The Most Heavenly Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe Ever Made

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with this delectable cinnamon roll layer cake that promises pure comfort.

Soft, pillowy layers whisper tales of weekend mornings and lazy brunches.

Each slice carries the warmth of freshly baked pastries, rich with nostalgic spice and tender crumb.

Delicate swirls of cream cheese frosting promise decadent moments of pure indulgence.

Baking this cake feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavor and tradition.

Layers of buttery, spiraled goodness make you want to pause and savor every single bite.

Let’s transform an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary celebration of homemade magic.

FAQ Time For Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

• What makes this cake different from a traditional cinnamon roll?

This cake captures the classic cinnamon roll flavor in a stunning layer cake format. It combines the rich, warm cinnamon taste with a tender cake texture, giving you all the deliciousness of a cinnamon roll in a more elegant presentation.

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. The frosting can also be prepared a day early and refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble.

• Is this recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes! While it looks impressive, the recipe is straightforward. The steps are simple to follow, and you don’t need advanced baking skills. Just take your time and follow the instructions carefully.

• How can I ensure my cake layers are moist?

The key is not to overmix the batter and to avoid overbaking. Check your cake layers at the minimum baking time, and use the toothpick test to determine doneness. The added oil in the recipe also helps keep the cake tender and moist.

Why Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Is So Fun And Sweet

• Unleash Bakery-Style Indulgence: Transform your home kitchen into a professional bakery with this show-stopping cinnamon roll layer cake that delivers restaurant-quality dessert without professional training.
• Master Quick and Easy Baking: The recipe requires basic mixing techniques and standard ingredients, making it perfect for home bakers of all skill levels who want a delicious dessert without complex steps.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Dessert: This cake combines the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with elegant layer cake presentation, guaranteeing smiles and second servings at family gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations.
• Weekend Baking Excitement: Designed for leisurely weekend baking, this recipe offers a fun cooking project that fills your kitchen with warm cinnamon aromas and creates a memorable sweet treat to share with loved ones.

What You’ll Need For Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

• All-Purpose Flour: A key foundation for the cake's structure, providing soft and tender texture.
• Baking Powder: Essential leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, distinctive spice characteristic of cinnamon rolls.

• Unsalted Butter, Vegetable Oil: Create moisture and richness in the cake, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Whole Milk: Provides moisture and helps bind the cake ingredients together.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its tender texture.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients, add structure, and provide richness to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Brown Sugar, Ground Cinnamon, Melted Butter: Create a classic cinnamon roll-inspired swirl with rich, sweet, and spicy notes.

• Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter: Provide creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps create smooth, spreadable frosting consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle flavor to the frosting.
• Milk: Adjusts frosting's thickness and spreadability.

Steps To Assemble Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F. Grab three cake pans and give them a quick spray of cooking oil, then dust with flour to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Cake Base

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon

In another bowl, whip up the butter, oil, and sugar until they transform into a fluffy cloud. Crack in the eggs one by one, then splash in some vanilla extract for that extra magic touch.

Step 3: Blend and Bake the Cake Layers

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, splashing in milk between additions. Don’t overmix – you want a tender cake! Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Slide them into the oven and let them bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Craft the Cinnamon Magic Filling

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Melted butter

Stir until it becomes a rich, swirly mixture that screams “cinnamon roll”!

Step 5: Stack and Build Your Masterpiece

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, start building your tower of deliciousness. Place the first layer on your serving plate, then spread a generous layer of the cinnamon filling. Repeat with the second layer, and crown it with the final cake layer.

Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until they become smooth and dreamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and just enough milk to create a spreadable frosting that’ll make everyone swoon.

Step 7: Decorate and Dazzle

Slather the frosting all over the cake, covering every inch with creamy goodness. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle some extra cinnamon filling or a simple sugar glaze on top.

Tip: Let the cake sit for a bit before serving to let all those delicious flavors mingle and get to know each other!

Tips For Making Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

• Chill Before Frosting: Cool cake layers completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure smooth, even coverage. Refrigerating layers for 30 minutes helps stabilize the cake structure.
• Adjust Cinnamon Intensity: Customize the cinnamon flavor by increasing or decreasing ground cinnamon in both cake batter and filling. Start with recommended amounts and taste test for personal preference.
• Create Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring 1:1 replacement ratio. Add xanthan gum for better texture and binding in the cake layers.
• Prevent Dry Cake Layers: Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing batter to maintain moisture. Check cake doneness early and remove from oven immediately when a toothpick comes out clean.
• Store and Serve Smart: Refrigerate cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow cake to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and softness.

How To Store Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake With Ease

• Refrigerate the cinnamon roll layer cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping the cake fresh and moist.
• Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or place it in a cake carrier to prevent drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften the frosting and enhance its flavor.
• Freeze individual slices or the entire cake by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, which will preserve the cake's quality for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy the frozen cake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
• Handle with care to maintain the delicate layers and creamy frosting during storage and transportation.

Drinks And Sides For Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

• Brew Creamy Coffee Companion: Pair this decadent cinnamon roll cake with a smooth, rich cappuccino or latte. The creamy milk-based coffee perfectly complements the cake's warm cinnamon notes and balances the sweet cream cheese frosting.
• Sip Sweet Dessert Wine: Choose a late harvest Riesling or Moscato d'Asti to enhance the cake's sweetness. These light, honeyed wines match beautifully with the cinnamon's spicy warmth and provide a delightful dessert experience.
• Serve Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Add a scoop of cold, creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the cake. The cool, smooth texture contrasts wonderfully with the warm cake, while the vanilla flavor amplifies the cinnamon's richness.
• Enjoy Spiced Chai Tea: Brew a hot, aromatic chai tea with its blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. This spiced tea echoes the cake's cinnamon tones and creates a comforting, harmonious pairing that warms the soul.

Ways To Change Up Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

• Nutty Cinnamon Roll Cake: Enhance the cake by adding chopped pecans or walnuts between layers, creating a delightful crunch and complementing the cinnamon flavor. Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Surprise: Fold mini chocolate chips into the cake batter for a rich, indulgent variation. Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cake to intensify the chocolate experience.
• Apple Cinnamon Roll Fusion: Incorporate finely diced fresh apples into the cake batter or between layers. Sprinkle additional cinnamon and add a light apple glaze to enhance the fruity warmth of the dessert.
• Maple Pecan Transformation: Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup in the cake batter. Add a maple cream cheese frosting and garnish with candied pecans for a decadent autumn-inspired version.

Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Layers of nostalgia dance in this cinnamon roll layer cake, blending classic breakfast comfort with elegant dessert dreams. Silky cream cheese frosting and swirled cinnamon magic invite sweet indulgence that connects you to cherished morning memories.

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Ingredients

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Primary Cake Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or buttermilk
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup (120 ml) vegetable oil

Spice and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter (melted)
• 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 23 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing, flouring, or lining with parchment paper to ensure easy cake removal.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a medium mixing bowl, creating a uniform dry ingredient base.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream butter, oil, and sugar until the mixture becomes light, airy, and significantly increased in volume.
4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, ensuring each is fully integrated before adding the next, then blend in vanilla extract for additional depth of flavor.
5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk to maintain a smooth, consistent batter. Mix gently to prevent overmixing and maintain cake’s delicate texture.
6. Evenly distribute batter among prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops to create level layers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring for a golden exterior and checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge clean when inserted into the center.
8. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to reach room temperature.
9. Prepare cinnamon swirl filling by combining brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
10. Construct cake layers by placing first cake round on serving plate, spreading a thin layer of cinnamon filling, and repeating with subsequent layers.
11. Create cream cheese frosting by whipping cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually incorporating powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until achieving a creamy, spreadable texture.
12. Generously coat entire cake with cream cheese frosting, ensuring even coverage on top and sides.
13. Optional: Enhance presentation by drizzling additional cinnamon filling or a light powdered sugar glaze over the finished cake.

Notes

• Prep Technique: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
• Temperature Control: Let cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
• Cinnamon Intensity: Adjust ground cinnamon量 based on personal preference, starting with less and tasting as you go.
• Storage Hack: Refrigerate cake for easier slicing and to help frosting set firmly.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better structure.
• Make-Ahead Strategy: Bake cake layers a day in advance and store wrapped in plastic to maximize moisture retention.
• Swirl Distribution: Use a piping bag or spoon to create even, symmetrical cinnamon swirl layers between cake tiers.
• Frosting Consistency: If frosting seems too thick, add milk by teaspoon; if too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar gradually.
• Decoration Tip: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts around cake edges for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese alternative for similar richness.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 50 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 66 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg