.png){kind=small}
Indulge in Sweet Comfort: Homemade Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Homemade Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, warm flavors of classic cinnamon rolls but wants something easier and faster to prepare. This cake captures everything people adore about bakery-style cinnamon rolls—the buttery cinnamon swirl, soft and tender crumb, and creamy glaze—without the time-consuming steps of kneading, rolling, and waiting for dough to rise.
This recipe transforms a beloved breakfast treat into a shareable cake that works beautifully for brunch, dessert, holidays, or cozy weekends at home. Each slice delivers gooey cinnamon layers and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels indulgent yet comforting.
Ingredients
For the cake batter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the cinnamon swirl
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Set aside while preparing the batter.
Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Add the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Pour the Batter
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish using a spatula. Smooth the surface so the cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and softened butter until a thick, spreadable mixture forms.
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl it through the batter to create marbled patterns. Avoid over-swirling so the layers remain distinct.
Bake the Cake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The cake should be golden and set but still soft.
Prepare the Glaze
While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the milk slightly if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
Glaze the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the surface and cracks.
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon roll cake is best served warm, when the glaze is soft and the cinnamon layers are gooey. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also works beautifully as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and eggs.
Helpful Tips for Success
Use room-temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter. Swirl the cinnamon mixture gently to avoid blending it completely into the batter. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute half the milk with cream.
Do not overbake the cake, as this can dry it out. The center should be set but soft to the touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon roll cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to restore softness and warmth.
Why This Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake Is Worth Making
This Homemade Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake delivers everything people love about classic cinnamon rolls in a simple, no-fuss format. It is comforting, indulgent, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or simply treating yourself, this cake brings warmth, sweetness, and bakery-style flavor to your table with minimal effort and maximum reward.