The aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet cream cheese—pure bliss! This decadent cinnamon roll cake takes all the best parts of a classic cinnamon roll and transforms them into a stunning, easy-to-serve cake. Forget fiddling with individual rolls; this recipe delivers the same incredible flavor in a show-stopping presentation. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes This Cinnamon Roll Cake So Special?
This recipe elevates the classic cinnamon roll experience in several ways:
- Convenience: Forget the time-consuming process of shaping individual rolls. This recipe simplifies the process dramatically, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Stunning Presentation: The cake's impressive layered design makes it a conversation starter at any gathering.
- Intense Flavor: The cake layers are intensely flavorful, capturing the essence of a perfect cinnamon roll in every bite.
- Cream Cheese Icing Perfection: The rich and tangy cream cheese icing complements the warm spices perfectly, providing the ideal sweet and creamy counterpoint.
How to Make the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
This recipe focuses on creating a moist, tender cake with a perfectly balanced cinnamon swirl. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Large eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- Cream cheese, softened
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Milk (optional, for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter: Combine dry ingredients, then cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, followed by milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Create the Cinnamon Filling: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Layer the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter over the filling. Gently swirl the batter and filling together with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Icing: While the cake is cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until light and fluffy. Add milk, one teaspoon at a time, if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cake has cooled completely, frost generously with the cream cheese icing. Slice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions regarding cinnamon roll cake and their answers:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be baked a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The icing is best added just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What kind of pan should I use?
A 9x13 inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe. Using a different size pan may affect the baking time and the final texture of the cake.
Can I substitute ingredients?
While the recipe is designed for optimal results, you can experiment with some substitutions. For example, you could try using whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or substitute maple syrup for some of the granulated sugar.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the baked and frosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
This cinnamon roll cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a sweet and satisfying treat. The ease of preparation coupled with its impressive presentation makes it a standout dessert. Enjoy!
