Name: Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-493343H39M16S
Total time: PT-493343H39M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; ⅔ cup nuts (optional); 2 cups powdered sugar; 4-5 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 13 reviews

If you love the dreamy, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but want a quicker, easier way to enjoy those same iconic flavors, the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This cake captures the perfect balance of soft, fluffy cake swirled with rich cinnamon sugar and a luxurious glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s like biting into a warm cinnamon roll with none of the fuss, making it the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a cozy pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, containing three visible layers of ingredients. On the left, there is a mound of white sugar granules next to a pile of white flour powder. To the right, two raw eggs with bright orange yolks are visible. A pale cream liquid is being poured into the bowl from above, creating a contrast with the solid ingredients below. In the background, a woman's hand is seen holding the bowl lightly, with a cinnamon stick and some walnut pieces on the marbled surface nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly simple, and each one plays an essential role in building the texture, flavor, and classic cinnamon roll experience that this cake delivers. From the buttery richness to the fragrant cinnamon swirls and sweet glaze, these elements come together to create a truly irresistible dessert.

1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds a creamy, rich base and moisture to the cinnamon filling and cake.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cake structure and tender crumb.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter evenly without overpowering it.
4 teaspoons baking powder: Responsible for that light, fluffy rise in the cake.
1½ cup milk: Keeps the batter moist and adds a slight creaminess.
2 eggs: Provide binding and add richness to the cake.
2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste: Infuses a deep, sweet vanilla aroma that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
4 tablespoons butter (melted): Incorporated into the batter for a tender crumb and subtle richness.
1 cup brown sugar: The secret to that gooey, caramelized cinnamon swirl inside the cake.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: Delivers the signature warm, spicy flavor essential to the recipe.
⅔ cups nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and extra texture if you love a nutty twist.
2 cups powdered sugar: For the sweet, creamy glaze that crowns the cake.
4-5 tablespoons milk: Used to thin out the glaze to a luscious, drip-ready consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Enhances the glaze with added depth and sweetness.

How to Make Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Next, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla bean paste until combined, then stir them into the dry ingredients. Slowly fold in the melted butter to keep the batter silky and smooth. Pour this luscious batter evenly into your prepared pan—it’s the perfect base for the irresistible cinnamon swirl to come.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a separate bowl, blend the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. This mixture is the heart of the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe, giving it that signature gooey cinnamon sugar flavor. Instead of layering, you’ll drop dollops of this mixture evenly over the cake batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it through, creating those dreamy marbled ribbons of cinnamon sweetness throughout the cake.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The top should be golden and spring back lightly to the touch. Remember the toothpick test: when inserted in the center, it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. This ensures your cake remains soft and tender while baking fully through. Once baked, pull it out and let it rest for a few minutes—soon it will be time for the best part.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze and Finish Off

The glaze truly transforms this cake into the ultimate Cinnabon-inspired treat. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste until it’s smooth and pourable. Drizzle this generously over the warm cake so it seeps into the crevices, making every bite lusciously sweet. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature for pure cinnamon roll bliss with none of the rolling or cutting required.

How to Serve Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Two square pieces of cinnamon roll cake sit on a white plate with a thin brown edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a soft, pale yellow cake base; the middle layer is a darker brown cinnamon swirl with a slightly crumbly texture; and the top layer is a thick, creamy white glaze that drips gently over the edges, adding shine and richness to the soft cake. The scene is close-up, focusing on the moist texture and the glaze sheen, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the glazed cake is stunning on its own, adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon powder adds extra visual appeal and texture. A few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate your serving and introduce complementary flavors and colors.

Side Dishes

This cake is sweet and satisfying enough to stand alone but pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a creamy latte. For an indulgent brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Cut the cake into individual squares and serve on pretty dessert plates with a mint leaf or edible flower as a garnish. Alternatively, create mini servings in ramekins with a drizzle of extra glaze on top for a whimsical, personalized touch at your next get-together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and tender. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for up to two days—perfect for quick snacks or breakfasts the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save it longer, the cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen, it will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

When serving leftovers, warming the cake slightly brings the cinnamon and butter flavors back to life. Use a microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice or warm in a low oven for 10 minutes until the glaze softens and becomes heavenly again.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely! The nuts are optional and simply add extra crunch. The cake is just as delicious without them for those with allergies or preferences.

Is vanilla bean paste necessary or can I substitute vanilla extract?

You can substitute vanilla extract if you don’t have vanilla bean paste. The paste adds a more intense vanilla flavor and little flecks of vanilla bean, but extract will still provide great flavor.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Use a toothpick to test doneness—insert it into the center, and if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I use this recipe to make muffins or cupcakes?

Definitely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin pan and bake for 18–22 minutes. Don’t forget to add the cinnamon swirl to each muffin and drizzle glaze on top for the full effect.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is the perfect cozy indulgence that brings the joy of cinnamon rolls to your table without any complicated steps. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its tender crumb, gooey cinnamon swirls, and irresistible glaze. It’s a wonderful way to warm hearts and satisfy sweet cravings, so don’t hesitate to bake a batch — your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!