Why You’ll Love Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
This cake captures everything you love about a Cinnabon roll—fluffy texture, cinnamon-sugar swirls, and creamy frosting—but with half the effort. No kneading, no yeast, and no waiting for dough to rise. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Plus, it’s baked in one pan and easy to slice and serve.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cake:
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup granulated sugar
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4 teaspoons baking powder
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1 1/2 cups whole milk
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2 large eggs
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Filling:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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4 ounces cream cheese, softened
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
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Add in milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, then stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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For the cinnamon filling, mix softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until smooth.
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Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture onto the cake batter and use a knife to swirl it throughout the batter.
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Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add softened cream cheese and beat until creamy.
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When the cake is done, allow it to cool slightly. Spread the frosting evenly over the warm cake.
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Slice and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12–15 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 28–32 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes
Variations
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Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
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Make it apple-cinnamon: Mix in chopped apples to the batter or filling for a fruity twist.
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Chocolate swirl: Add mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon filling for a gooey chocolate touch.
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Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
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Drizzle instead of frosting: Skip the cream cheese frosting and use a simple powdered sugar glaze for a lighter finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, microwave individual slices for about 20–30 seconds until warm.
For a freshly baked texture, reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
FAQs
What does this cake taste like?
It tastes just like a warm Cinnabon cinnamon roll, but in soft, fluffy cake form with creamy frosting on top.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it the day before and reheat before serving. It stores well in the fridge.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Do I have to use cream cheese frosting?
No, you can use a vanilla glaze or even a buttercream frosting if you prefer.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.
How do I swirl the cinnamon filling properly?
Use a butter knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter in an “S” pattern to avoid overmixing.
Can I add raisins?
Yes, raisins can be added to the filling for a classic cinnamon roll touch.
What if I only have 2% milk?
2% milk can be used instead of whole milk, though the cake may be slightly less rich.
Can I bake this in a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pans may require longer baking, and larger pans may need less.
Is it okay to frost the cake while it’s still warm?
Yes! Spreading the frosting on a warm cake allows it to melt slightly and soak in for extra gooeyness.
Conclusion
This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake is everything you love about cinnamon rolls in a much simpler, cake-style format. It’s rich, gooey, and perfect for feeding a crowd, whether at a brunch gathering or family dessert night. If you want to impress without the hassle of yeast dough, this is your go-to treat.
