Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Cake

This Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake delivers the best of both worlds—all the warm, spiced flavor of cinnamon rolls with the convenience and texture of cake. A tender, moist vanilla base is swirled with a buttery cinnamon filling and topped with a simple sweet glaze that soaks into every bite for an irresistible dessert experience.

Last weekend I brought this to a family gathering, and my nephew who normally only eats chocolate desserts had three slices! The cinnamon-sugar swirl and sweet glaze won him over completely.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• All-Purpose Flour - Creates the perfect cake structure; cake flour also works for extra tenderness
• Brown Sugar - Provides that classic cinnamon roll filling flavor with molasses notes
• Cinnamon - The star spice; use fresh, quality cinnamon for best results
• Butter - Both melted (for cake) and softened (for filling) create different textures
• Vanilla Extract - Enhances both cake and glaze flavors
• Powdered Sugar - Creates a smooth, pourable glaze without grittiness

The magic happens when the cinnamon filling partially melts into the cake while baking, creating pockets of gooey cinnamon goodness throughout every slice.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray. The proper pan size ensures the cake bakes evenly and has the right thickness for the perfect texture.

Step 2: Make Simple Cake Batter

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, eggs, vanilla, and milk in a large mixing bowl. Mix with a hand mixer until just combined, then add melted butter and mix again until smooth. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the cake tough.

Step 3: Create Cinnamon Filling

In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until it forms a thick paste. This consistency is key—it should be soft enough to swirl but thick enough to create distinct ribbons of flavor.

Step 4: Create the Swirl Effect

Spread cake batter evenly in prepared pan, then drop spoonfuls of cinnamon mixture across the surface. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the filling through the batter, creating a marbled effect. Don't overmix—you want visible swirls, not a uniform mixture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35-40 minutes until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will rise beautifully and develop a slightly crisp top while staying moist inside.

Step 6: Finish with Simple Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the still-warm cake, allowing it to seep into the cracks and crevices, just like the icing on fresh cinnamon rolls.

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The Perfect Morning Indulgence

This cake transforms ordinary mornings into special occasions with minimal effort. Weekend family breakfasts become memorable events when this cinnamon-scented creation appears on the table. The familiar aroma wafting through the house gently wakes everyone, drawing them to the kitchen with sleepy smiles and eager appetites, creating those precious moments of togetherness before busy days begin.

Seasonal Adaptations Worth Trying

Throughout the year, this versatile recipe welcomes seasonal twists. Fall calls for adding diced apples and increasing the cinnamon. Winter holidays shine with orange zest and cranberries mixed into the batter. Spring welcomes lemon zest in the glaze, while summer invites fresh berries served alongside. The basic recipe provides an excellent canvas for creativity.

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A Solution for Cinnamon Roll Cravings

Traditional cinnamon rolls require hours of proofing, rolling, and careful technique. This cake delivers that same satisfying flavor in just minutes of active preparation time. For busy parents, novice bakers, or anyone craving homemade comfort without the fuss, this recipe bridges the gap between elaborate pastry and achievable home baking.

Impressive Yet Approachable Entertainment Option

Hosting brunch becomes effortless with this show-stopping centerpiece that can be prepared the night before. Unlike fussy individual pastries, this family-style dessert serves many with minimal work. Guests invariably request the recipe, impressed by its professional appearance despite its simple preparation.

You Must Know

• Don't overmix the cake batter—this can make it tough
• Swirl gently with a knife for distinct layers of cinnamon filling
• Pour glaze over warm (not hot) cake for perfect absorption
• The center may appear slightly underdone due to the cinnamon swirl—this creates the "gooey" texture
• Cooling for 15-20 minutes before glazing gives the best texture

I learned the importance of proper swirling after my first attempt ended up looking muddy. Now I use fewer, more deliberate knife strokes for beautiful, distinct cinnamon ribbons.

Chef's Essential Tips

• For extra richness, add cream cheese to the glaze
• Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation
• Line your pan with parchment for easier removal of slices
• For a more intense cinnamon flavor, add ½ teaspoon to the cake batter too
• Let the cake cool for exactly 15 minutes before glazing—too hot and it will soak up too much, too cool and it won't absorb properly

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This Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake has become my go-to recipe when I'm craving homemade cinnamon rolls but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. It captures all the warm, comforting flavors of traditional rolls in a format that's much more approachable for everyday baking.

Final Tips

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top dessert
• Make ahead and reheat individual slices for 15-20 seconds in the microwave
• For holiday gatherings, add a sprinkle of chopped pecans before baking
• Double the glaze if you like extra sweetness
• Perfect with coffee or milk for a special breakfast treat

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare 1 day ahead. For best results, warm slightly before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cover tightly and store at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.

→ Is the glaze supposed to be thick?

Yes, it should be thick but pourable. Add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time if needed.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freeze without glaze up to 3 months. Thaw and add fresh glaze before serving.

→ Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl mixture.