Craving that warm, gooey goodness of a Cinnabon but don't have the time or energy for individual rolls? Then get ready to be amazed! This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe delivers all the iconic cinnamon roll flavor in one magnificent, easy-to-make cake. It’s the perfect dessert for a cozy night in, a weekend brunch, or any occasion that calls for a truly delicious and impressive treat. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas (yes, dessert counts!), and healthy meals – as you can adjust the sweetness and ingredients to fit your preferences.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (170g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and releases easily.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This is a simple step, but crucial for even leavening.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where you can use an electric mixer for ease.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix!
Making the Magic: The Cinnamon Filling
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well blended. This mixture will be the heart of the Cinnabon flavor.
Assembling the Cake
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the batter.
- Pour the remaining cake batter over the filling and spread to create an even layer.
Baking and Frosting: The Final Touches
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; ovens can vary.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost generously and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use brown butter in the cake batter.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling for added texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in both the cake and filling.
- For a fun twist, use different types of frosting, such as chocolate or caramel.
- Make individual cinnamon roll cakes using muffin tins for portion control.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredient measurements.
This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with minimal effort. Its simple steps and delicious results make it a perfect addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you'll be delighted with the outcome. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!