If you have a soft spot for the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but crave something easier to slice and share, this Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It captures all the magic of those classic swirled treats in a luscious, tender cake form, layered with a perfectly spiced cinnamon filling and finished with a dreamy cream cheese icing. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake combines approachable ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a truly indulgent experience that feels like a warm, welcoming hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe. Each ingredient plays its own vital role—like the tangy buttermilk lending moisture and tenderness while the cinnamon filling provides that signature sweet-spiced swirl.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This is the base fat that keeps the cake moist and rich without overwhelming the other flavors.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and that lovely rise we all want in cakes.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor with its warm, floral notes that marry beautifully with cinnamon.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the cake substance; make sure to measure properly to keep the texture just right.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the cake and filling.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a tender crumb and slight lift.
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Brings moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the cake from tasting overly sweet.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling): Ensures the cinnamon filling stays moist and rich.
- 1 cup brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar gives depth and chewy sweetness to the cinnamon filling.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for filling): Helps thicken the cinnamon filling so it swirls perfectly without running.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice of this recipe; don’t skimp here!
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for icing): Creates a creamy base for the luscious cream cheese icing.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing to just the right consistency for drizzling.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds tang and silkiness, cutting through the sweetness with a gentle richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing): Enhances the depth of flavor in the cream cheese frosting.
- Pinch of salt (for icing): Balances the sweetness and accentuates the cream cheese flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this is crucial for a tender crumb. Next, beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that subtle aroma which pairs beautifully with cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, ensuring a soft and delicate cake.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Stir these until you form a smooth, slightly thick filling. This mixture will swirl inside the batter, giving you that sweet, spiced center reminiscent of your favorite cinnamon rolls.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake Layers
Pour half of the cake batter into a prepared greased and floured baking pan. Spread about half of the cinnamon filling evenly over the batter. Then, carefully spread the remaining batter on top. Finally, dollop the remaining cinnamon filling over the surface and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together, creating beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout the cake.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through
Bake your cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan to ensure the structure sets perfectly and is easier to frost.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
While the cake cools, make the cream cheese icing by beating 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 4 ounces softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This luscious topping is the crowning glory, providing that iconic tangy richness that complements the cinnamon swirl perfectly.
Step 6: Frost and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese icing generously over the top, letting it drip down the sides if you like. The contrast of the sweet-spiced cake and rich cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible and guarantees smiles at any table.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese icing adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. Freshly grated cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also enhance the cake’s inviting look and deepen its warm aroma.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy chai latte. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light fruit salad to balance the cake’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into neat squares and serving on decorative plates with a fresh sprig of mint for a touch of color. You can also layer pieces into individual dessert cups, alternating cake and an extra spoonful of cream cheese icing or whipped cream for a stylish presentation that impresses guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe tasting fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration will extend freshness up to four days but may slightly firm the frosting.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully, allowing you to prepare ahead for gatherings or to enjoy later. Freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Reheating
If you like your cake warm, gently reheat single slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, or pop pieces into a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes. Add a little extra cream cheese icing after warming for that freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk in this recipe?
While you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk, the original recipe’s use of true buttermilk adds a slight tang and tender crumb that’s hard to replace exactly. So for best results, stick with buttermilk.
Is this cake safe for freezing after frosting?
It’s better to freeze the cake unfrosted as cream cheese icing can change texture when frozen and thawed. Apply the frosting after thawing for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe dairy-free?
You can try using dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk cultured with a bit of lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute, but the texture and flavor will slightly differ. Cream cheese icing can be replaced with a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free twist.
How do I prevent the cinnamon filling from sinking to the bottom?
Swirling the cinnamon filling gently through the batter right before baking helps distribute it evenly and prevents it from settling. Avoid mixing too vigorously to keep those signature swirls perfect!
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish or multiple pans. Keep an eye on the baking time as it may increase slightly with a thicker cake layer.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings all the comfort of cinnamon rolls into an easier-to-make cake format with every bite promising that sweet, spicy, buttery bliss we all crave. Once you try it, it will become your go-to dessert for holidays, brunches, or just a special treat at home. Trust me, you’ll want to bake this over and over again!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent 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 is a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, baked into a moist, tender cake swirled with a rich cinnamon sugar filling and topped with creamy, luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for brunch or dessert, it combines the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease of cake preparation.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 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
Cinnamon Filling
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the 2 large eggs, one at a time, then add 1 tsp vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the 1 1/2 cups of buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the cinnamon filling: In a bowl, stir together 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon until well combined and crumbly.
- Assemble the cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon filling over the batter. Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and spread carefully. Top with the remaining cinnamon filling, sprinkling evenly across the surface. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon filling into the cake batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before icing.
- Prepare the cream cheese icing: In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Ice the cake: Spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into 12 servings and enjoy your decadent cinnamon roll cake!
Notes
- Make sure all your dairy ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- Swirling the cinnamon filling gently ensures you get pockets of cinnamon flavor without mixing it completely into the cake batter.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice, let sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check baking time as it may vary slightly.
