Description
This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake captures the indulgent flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in an easy-to-make cake form. With swirls of cinnamon sugar and optional nuts, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 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
Cinnamon Swirl Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ⅔ cup nuts (optional)
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4-5 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 4 teaspoons baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk 1½ cups milk, 2 eggs, and 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste until well blended.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently. Once combined, slowly mix in the 4 tablespoons of melted butter until the batter is smooth.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased 9×13 inch pan, spreading it out for a uniform layer.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and ⅔ cup of nuts if using. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Swirl: Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cake batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out nearly clean.
- Prepare Glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar, 4-5 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste in a medium-sized bowl until smooth.
- Glaze Cake: When the cake is done baking and still warm, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top of the cake.
- Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- The glaze consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less milk according to your preference.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- Warm the cake slightly before serving to revive the glaze and enhance flavor.
