Iced Cinnamon Roll Cake

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Craving the irresistible flavors of cinnamon rolls but want an easier, quicker option? This Iced Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the rich taste of cinnamon sugar swirls with a moist, tender cake base and a creamy vanilla icing drizzle. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy: No need for dough rolling or complicated layering—just mix, swirl, and bake.

• Flavor-packed: The cinnamon and brown sugar swirl delivers that classic cinnamon roll taste.

• Versatile: Enjoy it warm with icing, or cool it down for a midday snack.

• Great for gatherings: Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or family breakfasts.

Ingredients Breakdown

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour — provides the cake’s structure

• 1/4 teaspoon salt — enhances flavor

• 1 cup sugar — adds sweetness

• 4 teaspoons baking powder — leavening agent for fluffiness

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk — moistens the batter

• 2 eggs — binders that help rise and texture

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract — adds warm, sweet aroma

• 1/2 cup butter, melted — adds richness and moisture

Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1 cup brown sugar — for deep caramel-like sweetness

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon — provides the signature warm spice

• 1/2 cup butter, room temperature — helps create a soft swirl

Icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar — sweet base for the glaze

• 5 tablespoons milk — thins the icing to drizzling consistency

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — adds flavor depth

Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest batter.

• Swirl the cinnamon sugar gently to avoid over-mixing and keep defined layers.

• For extra moistness, substitute 1/4 cup of milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt.

• Use a toothpick to test doneness; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Variations and Customizations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl mixture for crunch.

• Fruit Boost: Drop fresh apple chunks or raisins into the batter before swirling.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a richer spice profile.

• Glaze Swap: Try cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla icing for a tangy finish.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider.

• Pair with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

• Enjoy alongside scrambled eggs or breakfast sausage for a hearty brunch.

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, then warm before serving.

• This cake also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.

Q: Can I prepare the batter the night before?
A: It’s best to bake fresh, but you can prepare the batter and refrigerate overnight. Give it a quick stir before baking.

Q: Can I use a different pan size?
A: A 9×13-inch pan works best, but you can use an 8×8-inch pan—baking time will be longer, so adjust accordingly.

Iced Cinnamon Roll Cake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

All the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls—but in a moist, swirled cake! Topped with a dreamy vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast or dessert

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 1/2 cups milk

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 5 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.

• Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

• Gradually stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

3. Add the Cinnamon Swirl

• In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.

• Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the batter.

• Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating a marbled effect.

4. Bake the Cake

• Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool slightly.

5. Prepare and Add the Icing

• While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

• Drizzle the icing generously over the warm cake.

• Let the icing set before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

This Iced Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing the classic cinnamon roll experience. The moist cake base combined with a sweet cinnamon swirl and creamy icing makes it a perfect treat for any time of day. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy morning at home, this recipe will become a fast favorite.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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