Grandma’s Cinnamon Roll Cake with a Sweet Sugar Swirl

If you ask me, nothing beats the smell of warm cinnamon wafting through the house. It’s cozy, inviting, and makes any day feel special. My grandma’s Cinnamon Roll Cake is a recipe I treasure. It takes the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll and transforms them into an easy-to-make cake.

Watch my video below for a simple, step-by-step guide to making this delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake. Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more sweet recipes and baking tips!


Why This Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake is a Game-Changer

Cinnamon Roll Cake
  1. All the Flavor, Less Effort: Get cinnamon roll goodness without the hassle of rolling dough.
  2. Soft and Moist: A fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
  3. Swirls of Cinnamon Goodness: To me, the best part is the gooey cinnamon swirls baked into every bite. You don’t just taste it; you feel it!
  4. Perfect Anytime: Great for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions.
  5. Beginner-Friendly: Quick, simple, and no yeast required.
  6. Heavenly Aroma: Fills your home with warm cinnamon vibes.
  7. Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or your favorite flavors.

What You Need to Make this Easy Cinnamon Roll Cake

To me, the best recipes are the ones that use simple, everyday ingredients—just like this Cinnamon Roll Cake!

Cinnamon Roll Cake

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) melted butter

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

  • 1 cup (227 grams) softened butter
  • 1 cup (200 grams) packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (16 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon of ground Ceylon cinnamon


Simply Organic Ceylon Ground Cinnamon, 2.08 Ounce, Non-GMO Organic Cinnamon Powder
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For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This Cinnamon Roll Cake at Home

Here’s how you can easily bake this soft, gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake at home—perfect for a sweet start to your day or a comforting treat anytime!

How to Make a Cinnamon Roll Cake at Home

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This creates a nice, even base for the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, combine the milk, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Pro Tip: If you ask me, nothing beats how silky batter turns out when everything starts at room temp.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, gently folding them together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 4: Grease the Baking Dish

Grease a 13×9-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with a thin layer of cooking butter or oil to prevent the cake from sticking.


DOWAN Casserole Dish, 9x13 Ceramic Baking Dish, Large Lasagna Pan Deep for Oven, 4.2 Quarts Baking Pan with Handles, Oven Safe and Durable Bakeware for Lasagna, Home Decor, Wedding Gift, White
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Step 5: Pour and Set Aside

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared dish, then set it aside for a while.

Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until it forms a thick paste.

Step 7: Swirl the Cake

Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture across the surface of the cake batter. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl it into the batter, reaching all the way to the bottom for maximum cinnamon goodness.

Top Tip: Trust me, swirling the cinnamon mixture in properly makes all the difference. Don’t rush it!

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pop the cake into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and your kitchen smells heavenly.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze

Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, letting it soak into the swirls and spread over the top. Whether you use a spoon or pour it directly from the bowl, be sure to cover every corner for that ideal sweet touch.

Quick Note: You can double the glaze recipe if you’re a fan of extra sweetness—it’s worth it!

Looking for the perfect pairing? Click here to check out my Creamy Sugar-Free Ice Cream Recipe—it’s the ultimate match for my delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake!

Soft and Gooey Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe

Recipe by Jen Evansy
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories

320

kcal
Total Time

45

minutes

This isn’t just a cake—it’s a slice of comfort. The cinnamon swirls remind me of cozy mornings, and the buttery glaze ties it all together. It’s like a giant cinnamon roll, but easier to make and share. Honestly, I no longer bother with traditional rolls because this is just as good (if not better!).

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

  • 4 teaspoons (20 grams) baking powder

  • 1⁄4 teaspoon (1.5 grams) salt

  • 1.5 cups (360 milliliters) milk

  • 2 teaspoons (11 grams) vanilla extract

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1⁄4 cup (57 grams) melted butter

  • 1 cup (227 grams) softened butter

  • 1 cup (200 grams) packed brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons (16 grams) all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon (8.5 grams) ground Ceylon cinnamon

  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) milk

  • 1 teaspoon (5.5 grams) vanilla extract

Directions

  • Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly mixed to create a solid base for your batter.Combine the Dry Ingredients
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the milk, vanilla, eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy.Mix the Wet Ingredients
  • Bring It All Together: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Gently fold them together until the batter is silky and free of lumps.Bring It All Together
  • Prep the Baking Dish: Coat a 13×9-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with a light layer of butter or oil to prevent sticking.Prep the Baking Dish
  • Spread the Batter: Pour the batter into your prepared dish and smooth it out evenly. Set it aside while you make the cinnamon swirl.Spread the Battern
  • Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Mix well until it forms a thick, smooth paste.Make the Cinnamon Filling
  • Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture: Spoon the cinnamon paste over the batter in small dollops. Use a knife or skewer to swirl it through the batter, making sure to reach the bottom for even distribution.Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture
  • Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The incredible aroma will let you know it’s almost ready.Bake the Cake
  • Make the Glaze: As the cake bakes, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir until the glaze is smooth and slightly runny.Make the Glaze
  • Add the Glaze: Once the cake is warm and out of the oven, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Let it soak into the cinnamon swirls for the ultimate sweet finish. Make sure to coat every inch for maximum flavor!Add the Glaze

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Room-Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened, and your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
  • Deep Swirls: Swirl the cinnamon paste all the way to the bottom of the batter for even flavor.
  • Warm It Up: Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to recreate that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
  • Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon swirl for added texture.
  • Double the Glaze: If you’re a glaze lover, double the recipe for extra coverage.
  • Freezing Tips: This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices and thaw for a quick treat.

Nutrition Facts

  • Total number of serves: 12
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 5g

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Check out also: If you love a cozy, wholesome treat, you’ve got to check out this Easy Oatmeal Apple Cake—soft, spiced, and seriously delicious!

Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Cake

  • Breakfast Treat: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate cozy morning.
  • Dessert Delight: Warm it up and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—absolute perfection.
  • Holiday Brunch Star: I think this cake was made to be the centerpiece of any festive table.

How to Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Cake

How to Customize Your Cinnamon Roll Cake
  • Add a Fruity Twist: Swirl in a layer of apple or pear compote for a cinnamon roll meets fruit pie vibe. Trust me, it’s amazing!
  • Chocolate Lover’s Upgrade: I like to sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter or over the cinnamon swirl—it adds such a rich, decadent touch that I can’t resist!
  • Citrus Kick: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter or glaze for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the regular glaze with a tangy cream cheese version for that classic cinnamon roll frosting feel.
  • Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an extra indulgent finish.

Can You Make It Ahead? Absolutely!

Reheat for Freshness
  • Bake It Early: You can make the cake a day ahead, and it tastes even better once the flavors settle in.
  • Reheat for Freshness: If you ask me, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave makes leftovers taste oven-fresh.
  • Freeze It for Later: This cake freezes beautifully. Slice it up, wrap it individually, and you’ve got a ready-to-go treat anytime!

Questions or Want to Share Your Experience?

Tried this Cinnamon Roll Cake? I’d love to hear about it! Share your thoughts or subscribe to my channel on YouTube. Need help? Let me know in the comment below! – Jen

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About Jen Evansy

Nutritionist, researcher, avid home cook, and writer interested in everything nutrition and food-related. Striving to inform, encourage, and inspire all the readers to make healthy and informed choices when it comes to cooking, food, diet, and nutrition.