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Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

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4.1 from 15 reviews

This Cinnamon Roll Cake is a deliciously easy dessert that combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the simplicity of a sheet cake. Combining a white cake mix with a cinnamon-sugar swirl and a sweet vanilla glaze, this recipe delivers a moist, tender cake with a delightful cinnamon aroma, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Cake Batter

  • 1 package white cake mix
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 cup water

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Vanilla Icing

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Milk (enough to achieve glaze consistency, approx. 1-2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) to prepare for baking the cake.
  2. Prepare Pan: Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set aside.
  3. Make Cake Batter: Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions, combining eggs, oil, and water, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared sheet pan.
  4. Create Cinnamon Swirl: Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until combined, then drizzle this mixture evenly over the cake batter.
  5. Swirl Mixture: Using a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the cake batter to create a marbled effect without overmixing.
  6. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Make Icing: While the cake bakes, stir together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to create an icing with the consistency similar to white glue, adjusting milk quantity carefully.
  8. Cool and Ice Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the vanilla icing evenly over the warm cake for a delectable finish.
  9. Serve: Serve the cinnamon roll cake warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not over-swirl the cinnamon mixture; you want a marbled effect, not a fully blended batter.
  • Adjust the milk quantity in the icing slowly to avoid a glaze that’s too runny.
  • This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy coffee cake alternative.
  • Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat slices briefly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.