As I peeled back the layers of this delightful dessert, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar danced through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake is everything you love about traditional cinnamon rolls, but in a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing sliceable form. It’s a fantastic option for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat, especially for those of us who crave homemade comfort without spending hours at the oven. With its soft, fluffy texture and dazzling swirls, you can easily customize this vegetarian delight to your liking or serve it warm with a drizzle of glaze for an irresistible finish. Curious about how you can make this indulgence your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You'll Love This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake
Comforting: This delightful cake captures the essence of cinnamon rolls but simplifies the process, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy homemade comforts without the hassle.
Customizable: Whether you want to add nuts for a crunch or drizzle extra glaze, this dessert offers endless ways to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family or guests with its beautiful swirls and intoxicating aroma; it's sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients that come together in no time, you'll find yourself baking this versatile cake again and again. Serve it warm or cold, and watch it disappear!
Sweet Nostalgia: Each bite transports you back to childhood mornings filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast or brunch spread.
Want to experiment with flavors? Check out how to add unique twists in our variation ideas.
Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create this delightful dessert!
For the Cake
- All Purpose Flour – Structure the cake; you can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and depth; swapping for dark brown sugar enhances molasses notes.
- Baking Powder – A vital leavening agent; ensure it's fresh for the best rise in your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; reduce if using salted butter.
- Whole Milk – Provides moisture; you can use half and half for added richness.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add moisture; flax eggs are a great vegan substitute.
- Unsalted Butter – Introduces richness in both the batter and filling; salted butter can work if you reduce added salt.
For the Cinnamon Filling
- Ground Cinnamon – The key spice for that signature flavor; critical for capturing the essence of a cinnamon roll.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetness for the filling; enhances that gooey, caramelized flavor.
- Melted Unsalted Butter – Helps mix the filling ingredients together neatly; always keep it melted for even distribution.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Adds a delicious sweetness; consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor boost.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses flavor into the glaze; almond extract can be used for a unique twist.
Optional Mix-ins
- Nuts or Raisins – Add texture and bursts of sweetness; just sprinkle some into the filling for extra flavor!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake. Preheating ensures the cake rises beautifully and evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowls and a 9-inch round cake pan, greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for even distribution of the leavening agent, ensuring your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake has a fluffy texture. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, combine the whole milk, eggs, and melted unsalted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. The warmth of the melted butter combined with the milk helps to create a rich and moist cake. Once blended, it's time to unite the wet and dry mixtures.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it could make your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake dense. The batter should be slightly lumpy but well incorporated. This method retains the airy texture, essential for a delightful cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon with the melted unsalted butter and brown sugar until you achieve a smooth paste. This heavenly mixture is what gives the cake its signature cinnamon flavor. Take a moment to inhale the warm, inviting scent; it’s a precursor to the delightful cake to come!
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Spread half of the batter evenly into the greased cake pan, ensuring it reaches the edges. Next, layer the cinnamon filling over the batter, spreading it gently so that it covers the surface. Finally, dollop the remaining batter on top and spread it out to encase the cinnamon swirl, creating that signature look of a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cake is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, signaling it’s almost time to indulge!
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps set the cake and makes it easier to glaze. After cooling, drizzle with your homemade vanilla glaze, transforming this cake into a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion.
Expert Tips for the Best Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation; this helps your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake rise beautifully.
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Gentle Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can create a dense texture instead of the light, fluffy cake you want.
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Fresh Baking Powder: Always check that your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder can lead to a flat cake.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting away and ensures a beautiful finish.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize; adding nuts or raisins can enhance flavor and texture, making your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake uniquely yours!
Storage Tips for Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake
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Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain its moistness. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
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Fridge: If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Make sure to wrap the cake tightly or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices of the Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheating: To restore its delightful warmth, microwave slices for about 15-30 seconds. This will revive that lovely fluffy texture, making it feel freshly baked again!
Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful cake, adding your favorite flavors and textures for a truly unique experience!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. These earthy notes complement the sweet cinnamon perfectly.
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Raisin Surprise: Toss in some raisins for a burst of sweetness and chewiness. This simple addition transforms every bite into a delightful treat.
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Creamy Twist: Substitute some milk with cream cheese for a richer icing. The smooth, tangy glaze elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a decadent touch of sweetness. You'll enjoy the delightful contrast of chocolate and cinnamon in every slice.
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Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal twist, mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. This variation turns your cake into a cozy autumn favorite.
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Citrus Zing: Add zest from an orange or a lemon into the batter if you crave a refreshing twist. The bright flavors will harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon.
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Extra Spice: Boost the warmth by incorporating nutmeg or cardamom into your cinnamon filling. This aromatic addition layers rich flavors for a more complex cake.
For even more ideas on how to make this recipe your own, explore our inspiring variation ideas.
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance—this keeps them fresh and ready for baking. Additionally, the wet ingredients can be combined and refrigerated, allowing you to whip up the batter in no time. To maintain quality, be sure to bring the wet ingredients to room temperature before mixing. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, assemble your cake with the cinnamon filling, and follow the baking instructions for fresh, bakery-quality results that are just as delicious!
What to Serve with Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake
Indulging in this cake opens the door to an inviting breakfast or cozy dessert spread that delights all the senses.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich sweetness of the cake. Their vibrant colors make the plate look stunning too!
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Strong Coffee: A robust cup of coffee enhances the cake's cozy vibes, creating a perfect pairing that awakens your taste buds and completes the experience.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Melting ice cream on warm cake creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and adds an indulgent creaminess that's hard to resist.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of warm maple syrup brings a comforting sweetness that complements the spices, reminiscent of a cozy morning at your favorite diner.
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Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds airy textures and a dreamy quality. It's a perfect way to elevate a simple slice into something special!
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola introduces crunch and nuttiness, providing a delightful contrast to the soft cake while adding an element of healthy texture.
Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for this cake?
All-purpose flour is the go-to for this Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake, providing the right structure. If you're gluten-sensitive, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend, which will work quite well when combined with additional binding agents.
How should I store my leftover cake?
You can store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 1 day, but if you have leftovers, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Make sure to wrap the cake tightly or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I freeze the cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, slice the Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a sealable freezer-safe bag. This way, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply pop it in the microwave for 15-30 seconds to warm it up.
What should I do if the cake turns out dense?
If your cake is dense, it's likely due to overmixing the batter, which can happen when combining the wet and dry ingredients. For next time, remember to mix gently until just combined, with a few lumps still visible. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh since expired leavening agents can lead to inadequate rise.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake is vegetarian, and you can easily make it vegan by substituting regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and using plant-based milk. Always check the ingredient labels for your substitutes to avoid potential allergens.
How can I tell if the cake is done baking?
You’ll know the cake is perfectly baked when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out sticky or wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Happy baking!
Indulgent Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine whole milk, eggs, and melted butter, whisking until smooth.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix ground cinnamon with melted unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Spread half of the batter into the greased pan, layer cinnamon filling, then dollop remaining batter on top.
- Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before glazing.
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