Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air. Whether it’s the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls or a spiced holiday treat, cinnamon has a way of making any day feel special. Enter the Cinnamon Roll Cake—a delightful fusion of the beloved cinnamon roll and a classic cake. This cake is soft, buttery, and packed with swirls of cinnamon goodness, making it a perfect alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. Not only is it easier to prepare, but it also offers the same irresistible flavors in a convenient cake form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Recipe
The Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the best elements of a cinnamon roll and a cake. It starts with a tender, buttery cake base that’s enhanced by a rich, cinnamon-infused swirl. Finished with a sweet glaze, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
– 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
– 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
– 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
– 5 tablespoons milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions/Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it generously; this will ensure that your cake releases easily after baking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well distributed.
Next, add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated. Then, pour in the melted butter and continue stirring until the batter is smooth. Once the batter is ready, pour it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients thoroughly. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and has a paste-like consistency.
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter in the baking dish. Take a knife or a toothpick and swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect throughout the cake. This step not only infuses the cake with flavor but also gives it a beautiful, artistic appearance.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before adding the glaze.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the crevices created by the cinnamon swirls. This will add an extra layer of sweetness and moisture to the cake.
FAQ
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but consider reducing the salt in the cake batter to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I prepare the cake batter in advance?
A: It’s best to bake the cake immediately after preparing the batter and cinnamon swirl to achieve the best texture and rise.
Q: How should I store leftover cake?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to three months.
Q: Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?
A: Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts and raisins can be added to the cinnamon swirl for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls and the simplicity of a cake. Its soft, buttery texture and rich cinnamon swirl make it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a dessert, or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You’ll find that it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to enjoy. Happy baking!