If you have a soft spot for warm, gooey cinnamon treats but want something a little different than your classic roll, this Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine all the cinnamon-sugar goodness and that irresistible glaze, but in a tender, sliceable cake form that’s perfect for sharing or simply indulging all to yourself. It’s the kind of dessert that wraps you up in cozy comfort and leaves your kitchen smelling like a warm bakery—truly a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to pull off anytime cravings strike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe means gathering a handful of simple, familiar ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, moisture, and texture. These staples come together to create a cake that feels both rich and homey, with that signature cinnamon spice that makes every bite unforgettable.
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a subtle caramel flavor.
- 2 large Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness; flax eggs can be used for an egg-free version.
- 1 cup Buttermilk: Adds tang and keeps the crumb moist; a milk-vinegar mixture works wonderfully if you’re out of buttermilk.
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted): Brings buttery richness and moisture; vegetable oil works well for a dairy-free option.
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla really elevates the flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: Perfect for the cinnamon swirl, it adds depth and a lovely molasses note.
- 2 tablespoons Cinnamon: The star spice—adjust more or less depending on how bold you want the cinnamon flavor.
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar: For making the luscious glaze that finishes the cake with a creamy sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Milk: Helps smooth out the glaze; almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free preferences.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla: Just a touch in the glaze to tie all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your cake slides out easily after baking. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked cinnamon roll cake with no sticking or mess.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and lump-free. This blend should look creamy and pourable, promising a tender, moist cake once baked. It’s the foundation that makes this Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe so wonderfully soft.
Step 3: Pour and Spread the Batter
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. The smooth surface is ready to meet the cinnamon swirl magic that comes next, so take a moment to smooth it out carefully.
Step 4: Create and Add the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until they’re well combined. Drizzle this fragrant mixture evenly over the batter. Using the tip of a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter, but resist over-mixing—the goal is beautiful swirls that give pockets of cinnamony goodness throughout the cake.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges pull away slightly from the sides and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will instantly fill with that intoxicating cinnamon scent that promises a delicious treat is moments away.
Step 6: Whip Up the Glaze
While the cake bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and glossy. This glaze is the final touch that transforms this cinnamon roll-inspired cake into something truly indulgent and irresistible.
Step 7: Glaze and Let It Rest
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it soak into every nook and cranny. This step not only boosts the sweetness but also adds a creamy texture that mimics the classic Cinnabon frosting experience in a new, simpler form.
How to Serve Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe even more, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a handful of chopped toasted pecans for a bit of crunch and visual interest. Freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can make every bite feel like a decadent celebration.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon roll cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea, making it an ideal companion for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or afternoon treat. If serving as dessert, fresh fruit like juicy berries or sliced apples can add a refreshing contrast to the sweet spice of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting this cake into bite-sized squares for a party platter, or serve individual wedges with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. For an elegant twist, layer slices with cream cheese frosting and fresh fruit for a cinnamon roll cake trifle that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe has cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps retain the cake’s tender crumb and keeps the glaze from drying out, so every slice tastes just as fresh as the first.
Freezing
If you want to keep this cinnamon roll cake longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months, making it easy to enjoy a sweet slice whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
To revive frozen or refrigerated cake slices, warm them gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven until just heated through. This quick reheating brings back the soft, gooey texture and allows the glaze to melt slightly, recreating that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use a dairy-free alternative for the buttermilk and butter?
Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with a milk and vinegar or lemon juice mixture, and use melted vegetable oil in place of butter for a dairy-free version. Both swaps work well without compromising the flavor or texture of the cake.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs or another egg substitute, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. These tweaks keep it indulgent yet plant-based.
Is it okay to use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes! Coconut sugar adds a subtle caramel undertone that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a slightly healthier or more complex flavor profile without changing the cake’s texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
You can, although doubling means using a larger pan or baking two cakes separately. Just keep baking times in mind—they may vary depending on the thickness and size of the cake, so test for doneness with a toothpick.
What’s the best way to swirl in the cinnamon sugar?
Drizzle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the batter, then gently swirl it using the tip of a butter knife or toothpick with a light swirling motion. Avoid over-mixing to keep those signature cinnamon pockets distinct and visually appealing.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like the warm, comforting feeling that comes with making and sharing the Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe. Whether you’re baking it for a family brunch, a festive gathering, or simply to brighten your day, this cake delivers big on flavor and cozy vibes without any fuss. Give it a try soon—you might just find a new beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Print
Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Indulgent Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is a luscious dessert that captures the delightful flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make cake form. Featuring a moist, buttery cake base swirled with a generous cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, this recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s customizable with dairy-free and vegan alternatives, making it versatile for various dietary needs.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 2 large Eggs (or flax eggs for an egg-free version)
- 1 cup Buttermilk (milk-vinegar mix works if out of buttermilk)
- 1/2 cup Butter (melted) (or vegetable oil for a dairy-free alternative)
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla for the best taste)
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Cinnamon (adjust for more or less spice as preferred)
Glaze
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Milk (almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly using butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
- Pour the Batter: Transfer the prepared batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly using a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, mixing until fully blended to create the signature cinnamon swirl flavor.
- Add the Cinnamon Swirl: Drizzle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the top of the cake batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture into the batter without overmixing.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cake is done when the edges begin to pull away from the dish and a toothpick inserted centrally comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the glaze over the warm cake. Allow the glaze to soak in and set before slicing and serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegan or egg-free option, replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk alternatives.
- Substitute butter with vegetable oil to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Adjust the cinnamon amount to your personal preference for a more or less spiced swirl.
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before slicing for cleaner cuts, though glazing while warm enhances flavor infusion.
