Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect treat for those who love the warm, gooey flavors of cinnamon rolls but want the simplicity of a cake. Soft and tender, this cake has swirls of cinnamon sugar and is topped with a rich, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Prepare the cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder until well combined. Pour in the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, and stir until just combined. Slowly stir in the melted butter until the batter is smooth and creamy. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Make the cinnamon swirl: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well mixed and smooth. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture evenly over the cake batter in the baking dish. Use a knife or spatula to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the cake batter, creating a marbled effect.

Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden, and the cake should spring back when pressed lightly. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the frosting.

Make the cream cheese frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency. The frosting should be thick but spreadable.

Frost the cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to melt slightly into the cake. The frosting should cover the cake completely, creating a rich, creamy layer on top. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is covered.

Serve: Slice the cake into squares and serve warm. This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply warm up a slice in the microwave before serving to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Notes:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake can be reheated in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice.
• Variations: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce on top of the frosting for added sweetness.
• Make-Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Just frost it right before serving to keep the frosting fresh and creamy.

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of frosting? A: Yes, you can use a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk if you prefer a lighter topping. However, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I know when the cake is done? A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges are golden brown. The top should be set and slightly spring back when lightly pressed.

Conclusion:

This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a must-try for anyone who loves cinnamon rolls but wants the ease of making a cake. The warm, buttery cinnamon swirl combined with the creamy frosting makes every bite a delight. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

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