There is nothing quite like waking up to the sweet aroma of a fresh cinnamon roll, but what if you could enjoy all those luscious flavors in a glorious slice of cake? This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe takes everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls—the tender, buttery dough, the ooey-gooey cinnamon filling, and the dreamy cream cheese icing—and transforms it into an irresistible, shareable cake. Whether you’re treating your family or impressing guests, this cake promises a delightful twist on a beloved favorite that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this amazing cake, you’ll only need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the richness of butter to the tangy buttermilk that keeps the cake tender and moist.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base that ensures a tender crumb in the cake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping with the moisture and texture of the cake.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure and richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances flavor subtly and beautifully.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure and chewiness.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to give the cake its rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to make the cake light and fluffy.
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Adds moisture and gives a soft, tender texture with a slight tanginess.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling): Delivers a rich layer that melds with the cinnamon sugar.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for filling): Adds deep, caramel notes and sweetness to the filling.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for filling): Helps thicken the filling and keep the layers distinct.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: Brings that must-have warm, spicy flavor signature to the cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for icing): Adds buttery richness to the cream cheese icing.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the icing for that perfect finish.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a luscious, tangy contrast that makes the icing unforgettable.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing): Brings depth and balance to the icing.
- Pinch of salt (for icing): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this step is key to a tender texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. This will ensure your cake batter is smooth and velvety.
Step 2: Compose the Cinnamon Filling
Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl until fully combined. This luscious filling will create the signature swirls reminiscent of traditional cinnamon rolls and infuse every bite with sweetness and spice.
Step 3: Layer the Cake and Filling
Pour half of the cake batter into a greased baking pan and spread it evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over the batter, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the filling, creating beautiful cinnamon patterns. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth out the surface carefully to keep the filling swirls intact.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible! After baking, allow the cake to cool completely before applying the cream cheese icing to prevent melting.
Step 5: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Icing
Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, blending well after each addition. Spread this luscious icing generously over the cooled cake, letting it cascade over the edges if you like extra indulgence.
How to Serve Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To give the cake an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese icing for a lovely crunch and nuttiness. A light dusting of cinnamon powder or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate its visual appeal and flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm chai latte to complement the cinnamon notes wonderfully. For an extra special brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salads or creamy yogurt parfaits to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your presentation pop by cutting the cake into neat squares or rectangles and stacking them on a beautiful platter for easy serving. Another fun idea is to serve individual slices on dessert plates with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Its moist texture actually improves as the flavors mingle, making every bite as delightful as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover cake slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, the cake stays fresh for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating
To enjoy your Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe warm, pop individual slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or place them briefly in a warm oven. This brings out the softness and revives the cream cheese icing’s luscious texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can be substituted, buttermilk is preferable because its acidity reacts with baking soda to create a tender, fluffy cake with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Can I prepare the cinnamon filling in advance?
Yes, the cinnamon filling can be mixed and refrigerated for up to two days ahead. Just give it a good stir before layering it into the cake batter.
Can I make this cake without cream cheese icing?
Certainly! While the cream cheese icing adds a classic tangy richness, you can also opt for a simple powdered sugar glaze or a drizzle of caramel sauce if you prefer something lighter.
How do I prevent the cinnamon filling from sinking to the bottom?
By swirling the filling gently into the batter and layering carefully, you create beautiful cinnamon ribbons. Avoid mixing vigorously so the filling stays suspended throughout the cake.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is truly one of those special desserts that combines comfort and elegance in every bite. It’s perfect for everything from a cozy weekend breakfast to an impressive dessert at your next gathering. I promise once you try this cake, you’ll want to keep it in your baking rotation for years to come. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s make some magic happen!
Print
Decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent recipe transforms the beloved cinnamon roll into an easy, moist, and tender layer cake. It features a tender buttermilk cake base swirled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for brunch, celebrations, or an indulgent dessert, this cake offers all the flavors of a cinnamon roll in a convenient cake form.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then add 1 tsp vanilla extract and mix well. In a separate bowl, whisk 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp baking soda. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 1/2 cups buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients, until smooth and fully combined.
- Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon. Mix until well incorporated to form a spreadable cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Layer the Cake with Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour about half of the cake batter evenly into the pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over the batter and gently swirl with a knife or skewer to create a cinnamon swirl pattern. Pour the remaining cake batter over the top and smooth the surface evenly. Add dollops of remaining cinnamon filling on top and swirl again lightly.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 4 oz softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until light and fluffy.
- Ice the Cake: Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top. Slice and serve to enjoy the rich flavors and tender crumb of this cinnamon roll-inspired cake.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese icing from melting.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
- For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the filling by up to 2 tbsp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This cake can be reheated slightly in the microwave for a warm, fresh taste.
