Cinnamon Roll Cake

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the soft, fluffy texture of a cake with the sweet, comforting swirl of cinnamon rolls, then this Cinnamon Roll Cake is exactly what you need. I remember making this on a lazy Sunday morning, and the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar filling the kitchen instantly drew everyone in. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s simple, approachable, and perfect for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cake is soft, moist, and has a wonderful cinnamon swirl running through it. The sweet glaze on top makes every bite feel like a special treat, even for an ordinary morning. Kids love the swirls, and adults can’t resist a slice with coffee. It’s easy to make, customizable, and has a homemade feel that makes everyone smile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted (slightly cooled)

And For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ¾ cup salted butter, softened (1 ½ sticks)
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 5 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake

Preparing the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla, and milk. Slowly add the melted butter while mixing. Stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so keep it light. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan.

Making the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over the cake batter. Use a butter knife to swirl the filling through the batter for a marbled effect. This step is fun and gives the cake its signature look.

Baking the Cake

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze. If you prefer, you can enjoy it warm straight from the oven.

Making the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar to thicken or more milk to thin. Pour the glaze over the warm cake. This cake can be served warm or at room temperature for easier slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Use room temperature ingredients to make a smooth batter.
  • Don’t overmix the cake batter to avoid a tough texture.
  • Swirl the cinnamon filling in random patterns for a rustic, homemade look.
  • Serve with coffee, tea, or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Soft and gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake drizzled with sweet glaze in a baking dish

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another name for a cinnamon roll? Some people call it a cinnamon bun or cinnamon swirl. This cake combines the flavors into a simpler dessert.

Can I make a cinnamon roll cake with cake mix? Absolutely. Use a white or yellow cake mix and follow the same cinnamon swirl method.

How long will this cake stay fresh? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I freeze this cake? Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Cozy fall recipes and décor inspiration: https://sophiadecor.com/happy-fall-cozy-recipes-decor-ideas/
Baking iced sugar cookies for fall gatherings: https://sophiadecor.com/iced-sugar-cookies-recipe/
Sweet and spiced treats like pumpkin cookies: https://sophiadecor.com/pumpkin-cookies-recipe/

Follow more cozy dessert ideas on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Ritzyrecipes/

Print
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Soft and gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake drizzled with sweet glaze in a baking dish

Cinnamon Roll Cake


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Ridiculously easy, ultra-moist pumpkin bars loaded with melty chocolate chips—perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or anytime you need a quick sweet fix.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla (preferably Mexican)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Melt 1 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add pumpkin pie spice and toast briefly.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in both sugars until smooth.
  4. Stir in pumpkin puree, vanilla, and salt.
  5. Add the egg and stir vigorously to prevent curdling.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Stir into the pumpkin mixture until just combined.
  7. Spread batter in prepared pan. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top and fold a few in gently.
  8. Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with crumbs (not wet batter).
  9. Cool before slicing or lifting out with parchment.

Notes

To enhance spice flavor, toast the pumpkin pie spice in the butter. For even chocolate distribution, fold in chips at the end and leave some on top to melt beautifully.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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