Cinnabon-Style Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure the cake comes out easily.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
In another bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs. Stir until everything is blended nicely.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until you create a crumbly texture.
Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter in the pan.
Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer, carefully spreading to cover.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is in the oven, prepare the frosting: beat together cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the mixture is creamy.
After the cake has cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top.
Slice, serve, and enjoy while warm for the best flavor experience!

This Cinnabon-Style Cinnamon Roll Cake is divine on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few creative ideas:

Serve it warm straight from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Pair it with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast combo.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence!

To keep your cake fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Make sure your butter is melted but not too hot when mixing with other ingredients, as this can cause the eggs to cook unexpectedly.
Don’t skip letting the cake cool slightly before frosting; this will help the frosting maintain its shape instead of melting all over.
If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the batter or filling.

Looking to switch things up? Here are some creative variations to try:

Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for an indulgent take.
Swap the vanilla extract in the frosting for almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
Incorporate different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a warming spice profile.

How long does it take to prepare this cake?
The total prep time is around 15-20 minutes, followed by 35-40 minutes of baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half or all with whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.