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
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Quick & easy: No need for dough rolling or complicated layering—just mix, swirl, and bake.
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Flavor-packed: The cinnamon and brown sugar swirl delivers that classic cinnamon roll taste.
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Versatile: Enjoy it warm with icing, or cool it down for a midday snack.
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Great for gatherings: Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or family breakfasts.
Ingredients Breakdown
Dry Ingredients:
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3 cups all-purpose flour — provides the cake’s structure
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1/4 teaspoon salt — enhances flavor
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1 cup sugar — adds sweetness
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4 teaspoons baking powder — leavening agent for fluffiness
Wet Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups milk — moistens the batter
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2 eggs — binders that help rise and texture
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract — adds warm, sweet aroma
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1/2 cup butter, melted — adds richness and moisture
Cinnamon Swirl:
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1 cup brown sugar — for deep caramel-like sweetness
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1 tablespoon cinnamon — provides the signature warm spice
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1/2 cup butter, room temperature — helps create a soft swirl
Icing:
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2 cups powdered sugar — sweet base for the glaze
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5 tablespoons milk — thins the icing to drizzling consistency
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract — adds flavor depth
Tips and Tricks
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Use room temperature ingredients for the smoothest batter.
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Swirl the cinnamon sugar gently to avoid over-mixing and keep defined layers.
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For extra moistness, substitute 1/4 cup of milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
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Use a toothpick to test doneness; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Variations and Customizations
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl mixture for crunch.
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Fruit Boost: Drop fresh apple chunks or raisins into the batter before swirling.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the cinnamon sugar for a richer spice profile.
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Glaze Swap: Try cream cheese frosting instead of vanilla icing for a tangy finish.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider.
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Pair with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
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Enjoy alongside scrambled eggs or breakfast sausage for a hearty brunch.
Storage Instructions
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Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
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For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, then warm before serving.
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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.