Indulge your taste buds in the delightful fusion of cinnamon rolls and cake with this scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Cake recipe. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or impressing guests at your next gathering, this delectable treat combines fluffy cake with swirls of cinnamon goodness, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dessert!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add in the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the cinnamon swirl. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter, then use a knife to swirl it through the batter.
- Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
Tips:
- For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or raisins over the cinnamon swirl before baking.
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened for the frosting to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to several days.
Conclusion:
With its fluffy texture, swirls of cinnamon, and creamy frosting, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is sure to become a favorite dessert in your household. Whether enjoyed as a special treat for yourself or shared with loved ones, this irresistible cake is bound to delight all who taste it. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the sweet comfort of homemade goodness!
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in this recipe?
- While you can technically substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe, it may alter the texture and flavor of the cake slightly. Whole wheat flour tends to be denser and can result in a heavier cake. If you prefer a lighter texture, you may want to use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour or stick to all-purpose flour entirely. Experimentation with ratios may be needed to achieve the desired texture and taste.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time and freeze it?
- Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time and freeze it for later enjoyment. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, you can cut the cake into individual portions and wrap each piece separately. Place the wrapped cake or slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Properly stored, the cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply transfer the cake or slices to the refrigerator overnight or allow them to come to room temperature on the countertop.
- What adjustments should I make if I want to make a larger or smaller batch of this cake?
- If you wish to adjust the batch size of this cake recipe, you can easily scale the ingredients accordingly. For example, if you want to double the recipe to make a larger cake, simply double all of the ingredients listed. Similarly, if you want to halve the recipe for a smaller cake, cut all of the ingredient measurements in half. Keep in mind that adjusting the batch size may also affect the baking time, so be sure to monitor the cake closely and adjust the baking time as needed. Additionally, consider using a different sized baking pan to accommodate the adjusted batch size, ensuring even baking and proper texture.
- Can I omit the cream cheese frosting or substitute it with a different type of frosting?
- While the cream cheese frosting adds a deliciously creamy and tangy element to this cinnamon roll cake, you can certainly omit it if desired or substitute it with a different type of frosting. If you prefer a simpler topping, you can dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Alternatively, you can experiment with different frosting flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or caramel to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that different frostings may require different preparation methods and ingredients, so be sure to adjust accordingly.