Introduction
Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is a heavenly dessert that captures the irresistible charm of Cinnabon’s classic cinnamon rolls but in a cake form. This treat boasts layers of soft, tender cake swirled with a fragrant cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a cinnamon roll without the need for yeast or extensive rolling and cutting. Get ready to indulge in the delightful world of Cinnabon right in your own kitchen.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is for anyone who adores the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls. It’s perfect for:
- Cinnamon Roll Enthusiasts: If you’re a fan of Cinnabon’s famous cinnamon rolls, you’ll love this cake.
- Baking Enthusiasts: Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is approachable and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Brunch Lovers: This cake makes a fantastic addition to a brunch or a special breakfast treat.
What Makes Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake So Special?
Sweet Cinnamon Swirl
The layers of cinnamon-sugar filling provide that classic Cinnabon taste in each bite.
No-Fuss Preparation
This cake delivers the flavors of a cinnamon roll without the complexity of traditional roll-making.
Creamy Cream Cheese Glaze
The creamy, sweet glaze drizzled over the top adds a layer of decadence to this delectable cake.
Ideal for Brunch
Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s a perfect addition to a brunch spread or a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the process of making Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake, let’s gather our ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Now, let’s get into the process of creating this irresistible Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake:
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- In a separate bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
Assemble the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the batter.
- Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon-sugar layer.
- Use a knife to create swirls by dragging it through the batter.
Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While the cake is baking, make the cream cheese glaze. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and pure vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- If the glaze is too thick, you can add a small amount of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle with Glaze
- Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes.
- Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm cake.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For baking and serving the cake.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the cake batter and the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Whisk: For mixing the wet ingredients.
- Knife: For creating the cinnamon swirls in the cake.
- Electric Mixer: For making the cream cheese glaze.
- Oven: To bake the cake to perfection.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can enjoy the cake for several days.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
While classic Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is delightful, you can experiment with variations:
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-sugar filling for a nutty crunch.
- Raisins or Dried Fruit: Add raisins, chopped dates, or dried cranberries to the filling for extra sweetness.
- Maple Glaze: Substitute the cream cheese glaze with a maple glaze for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a chocolaty twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A: You can use white sugar in the cake batter, but brown sugar is recommended for the cinnamon-sugar filling for its flavor and texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: You can use regular milk if buttermilk is not available, but buttermilk adds a slight tang and tenderness to the cake.
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it slightly in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While butter provides a richer flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if desired.
Conclusion
Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake brings the beloved flavors of Cinnabon’s cinnamon rolls into a delectable cake. With layers of sweet, cinnamon-sugar filling and a creamy cream cheese glaze, it’s a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or any time you’re craving the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls. So, gather your ingredients, create this mouthwatering cake, and indulge in a sweet swirl of delight. Don’t forget to share this fantastic recipe with your loved ones and subscribe to my blog for more culinary inspirations. Enjoy!