Cinnamon Bun Cake
All the warm, gooey goodness of classic cinnamon rolls—made easy in one soft, buttery cake! Perfect for brunch, dessert, or cozy afternoons with coffee.
Ingredients:
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup granulated sugar
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4 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp salt
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1 ½ cups milk
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2 large eggs
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl:
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¾ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp ground cinnamon
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
Vanilla Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp milk
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. 5 minutes
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In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter; mix until smooth. 8 minutes
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Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. 2 minutes
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In another bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until creamy. 5 minutes
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Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter, then swirl gently with a knife to create ribbons. 5 minutes
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. 40 minutes
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While the cake cools slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. 5 minutes
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Drizzle glaze over warm cake, slice, and enjoy! 5 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 12 servings.
The Best Cinnamon Bun Cake Recipe – Soft, Gooey & Irresistible
Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Imagine starting your day with a slice of soft, gooey cinnamon bun cake that tastes like it came straight from a bakery.
This easy cinnamon bun cake recipe promises to deliver that bakery-style flavor at home, with minimal effort. The sweet, sticky glaze and the warmth of cinnamon make it an irresistible treat. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Key Takeaways
- Simple ingredients for a complex flavor profile
- Easy to make, perfect for beginners
- Bakery-style cinnamon bun cake at home
- Soft, gooey, and utterly irresistible texture
- Perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings
The Magic of Cinnamon Bun Cake
Imagine biting into a soft, gooey cinnamon bun cake, straight from the oven. It’s a mix of a cinnamon roll and a cake. It’s perfect for any special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This No-Yeast Alternative
This cinnamon bun cake recipe is a hit because it skips yeast. It’s faster and simpler than traditional cinnamon rolls. Yet, it still offers a soft texture and a deep cinnamon flavor.
- Simplified preparation process
- No yeast rising time required
- Consistent, reliable results
Bakery-Style Results with Half the Effort
This homemade cinnamon bun cake recipe is easy but impressive. It combines a moist cake with a sweet cinnamon swirl. Together, they make a dessert you can’t resist.
- Prepare a simple cake batter
- Create a rich cinnamon sugar mixture
- Layer the batter and cinnamon mixture for maximum flavor
With this recipe, you can enjoy cinnamon bun taste in cake form. It’s a homemade treat that’s both comforting and convenient.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Our cinnamon bun cake recipe is special because it combines a soft texture with a rich cinnamon flavor. It brings together the comfort of cinnamon rolls and the simplicity of a cake recipe. This makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to try something new.
The Secret to That Soft, Moist Texture
The secret to our cinnamon streusel cake‘s softness is in the ingredients and how we mix them. Using butter and oil keeps the cake moist. And by mixing carefully, we avoid toughening the cake, making it tender instead.
- Using a combination of butter and oil for moisture
- Careful mixing to avoid overdeveloping gluten
- Incorporating sour cream for added tenderness
Perfect Balance of Cinnamon and Sweetness
Finding the right mix of cinnamon and sweetness is key in our cinnamon butter cake. We add plenty of cinnamon to the swirl, but not too much sugar in the cake or swirl. This way, the cake is tasty but not too sweet.
- A generous cinnamon swirl for flavor
- Moderate sugar content for balance
- The option to adjust sweetness to taste
Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Bun Cake
Making a delicious cinnamon bun cake begins with picking the right ingredients. The quality and mix of these ingredients will shape the cake’s taste, texture, and look.
For the Cake Batter
The cake batter is the foundation of your cinnamon bun cake. You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. High-quality vanilla extract can really boost the flavor.
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
The cinnamon swirl filling is what makes the cake special. It’s made with softened butter, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and sometimes chopped nuts or pecans for extra texture and taste.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
The cream cheese glaze brings a tangy, creamy touch to the cake. You’ll need cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth glaze.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Cake structure |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tsp | Cinnamon flavor |
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make a perfect cinnamon bun cake, you’ll need some key equipment. The right tools make baking easier and more fun.
Essential Tools for Success
For a homemade cinnamon bun cake, you’ll need a few must-haves. You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking pan, a mixing bowl set, a whisk, a rubber spatula, and a measuring cup set. Also, a stand mixer or hand mixer is crucial for mixing butter and sugar, and beating eggs.
Optional Items That Help
Some optional items can make things easier. A pastry brush is great for applying egg wash or melted butter. A kitchen scale helps with exact measurements, making your cake balanced. Plus, a cooling rack is useful for cooling your cake, preventing it from getting soggy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Cinnamon Bun Cake
Making the best cinnamon bun cake from scratch is easier than you think. We’re here to guide you through every step. You’ll create a deliciously soft and gooey cake that impresses everyone.
Preparing Your Pan and Preheating
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter and line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick and is easy to serve.
Mixing the Perfect Cake Batter
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, and 2 large eggs. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. This keeps the cake tender.
Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
Mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This cinnamon sugar mixture is the heart of your cinnamon bun cake. Use a generous amount for a rich, swirly design.
Layering Techniques for Maximum Flavor
Pour half of the cake batter into the pan, followed by half of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Repeat this process, ending with the cinnamon sugar on top. This layering technique ensures every bite has a perfect balance of cake and cinnamon sugar.
Baking to Gooey Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The cake should be golden brown, and the cinnamon sugar should be bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect gooey center.
| Baking Stage | Time | Visual Cue |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Baking | 20 minutes | Cake starts to rise |
| Final Baking | 15-20 minutes | Golden brown, bubbly cinnamon sugar |
By following these steps, you’ll create a cinnamon bun cake that’s delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy the process and the delightful outcome!
Mastering the Cream Cheese Glaze
The cream cheese glaze is key to your cinnamon bun cake’s flavor. A good glaze adds a tangy, creamy touch to the sweet cinnamon filling.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
To get the right glaze consistency, mix cream cheese and powdered sugar carefully. Start with soft cream cheese and add powdered sugar bit by bit. You want it smooth and spreadable but still hold its shape on the cake.
| Ingredient | Ratio | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Cheese | 1 part | Tanginess and creaminess |
| Powdered Sugar | 2-3 parts | Sweetness and thickness |
When and How to Apply for Best Results
Apply the glaze when the cake is completely cool. This way, the glaze will set right and not melt. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, letting it drizzle down the sides for a nice look.
Pro Tips for a Foolproof Cinnamon Bun Cake
Making a perfect cinnamon bun cake at home is easier than you think. It’s not just about following a recipe. It’s about understanding the special touches that make it stand out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your cinnamon bun cake is a hit, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t overmix the batter, or your cake might end up dense.
- Make sure to prepare your pan right to avoid the cake sticking.
- If you’re using yeast, don’t skip letting the dough rise. Our recipe makes this step easy.
By avoiding these mistakes, you’re well on your way to a delicious easy cinnamon bun cake recipe.
Expert Tricks for Bakery-Quality Results
For that authentic bakery taste and texture, try these expert tricks:
- Use top-notch ingredients, like real cinnamon and premium flour.
- Take your time; let the flavors blend during preparation.
- For a gooey center, slightly underbake and cool completely before glazing.
With these tips, you’ll make a cinnamon bun cake that’s not just tasty but also looks great. It’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or at any gathering.
Delicious Variations of Your Cinnamon Bun Cake
Baking a Cinnamon Bun Cake opens up a world of possibilities. You can change it to fit different tastes and needs. It’s perfect for any occasion or dietary choice.
Cinnamon Bun Bundt Cake Transformation
Turning your Cinnamon Bun Cake into a bundt cake is easy and impressive. A bundt pan makes a beautiful ringed cake. It’s great for special events. The cinnamon sugar swirl is spread out evenly, making every bite tasty.
5-Minute Cinnamon Bun Mug Cake
For a quick treat, try a 5-minute Cinnamon Bun Mug Cake. It’s perfect for sudden cravings. Mix the ingredients in a mug, microwave for 1-2 minutes, and enjoy a warm cinnamon bun cake.
Carrot Cake Cinnamon Buns Fusion
Mixing carrot cake with cinnamon buns makes a unique dessert. Add grated carrots, nuts, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This creates a moist cake with cinnamon and carrot sweetness.
Adding Nuts, Fruits, and Other Mix-ins
Adding nuts, fruits, or chocolate chips changes your Cinnamon Bun Cake. Walnuts or pecans add crunch, while dried cranberries or cherries add fruitiness. Try different mix-ins to make a cake that’s all your own.
Storing, Serving, and Reheating Your Cake
The secret to enjoying your homemade cinnamon bun cake is in how you store and reheat it. Doing it right keeps the cake moist and tasty for days.
Keeping It Fresh for Days
To keep your cinnamon bun cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate or freeze it. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil when refrigerating to avoid drying out. For freezing, wrap it in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Tips for Maintaining Freshness:
- Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Use a cake keeper or a container with a tight-fitting lid.
- If you’ve glazed the cake, be cautious when storing it in the refrigerator, as the glaze can become firm.
Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
There are simple ways to reheat your cinnamon bun cake and bring back its fresh-baked taste. You can reheat slices in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 10-15 seconds or until warm. Or, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
| Reheating Method | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave | 10-15 seconds | Quick and easy, but beware of uneven heating. |
| Oven | 5-7 minutes | More even heating, ideal for larger quantities. |
“The art of reheating is not just about warming the cake; it’s about reviving the experience.”
Cinnamon Bun Cake Mix vs. Homemade
Cinnamon bun lovers often face a choice: a quick cake mix or a homemade treat. Store-bought mixes are fast, but homemade recipes let you tweak flavors and textures.
Where to Find Pillsbury Cinnamon Bun Cake Mix
Pillsbury cinnamon bun cake mix is easy to find in most U.S. supermarkets. Look for it in the baking aisle with other mixes. Walmart, Target, and Kroger usually stock it. If it’s hard to find, try Amazon or the Pillsbury website.
How to Elevate a Box Mix to Taste Homemade
To make a box mix taste homemade, add extra ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon, or nuts. Using buttermilk instead of water boosts flavor and moisture. A homemade glaze or frosting can also make it taste better.
Why Homemade Is Worth the Extra Effort
Homemade cinnamon bun cake gives you complete control over ingredients and customization of flavors. It takes more time and effort, but it’s more rewarding. You can make it fit your dietary needs or what ingredients you have.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Cinnamon Bun Cake
Now you’ve got the best cinnamon bun cake recipe down pat. It’s time to dive into the sweet, gooey delight of your homemade treat. This irresistible delight is great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Making a cinnamon bun cake from scratch lets you tailor it to your liking. Whether you prefer a strong cinnamon taste or something sweeter, this recipe is your canvas.
By following the steps in this article, you’ve made a delicious cinnamon bun cake. It’s sure to wow your family and friends. So, grab a slice and savor the fruits of your labor!
FAQ
What is the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Bun Cake?
To keep your Cinnamon Bun Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. Or, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Freezing it for up to 2 months is also an option.
Can I make Cinnamon Bun Cake without a stand mixer?
Yes, you can make Cinnamon Bun Cake without a stand mixer. Use a hand mixer or whisk to mix the batter and filling.
How do I achieve the perfect cinnamon sugar swirl?
To get the perfect cinnamon sugar swirl, spread the mixture evenly over the batter. Leave a small border around the edges. Then, use a knife or spatula to create a swirl pattern.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the cinnamon sugar swirl?
Yes, you can try different sugars like brown sugar or turbinado sugar. This will give your cake a unique flavor.
How do I prevent the cream cheese glaze from becoming too runny?
To avoid a runny glaze, use the right cream cheese to powdered sugar ratio. Don’t overmix. Refrigerating the glaze for a few minutes will firm it up before applying it.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the Cinnamon Bun Cake batter?
Yes, adding nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins can create a unique flavor. Just adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
How do I reheat Cinnamon Bun Cake without drying it out?
To reheat without drying, wrap it in foil and microwave for 10-15 seconds. Or, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Can I make Cinnamon Bun Cake in a bundt pan?
Yes, you can make it in a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time and grease the pan well to prevent sticking.
What is the difference between Cinnamon Bun Cake and cinnamon roll cake?
Cinnamon Bun Cake and cinnamon roll cake are often used the same way. But, Cinnamon Bun Cake is more like a coffee cake with a gooey swirl. Cinnamon roll cake might have a more traditional cinnamon roll taste.
Link source:
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Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinnamon
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Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baking
Recommended Anchor Text: essential cake baking tips for beginners -
Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oven_temperatures
Recommended Anchor Text: safe and accurate baking temperatures
