Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe: Easy and Delicious

This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe brings the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls into a show-stopping layered dessert. Imagine soft, moist cake layers swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is as delightful to eat as it is to make.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

This recipe combines the classic appeal of cinnamon rolls with the elegance of a layered cake. It’s ideal for impressing guests or treating your family to a special dessert. With a balance of cinnamon spice, buttery sweetness, and tangy frosting, it’s a surefire hit.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

Cake Layers:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk

Cinnamon Sugar Swirl:

½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

1. Preparing the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Next, in a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until combined.

2. Adding the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared pans. Drizzle the cinnamon mixture over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife to create a marbled effect.

3. Baking the Cake Layers

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract and add heavy cream to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Assembling the Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat, then place the third layer and frost the entire cake. For a decorative touch, drizzle any remaining cinnamon mixture on top or pipe frosting swirls.

What Makes This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe Special?

Rich Cinnamon Flavor: Each bite bursts with the warmth of cinnamon sugar.
Velvety Frosting: The cream cheese frosting perfectly balances the cake’s sweetness.
Versatile Dessert: This cake works for any celebration or a casual treat.

Tips for Success with This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter to ensure a fluffy cake.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting.
Level the Layers: Trim the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife for an even stack.
Customize Your Cake: Add nuts or raisins for extra flavor.
Perfect Swirls: Use a skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture for a marbled look.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake layers 1–2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature.

How do I store the finished cake?

Keep the frosted cake in the refrigerator for up to five days. Let it sit at room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze the cake layers?

Absolutely! Wrap unfrosted layers in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How do I create perfect cinnamon swirls?

Drizzle the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it without overmixing.

What toppings can I add for extra flair?

Try adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.

Where Can I Find More Recipe Ideas?

You can explore more recipes in our categories: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. For additional inspiration, check out popular sites like AllRecipes and Tasty.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the best parts of cinnamon rolls with the elegance of a layer cake. With moist cake layers, a rich cinnamon swirl, and tangy frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and treat your loved ones to a homemade masterpiece!