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Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Cake delivers the warm, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-bake cake form. Featuring a soft, tender crumb swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, this versatile cake is perfect for breakfasts, brunches, desserts, or sweet snacks, pleasing bakers and taste buds of all levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for cinnamon swirl)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup sour cream

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (preferably freshly ground)
  • 3 tablespoons softened butter

Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together ½ cup softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the mixture of milk combined with sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined and smooth.
  2. Make the Cinnamon Swirl: Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and 3 tablespoons softened butter until it forms a spreadable paste. This will create the signature cinnamon flavor and swirl.
  3. Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the cake batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon layer through the batter to create beautiful ribbons.
  4. Bake: Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to preserve texture.
  5. Frost the Cake: Beat cream cheese and ¼ cup butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for better texture and even mixing.
  • Mix batter just until combined to prevent a dense cake.
  • Swirl the cinnamon paste gently to keep distinct patterns.
  • Cool the cake completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
  • Use freshly ground cinnamon for the most vibrant flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Cake, cinnamon swirl cake, cream cheese frosting, easy cinnamon dessert, breakfast cake