drizzle of caramel sauce would take it over the top! * Toasted pecans or walnuts: Add a handful of chopped nuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a delightful crunch. * Cream cheese frosting: Swap the traditional glaze for a tangy cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent treat. * Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake: Incorporate diced apples into the batter and cinnamon filling for a fall-inspired twist. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking would be a great addition. * Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips to the batter or cinnamon filling for a chocolatey surprise. * Espresso glaze: Infuse the glaze with a shot of espresso for a coffee-flavored kick. * Make it mini: Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual cinnamon roll cakes, perfect for parties or portion control. * Serve with fresh berries: A side of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, adds a touch of freshness and color. I truly believe that this Cinnamon Roll Cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire. It's simple enough for beginner bakers, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The aroma alone, as it bakes, is enough to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade cinnamon roll cake without all the fuss. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you make any modifications of your own? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can't wait to see your creations and hear how much you enjoyed this recipe. Happy baking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I'll do my best to answer them. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me. Enjoy every bite of this delicious and easy-to-make cake!