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Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe

If you are ready to indulge in a treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, then the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. This cake brilliantly captures the irresistible swirl of cinnamon rolls with moist layers and a luscious cream cheese icing, offering a truly comforting and flavorful experience. Every bite combines the soft texture of cake with the sweet, spicy goodness of cinnamon, making it an unforgettable delight for any occasion.

Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe comes from simple, pantry staples that each play a crucial role in bringing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the richness of butter to the tang of buttermilk, let’s explore the essentials.

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake base.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light texture.
  • 2 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture for that perfect cake consistency.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm aromatic notes.
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our cake, lending softness and body.
  • 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and boosts the other flavors.
  • 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the cake rises to fluffy perfection.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps with leavening and browning.
  • 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the cinnamon filling beautifully.
  • For the cinnamon filling: 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon—these create that unmistakable swirl of cinnamon delight.
  • For the cream cheese icing: 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt combine for a rich and tangy topping that’s the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Begin by creaming together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer. This step is important because it traps air, helping your cake become wonderfully tender. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting aroma. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour, mixing just until combined to keep the batter light and moist.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Filling

In a bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon together until smooth. This filling is the soul of the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe, delivering that sweet, spicy swirl we all love. The flour helps to thicken the filling, so it doesn’t just run all over your cake but stays beautifully swirling inside.

Step 3: Layer the Batter and Filling

Pour half of the cake batter evenly into a greased baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the cinnamon filling over the batter and gently swirl it using a knife or skewer to create that classic cinnamon roll effect. Carefully spread the remaining batter on top and repeat with more cinnamon filling swirls. This layering technique ensures every slice looks as enticing as it tastes.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean, and the edges are lightly golden. The tender, moist crumb combined with the gooey cinnamon swirls makes this cake irresistible straight from the oven.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While the cake cools, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until glossy and spreadable. This icing is luscious and tangy, the perfect finish for the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe that adds richness and a touch of indulgence.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese icing on top. You want enough to contrast with the warm cinnamon filling but not overpower it. Slice into squares and get ready to delight in every delicious bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate your Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving. Freshly chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cake. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a beautiful glossy touch and an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake stands on its own as a luscious dessert, but pairing it with fresh seasonal fruits like berries or sliced apples is a fantastic way to add freshness and balance the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can transform it into an extraordinary treat perfect for cozy brunches or special celebrations.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake warm on a rustic wooden board for a homestyle vibe or place individual squares on elegant dessert plates with a side of fresh mint for a pop of color. You can also cut the cake into mini squares and place toothpicks in each for bite-sized party treats that will disappear fast! No matter how you present it, this recipe brings charm and deliciousness to any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the cake moist and the icing fresh. Beyond that, refrigeration is recommended, where it can last up to five days without losing its incredible texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The cake freezes beautifully for up to three months and thaws quickly in the fridge overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy days.

Reheating

To enjoy the cinnamon roll cake warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 10 minutes. This warms the cake and softens the icing slightly, making it taste freshly baked with all the comforting aromas that make the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added to it to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps the cake rise and keeps it tender. However, using real buttermilk will yield the best flavor and texture for this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for making cupcakes?

Absolutely! The batter and cinnamon filling can easily be adapted for cupcake liners. Fill each liner halfway with batter, add a teaspoon of cinnamon filling, then top with more batter and a swirl of filling on top before baking. Just reduce baking time to about 18-22 minutes.

Can I make the cream cheese icing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese icing a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whisk before spreading to restore its creamy texture.

What if I don’t have an electric mixer?

You can mix the batter and icing by hand using a sturdy wooden spoon or whisk, although it may take a bit more effort. Focus on creaming the butter and sugar really well to incorporate air for a lighter cake.

How thick should I swirl the cinnamon filling?

The swirls should be generous enough to taste in every bite but not so thick that they overwhelm the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl just a few times; the filling will spread while baking, creating perfect ribbons of cinnamon goodness.

Final Thoughts

Making the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe is like inviting a little joy into your kitchen that everyone will appreciate. Its rich swirl of cinnamon, tender crumb, and luscious cream cheese icing come together in a way that’s both nostalgic and special. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy sharing it as much as I do – it’s one of those cakes that feels like a cozy celebration with every bite.

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Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe


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4 from 26 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This decadent Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the soft, fluffy texture of a cake with the irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl of a classic cinnamon roll. Topped with a luscious cream cheese icing, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you crave a sweet treat with warm spices.


Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  2. Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and crumbly.
  3. Assemble the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the entire cinnamon filling evenly over the batter layer. Carefully spread the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out to cover the cinnamon filling.
  4. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan to room temperature.
  5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until the icing is fluffy and well combined.
  6. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Make sure all butter and cream cheese are softened for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
  • The cinnamon filling can be adjusted by adding more or less cinnamon depending on your preference.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, use regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes before using.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • This cake can be warmed slightly before serving for a fresh-baked feel.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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