Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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If you love the flavors of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls but crave the simplicity of a cake, this Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect treat! Featuring a soft, fluffy cake base, swirls of cinnamon-sugar goodness, and a creamy, tangy frosting, this dessert is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic Cinnamon Roll Flavor: All the deliciousness of cinnamon rolls without the effort of rolling dough.
  • Quick & Easy: Made with simple pantry staples in under an hour.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

  1. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
  2. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter.
  3. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter.

Step 3: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
  3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for a comforting treat.
  • Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or extra powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Recipe Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
  • Customizations: Add chopped pecans or raisins to the cinnamon swirl for extra texture and flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Bake the cake a day in advance and frost just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different frosting?

Yes! A simple vanilla glaze or a powdered sugar drizzle can be used as a lighter alternative to the cream cheese frosting.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for the same delicious results.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake (without frosting) for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting combines the best of both worlds—cinnamon roll flavors and cake simplicity. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give it a try, and let the swirls of cinnamon sweetness warm your heart!

Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below! 🍰

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