Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
- Prepare the Swirl Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
- Swirl into Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake to keep the cake moist.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- Mix the Glaze: While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by combining the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable; add more milk if needed.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the cinnamon swirls.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve warm for the best gooey cinnamon roll effect.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and allows everything to mix evenly.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Serve Warm: This cake is best enjoyed warm when the glaze has had time to seep into the cake, making it extra soft and flavorful.
Variations
- Add Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch and flavor.
- Make It Apple Cinnamon: Add finely chopped apples to the batter or cinnamon swirl mixture for a seasonal twist.
- Add Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap out the regular glaze for a cream cheese version by mixing 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Final Thoughts
This cinnamon roll cake is an indulgent treat that tastes just like a fresh cinnamon roll but is much easier to make. With its gooey cinnamon swirls, tender cake, and sweet glaze, it’s perfect for family gatherings or special weekend breakfasts.