Name: Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ⅔ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for swirl); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)

Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend morning to the scent of sweet cinnamon, warm vanilla, and buttery brown sugar floating through your home. That’s exactly what this Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake delivers: all the flavor of your favorite mall treat, baked into a soft, gooey, pull-apart cake that hits every note of indulgence.

This dessert is rich, comforting, and perfectly layered with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl that melts into the cake as it bakes. Topped with a silky glaze that seeps into every crevice, it’s hard to stop at just one slice. Whether you serve it as a breakfast treat, dessert for a gathering, or just because you need a little sweetness in your day, this cake is pure joy.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cake is a time-saving twist on classic cinnamon rolls. No waiting for dough to rise, no kneading, no rolling. You get all the gooey, cinnamon-rich decadence of cinnamon rolls in a fast, oven-baked format that comes together with pantry staples. It’s ideal for both last-minute cravings and planned gatherings.

Plus, it stores well, making it perfect to bake ahead. The flavor deepens overnight, and a quick reheat brings the ooey-gooey texture right back to life. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to bookmark forever.

What Kind of Cinnamon Should I Use?

For the best flavor, go with Saigon cinnamon if you can find it. It has a bold, slightly sweet edge that intensifies the classic cinnamon roll flavor. That said, regular ground cinnamon still works beautifully and keeps the essence of the cake intact. If you like a hint of warmth, adding a pinch of nutmeg can round things out even further.

Ingredients for the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cinnamon roll cake is built from scratch with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role in creating the fluffy texture and gooey swirl that defines the cake.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure and absorbs moisture for a tender crumb.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake batter and helps create a golden finish.
Baking powder: Leavens the cake, helping it rise into soft, fluffy layers.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the batter.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
Unsalted butter: Used in both the batter and cinnamon swirl for richness and that signature buttery taste.
Brown sugar: Essential in the cinnamon swirl for that deep caramel-like sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cake its unmistakable aroma and warmth.
Powdered sugar: For the glaze, creating a smooth, sweet topping.
Milk or cream (for glaze): Adjusts the glaze consistency and adds a creamy finish.

How To Make the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Slowly combine the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until blended. Fold in melted butter last to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a smaller bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until it forms a thick paste.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Pour the cake batter into a greased baking dish. Dollop the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the batter. Don’t overmix – you want thick, gooey ribbons of cinnamon throughout.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly puffed.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

While the cake is still warm, whisk together powdered sugar and milk (or cream) to form a glaze. Drizzle generously over the warm cake so it melts into every cinnamon-filled swirl. Serve immediately or let it cool slightly for neater slices.

How to Serve and Store This Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cake is made to be shared. It generously serves 10 to 12 people, making it perfect for brunches, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home. Serve it warm for the most decadent texture—when the cinnamon swirls are gooey and the glaze slightly melts into the fluffy cake layers.

To store, simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds to revive the gooey glaze and soft crumb.

What to Serve With Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake?

Fresh Fruit Salad

The brightness of citrus and berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery cake.

Whipped Cream or Vanilla Ice Cream

These cool, creamy toppings melt perfectly into each warm slice.

Scrambled Eggs and Bacon

Balance the sweetness with a hearty savory breakfast for a full brunch spread.

Spiced Coffee or Chai Tea

Cinnamon-heavy drinks pair beautifully with the warm flavors of this cake.

Maple Sausage Links

The sweet-savory combo takes your breakfast game to the next level.

Yogurt Parfaits

Add a little tang and crunch with layered yogurt, granola, and fruit.

Salted Caramel Sauce

If you want to take indulgence even further, drizzle some on top for a sticky, sweet finish.

Warm Apple Compote

The soft, spiced apples complement the cinnamon perfectly and add a bit of fruit-forward balance.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake, you’ll want to explore more sweet and creative takes on classic flavors:

• Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling for fall-flavored indulgence.
• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake with bursts of berry goodness.
• Butter Pecan Cheesecake when you’re craving something creamy and nutty.
• Warm and Cozy Apple Crisp to channel all the cozy vibes.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake for a charming Southern treat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you drizzle extra glaze? Add some nuts or raisins? Or maybe swapped in almond extract?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake brings all the comfort and warmth of cinnamon rolls into an easy, crowd-pleasing bake. With gooey swirls, a rich buttery taste, and a glaze that melts into every bite, this cake is a guaranteed favorite from the first slice. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to over and over again—simple enough for everyday, special enough for holidays.