If you adore all the comfort of cinnamon rolls but crave something easier to serve a crowd, this Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent recipe is about to become your new go-to! Every tender bite swirls with cinnamon-sugar bliss, a buttery crumb, and that irresistible creaminess sweetened by a dreamy glaze. Imagine the glory of classic breakfast rolls, but in glorious, shareable cake form that’s just as perfect for a celebration as it is for a cozy brunch at home. If you love cozy baking projects (without all the fuss), you’re about to fall head over heels for Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s downright amazing how you can transform a handful of common kitchen staples into something as spectacular as Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent. Each ingredient does its delicious duty: some create that fluffy, tender texture, others bring decadence with deep flavor, and a couple finish things off with a glorious, gooey drizzle. Here’s the breakdown of what you need and why:
- Granulated Sugar: The sweetness base for both flavor and essential moisture in the cake.
- Unsalted Butter (softened & melted): Rich, creamy texture and a buttery flavor—use part for the cake and part for that signature cinnamon swirl.
- Large Eggs: Vital for holding everything together and giving the cake a beautiful, tender crumb.
- Sour Cream: The secret to an ultra-moist, rich cake with a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Milk: Added for both moistness and to create a fluffy, light bite in your cake.
- Vanilla Extract: Infuses every forkful with warm, sweet flavor and aromas.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure—your cake will rise perfectly and hold its shape.
- Baking Powder: Ensures a gentle lift so your cake is never dense, always soft and lofty.
- Salt: Just enough to balance all the sweet notes and enrich every flavor.
- Brown Sugar (for swirl): Brings molasses-rich depth and gooey, caramel-like pockets throughout.
- Ground Cinnamon (for swirl): The hero of the show, giving that classic, aromatic warmth we all love.
- Powdered Sugar (for glaze): Blends up ultra-smooth and makes the final drizzle beautifully sweet and picturesque.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which is the perfect sweet-spot temperature for a cake like this. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan generously—you want every luscious swirl of your Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent to release effortlessly after baking. This step is all about setting yourself up for foolproof, fluffy success!
Step 2: Cream and Combine
In a large mixing bowl, cream together your granulated sugar and softened butter until it’s pale, light, and fluffy—this will seriously set the stage for a tender cake. Add in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then gently incorporate the sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract. The mixture will look lavish and creamy, promising extra-moist Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent right from the start.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
Whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution, so you don’t end up with little clusters of baking powder or salt in your cake. Gradually fold the dry mixture into your wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix so your Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent comes out incredibly soft and tender.
Step 4: Swirl In The Cinnamon Magic
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a thick paste. Drop spoonfuls of this spiced swirl goodness all over your batter, then use a knife to gently create beautiful, marbled patterns. This step is where the Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent truly lives up to its name—don’t swirl too much, or you’ll lose those irresistible pockets of flavor!
Step 5: Bake To Perfection
Bake your cake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Your entire kitchen will smell like a cinnamon-butter hug! Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan—just enough that it’s still warm, but firm enough to slice.
Step 6: Finish With The Dreamiest Glaze
While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the entire warm cake. It sinks into the cinnamon crevices and sets into that decadent finish everyone craves in Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent
Garnishes
For Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent, a little flair goes a long way. Sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the still-warm glaze for a nutty crunch, or dust with extra cinnamon for a burst of color and aroma. Fresh berries on the side can add a pop of color and brightness if you want to keep it simple yet striking.
Side Dishes
This cake shines alongside a steaming mug of coffee or a glass of cold milk, especially for a cozy brunch. Try pairing it with softly scrambled eggs, crispy breakfast potatoes, or even a fruit salad to round out your spread and complement the sweet spice of Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent in generous squares on a pretty platter, or get creative and cut your cake into rounds using a biscuit cutter for that true cinnamon roll feel. If you’re feeling decadent, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for a dessert that’s over-the-top delightful!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days. Just keep it in an airtight container so it stays moist and perfectly rich. After a couple of days, transfer any remaining slices to the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Freezing
If you’d like to make this treat even further ahead, you can absolutely freeze it. Wrap cooled, unglazed cake squares individually in plastic wrap, tuck them inside a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to three months. Glaze after thawing to preserve the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
When you crave a warm piece, microwave slices of Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness. If you’re reheating a larger batch, pop it in a 300°F oven covered with foil for about 10 minutes to keep it soft.
FAQs
Can I add nuts or raisins to Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent?
Yes, absolutely! If you love some crunch or chewy bits, go ahead and add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even raisins to the cinnamon swirl layer. About a half cup of either works beautifully without overpowering the cake.
Is there a way to make Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent ahead of time for brunch?
Definitely—just bake as directed, cool completely, then cover tightly. It’s wonderful reheated in the oven or microwave, and you can even apply the glaze just before serving for optimal freshness.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free baking flour blend. The structure may be a bit softer, but the cake will still be moist, flavorful, and delicious.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
No worries! You can substitute full-fat plain Greek yogurt or even buttermilk, and your Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent will still turn out moist and tangy with a classic crumb.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent is done baking?
The cake is finished when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake—keeping it a little underbaked ensures an ultra-soft, gooey center!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this recipe enough—Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent is pure comfort and celebration, all in one gooey, aromatic bite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday brunch or just as a special treat to perk up the weekend, give it a try and prepare for rave reviews. You’ll love how simple, lovely, and utterly decadent it is!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Cake Decadent Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in cake form with this easy and delicious recipe for Cinnamon Roll Cake. A moist and tender cake swirled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a sweet glaze, this dessert is perfect for breakfast or any time you crave a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Main Cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cinnamon swirl:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Make the cake batter: Cream together granulated sugar and softened butter. Add eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Assemble and bake: Spread the cake batter in the pan, add spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture, swirl gently, and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Make the glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over the warm cake before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl.
- This cake is best served warm but can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
