Name: Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-494324H53M35S
Total time: PT-494324H53M35S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 1½ cups milk; 2 eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; ⅔ cup nuts (optional); 2 cups powdered sugar; 4-5 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 49 reviews

If you adore the irresistible, gooey sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls but crave a simpler way to enjoy that flavor in a fun, shareable form, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of fluffy cake and decadent cinnamon-sugar swirls, topped with a luscious glaze that melts perfectly into every bite. Whether you’re craving a cozy weekend breakfast or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this cake captures all the magic of Cinnabon cinnamon rolls and puts it right into one pan, making it easy to create and impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface containing several ingredients in layers. At the bottom, there are two yellow eggs, surrounded by white flour on one side and granulated white sugar on the other. Light creamy milk is being poured into the bowl, blending gently with the eggs and dry ingredients. The textures vary from fine powder to smooth liquid, showing the mixing process at an early stage. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that work beautifully together to create irresistible flavors and textures. From the buttery richness to the sweet cinnamon swirls, each element plays a vital role in making this cake a standout treat.

1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the batter and the cinnamon swirl topping.
3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb for the cake.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors perfectly.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake base without overpowering the cinnamon.
4 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises light and fluffy.
1½ cups milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.
2 eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness to the cake batter.
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste: Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic notes.
4 tablespoons butter (melted): Used in the batter to incorporate a silky texture.
1 cup brown sugar: Gives the cinnamon swirl its deep molasses sweetness.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: The star spice that creates that iconic Cinnabon flavor.
⅔ cup nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and enhances texture if you love a nutty touch.
2 cups powdered sugar: For the glaze that provides the perfect sweet finish.
4-5 tablespoons milk: Blended into the glaze to create the perfect consistency for drizzling.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Adds a creamy, aromatic hint to the glaze.

How to Make Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees, ensuring it’s ready to go for baking. Using an electric or stand mixer, blend together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder which act as the foundation of the cake. Add in the milk, eggs, and vanilla bean paste to bring moisture and flavor, then slowly stir in the melted butter for richness and a tender crumb. Pour this luscious batter into a greased 9×13 inch pan, spreading it evenly as the base for your swirling cinnamon topping.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate medium bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to form a fragrant, sweet topping. If you want some added texture, toss in the nuts here as well. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture gently across the batter in the pan. Using a knife, swirl the topping into the batter, marbling the cinnamon into the cake so every bite will have that magical swirl effect.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean but still moist enough to keep this cake tender and soft. The aroma at this point is simply heavenly — your kitchen will smell like a warm Cinnabon shop inviting you to dig in.

Step 4: Drizzle with Glaze

While the cake is still warm, whip up the simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste until smooth and glossy. Drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the cake, allowing it to seep down into the swirls creating a sweet, creamy finish that brings the whole experience together beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a piece of cinnamon roll cake on a white plate with a thin brown edge. The cake has three visible layers: a light yellow fluffy cake base, a thick swirled middle layer of dark brown cinnamon filling with a slightly crumbly texture, and a top layer covered with shiny white icing that looks smooth and slightly melted. The cake piece is thick and looks soft, with the cinnamon filling unevenly spread creating swirls that contrast with the light cake. The background is a white marbled surface, out of focus, drawing attention to the cake in the front. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the glaze adds plenty of sweetness, feel free to sprinkle extra chopped nuts on top for crunch or a light dusting of cinnamon for an added aroma boost. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also pair wonderfully for a burst of freshness that balances the deep cinnamon-spiced richness.

Side Dishes

This cake is a star on its own but pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee, a steaming mug of chai, or a creamy latte to complement its warm spices. For breakfast or brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt to add bright and light contrast to the cozy cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe in beautiful individual squares on rustic wooden boards or delicate dessert plates for an inviting look. You can even turn it into a trifle by layering chunks of the cake with vanilla pudding and whipped cream in a glass bowl — a show-stopping way to impress guests and keep that cinnamon roll vibe going strong.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake can be kept covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist and prevent the glaze from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake in whole or cut into slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It freezes well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To bring the cake back to that freshly-baked warmth, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm a larger piece in the oven at 300 degrees for 10 minutes. The glaze will soften beautifully, and you’ll get that melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon roll experience all over again.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are totally optional and can be omitted if you prefer a smoother texture or have allergies. The cake will still be deliciously moist and flavorful without them.

Is there an alternative to vanilla bean paste?

You can substitute vanilla extract if you don’t have vanilla bean paste on hand. Use the same amount for a lovely vanilla flavor in both the batter and glaze.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can swap regular milk for almond, oat, or soy milk if desired. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the sweetness balance of the cake.

How do I get the swirl effect without overmixing?

After dropping the cinnamon mixture onto the batter, gently run a knife through the pan in a swirling motion. Avoid stirring too much to keep the defined marbled look and avoid blending the two layers completely.

Can this recipe be made in smaller pans?

You can adjust by using smaller pans, but baking times will vary. Keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness earlier if you use pans smaller than 9×13 inches.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that feels indulgent yet approachable, the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fills your home with the warm and comforting scents of cinnamon and vanilla. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring the cozy spirit of cinnamon rolls to your table without the fuss. Grab your ingredients, have fun with the swirling, and enjoy every luscious bite of this deliciously soft and sweet cake.