Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Make the Cinnamon Swirl
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Spread Batter: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Add Cinnamon Swirl: Dollop the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter in the pan. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the mixture gently into the batter.
- Add Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon swirl and spread it evenly.
5. Bake the Cake
- Bake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Frost the Cake
- Frost: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delicious blend of cinnamon, cake, and cream cheese frosting!
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cake
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Enhance Flavor: For an extra touch, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg to the cake batter or frosting for a warm spice note.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months; just be sure to frost it after thawing.
Health Considerations
- Enjoy in Moderation: While this cake is a treat, it’s best enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.
- Lighten It Up: You can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in the frosting for a lighter version.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and decadent dessert that combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of cake. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress family and friends with its beautiful presentation and scrumptious flavor. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to this indulgent dessert!
