Name: Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling); 1 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons milk (for glaze); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Few desserts can match the warm, gooey bliss of a Cinnabon cinnamon roll—but what if you could bring that same iconic flavor into a soft, buttery cake? That’s exactly what this Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake delivers. It’s a cinnamon-swirled dream topped with a luscious glaze, baked into a moist and fluffy cake that fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of cinnamon sugar.

This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It channels all the nostalgic charm of a mall-fresh Cinnabon, but with a homemade twist that feels comforting and indulgent. The rich buttery base is layered with a cinnamon filling that caramelizes as it bakes, while the smooth vanilla glaze soaks into every tender bite. It’s simple enough for a casual weekend treat and decadent enough to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

This recipe takes everything you love about cinnamon rolls and simplifies it into a one-pan wonder. No kneading or waiting for dough to rise—just mix, swirl, bake, and glaze. The texture is perfectly fluffy without being too dense, and the cinnamon filling creates little pockets of caramelized sugar in every slice.

It also stores beautifully, making it great for make-ahead breakfasts or sweet gifts. Whether you’re serving it with coffee on a cozy morning or ending a holiday dinner with something sweet, this cake will be a guaranteed hit.

What Kind of Cinnamon Should I Use?

While ground cinnamon is the only type you need for this recipe, quality makes a difference. Opt for Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon if you can—both varieties bring a rich, warm depth that enhances the cake beautifully. Ground cinnamon from your regular spice rack will still work just fine, but a more fragrant type adds a subtle gourmet edge.

Ingredients for the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

Making this cake only requires pantry staples, which makes it even more irresistible. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving that signature soft, buttery texture and bold cinnamon flavor.

All-purpose flour: The structure of the cake, providing that perfect balance between light and moist.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the cake base.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and keeps it fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Milk: Creates moisture in the batter and brings the ingredients together.
Eggs: Binds the batter and adds richness.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note to both the cake and the glaze.
Butter: Used in both the cake and the filling for that melt-in-your-mouth richness.
Brown sugar: The base of the cinnamon swirl, it adds a deeper molasses flavor.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show—no cinnamon roll cake is complete without it.
Powdered sugar: Used in the glaze to finish everything off with sweet, creamy goodness.

How To Make the Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter until the batter is smooth and combined.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Filling

In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it forms a thick, sugary paste. This is what gives you those heavenly cinnamon swirls.

Step 3: Swirl the Filling Into the Batter

Pour the cake batter into your prepared dish. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture evenly over the top, then use a butter knife to swirl it through the batter.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake for 32 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and puffed, with the cinnamon swirl slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Once the cake comes out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over the warm cake so it soaks into all those cinnamon crevices.

How to Serve and Store This Cinnabon Cinnamon Roll Cake

This cake is best served warm, straight from the oven, when the glaze is still slightly gooey and the cinnamon scent fills the room. It easily serves 12, making it ideal for potlucks, brunch tables, or sharing with family.

To store leftovers, let the cake cool completely and cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth.