Article: Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the sweet and spiced flavors of cinnamon rolls with the moist, tender texture of a cake. This cake is easy to make and topped with a rich cream cheese glaze that adds tang and sweetness to every bite. Let’s dive into the recipe and guide, and also suggest internal links for further reading from ExoRecipes.
Why Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze Is a Must-Try
If you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls but don’t want to deal with kneading dough and waiting for it to rise, this cake is a great alternative. The flavors are just as rich and comforting, while the cake itself is easier and quicker to prepare. The cream cheese glaze makes every bite more indulgent.
For an ideal pairing, consider serving this cake alongside a warm drink or as part of a weekend brunch with dishes like Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, which adds a savory element to balance the sweetness.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
1. Preparing the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Spread the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Creating the Cinnamon Swirl
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter and swirl it with a knife to create beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout the cake.
3. Baking the Cake
Bake the cake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly while you prepare the cream cheese glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cinnamon Roll Cake while it’s still warm. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the cake, letting it melt into the cinnamon swirls. For extra indulgence, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or serve it with a hot cup of coffee.
For another delicious dessert option, try pairing this cake with Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Bites, which add a fruity and chocolatey contrast to the cinnamon spice.
Creative Variations of Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cake: Add chopped pecans to the cinnamon swirl mixture to give the cake extra crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake: Fold in diced apples to the batter for a fall-inspired twist. The apples pair perfectly with cinnamon and the cream cheese glaze.
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Cake: Swap half the milk for pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice to the batter for a seasonal version of this classic cake.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter. Mixing too much can result in a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use room-temperature ingredients. Softened butter and room-temperature eggs help the batter mix together more smoothly and evenly.
- Customize the cinnamon swirl. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon and sugar depending on how sweet and spiced you want your cake.
Nutritional Benefits of Cinnamon Roll Cake
While this cake is certainly a treat, there are ways to make it a little healthier. You can reduce the sugar content or substitute whole wheat flour for added fiber. The cinnamon itself also offers health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and blood sugar regulation.
If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can explore healthier dessert recipes like Homemade Banana Pudding Ice Cream, which offers natural sweetness from bananas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake, warm it slightly, and drizzle the fresh cream cheese glaze over the top.
2. Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese glaze?
While the cream cheese glaze adds a classic tangy sweetness, you can substitute it with a simple powdered sugar glaze or even vanilla buttercream if preferred.
3. What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 15 seconds to warm it up.
4. How do I prevent my cake from becoming dry?
To prevent dryness, be sure not to overbake the cake. Check for doneness at around 30 minutes. Additionally, using softened butter and not overmixing the batter will help keep the cake moist.
Internal Linking Opportunities
- Pair this cake with Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns for a savory-sweet brunch combination.
- Suggest another dessert option like Raspberry Cheesecake Brownie Bites to go with the cake.
- For a comforting family dinner, suggest Slow Cooker Baked Ziti as a main dish.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is an irresistible dessert that combines the best of cinnamon rolls with the ease of baking a cake. Its soft texture, swirls of cinnamon, and rich glaze make it a standout choice for any gathering or weekend treat. Whether you customize it with add-ins or keep it classic, it’s sure to be a hit!