This cinnamon roll cake is everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls—swirled cinnamon sugar, soft cake layers, and creamy glaze—without the hassle of rolling dough or waiting for yeast to rise. Whether you’re feeding a brunch crowd or treating yourself on a lazy weekend, this cake is your ticket to sweet, spiced comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cinnamon Roll Magic
Get all the classic cinnamon roll flavor with none of the fuss. The signature swirl brings those sweet, buttery, spiced pockets into every bite.
Soft & Moist Cake
A vanilla cake base that stays tender and light makes this more than just a dessert—it’s a memory in the making.
Cream Cheese Glaze
Velvety and just the right amount of tangy, this glaze balances the warmth of cinnamon beautifully.
Easy to Make
No proofing, no kneading. Just mix, swirl, and bake. The oven does all the hard work.
Crowd-Pleasing
From holiday gatherings to casual coffee breaks, this cake hits the mark every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 8–10
For the Cake
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
- Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk. Begin and end with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until it resembles moist, crumbly sand.
Assemble the Cake
- Spread half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter.
- Spoon the remaining batter on top and gently spread it over.
- Use a knife or skewer to lightly swirl the top layer for a marbled effect.
Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add milk, a tablespoon at a time, if needed to thin the glaze to your preferred consistency.
Glaze and Serve
Once the cake is cool, drizzle with the cream cheese glaze. Cut into squares and serve. It’s best enjoyed fresh but stores beautifully for later treats.
Why This Recipe Works
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
The mix of brown sugar and cinnamon melts into gooey layers that infuse every bite with sweet warmth.
Soft Cake Base
The batter is light and moist, absorbing just enough of the cinnamon swirl to create a rich yet airy texture.
Balanced Glaze
Tangy cream cheese keeps the sweetness in check and adds a luxurious finish.
Variations to Try
Add Nuts
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon layer for texture and nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and check that your baking powder is gluten-free.
Spice It Up
Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon swirl for deeper spice.
Chocolate Fusion
Mix in a swirl of melted chocolate or cocoa powder with the cinnamon mixture for a bold twist.
Fruity Top
Serve slices with fresh berries or a warm fruit compote for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Swirl Gently: Light swirling creates visual and textural contrast without blending everything into one layer.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Soft butter and cream cheese are easier to mix and yield a smoother batter and glaze.
- Parchment Helps: The overhang from parchment paper makes it easy to lift the cake from the pan in one piece.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slightly before serving for best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch Favorite: Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a mimosa for a cozy weekend treat.
- Dessert Spread: Pair with other treats like brownies, lemon bars, or mini tarts for a party platter.
- Dress It Up: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a few berries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a restaurant-style finish.
- Romantic Touch: Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a visually striking plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Can I make this in a different pan?
Yes, you can use an 8×8 pan for a taller cake or a round 9-inch cake pan. Adjust baking time slightly and check doneness with a toothpick.
Can I double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time by 5–10 minutes, checking for doneness near the center.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?
You can make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, and milk. It won’t have the tangy richness, but it’ll still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Cinnamon Roll Cake brings nostalgic flavor into a simple, accessible bake that anyone can master. From the warm cinnamon sugar swirl to the dreamy cream cheese glaze, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is effortlessly achievable. Whether you make it for a gathering or just to treat yourself, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite.
This cake doesn’t just satisfy—it comforts, excites, and brings people together over the simple joy of home-baked goodness.