Save This cinnamon roll coffee cake brings everything cozy and nostalgic from a classic cinnamon roll right into a fluffy fuss-free cake. A buttery base gets generous swirls of spiced sugar and a dreamy vanilla glaze—no yeast or rolling required. It is the kind of treat I crave on lazy weekend mornings when I want the cinnamon roll flavor but none of the wait.
My family asks for this every time chilly weather rolls in. It is the quickest way I know to fill the kitchen with warm bakery smells and smiles.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: gives this cake its soft and fluffy structure. Use fresh flour for best rise and tender crumb
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the batter and ensures a golden crust. Look for fine white sugar so it dissolves easily
- Unsalted butter: for the cake and swirl builds rich flavor without oversalting. Melt for easy mixing and choose European style for the best results
- Whole milk: keeps the crumb moist and adds richness. Use whole milk for a tender cake texture
- Large eggs: bind everything together and add richness. Look for eggs with bright golden yolks for best color
- Baking powder: helps the cake rise evenly. Make sure yours is no more than six months old for max lift
- Salt: sharpens the sweetness and flavors. Always use fine salt so it blends in evenly
- Pure vanilla extract: gives the cake and glaze a warm classic flavor. Choose pure over imitation if possible
- Light brown sugar: makes the cinnamon swirl gooey and sticky sweet. Check for freshness so it is soft and not dried out
- Ground cinnamon: adds signature spice to the filling. For boldest flavor use recently opened cinnamon
- Powdered sugar: in the glaze ensures a silky finish. Sift out lumps before mixing for a perfect drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and helps the cake release easily
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the all purpose flour granulated sugar baking powder and salt. Blend until well combined and no streaks remain so your cake bakes evenly
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the melted butter whole milk eggs and pure vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended. The melted butter should be just warm not hot so it does not scramble the eggs
- Bring the Batter Together:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Gently stir with a spatula just until you see no more dry flour. Overmixing will make the cake dense so stop as soon as everything comes together
- Spread the Batter:
- Scrape the thick batter into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top evenly with your spatula so it bakes up level
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a small bowl mix the light brown sugar all purpose flour and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until you have a thick cinnamon paste
- Swirl It In:
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl mixture all over the surface of your cake batter. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon filling through the batter creating deep ribbons of flavor
- Bake Until Golden:
- Transfer the pan to your preheated oven. Bake for 32 to 36 minutes until the cake is golden the edges pull away and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with some moist crumbs
- Mix the Vanilla Glaze:
- While the cake cools for a few minutes whisk together powdered sugar milk and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and pourable
- Add the Finishing Touch:
- Drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the warm cake. Let it cool just long enough to set the glaze a bit before slicing and serving
Save Cinnamon is always the ingredient I look forward to the most in this recipe. Its warm scent fills our house before we even pour the coffee and it always reminds me of Sunday brunches growing up when my mom baked something special just because
Storage Tips
This coffee cake keeps well at room temperature for up to two days tightly covered. For longer freshness refrigerate slices in an airtight container for up to five days. If enjoying later microwave for fifteen seconds to bring back the just baked texture
Ingredient Substitutions
If you like use half whole wheat flour for extra nuttiness though the crumb will be a bit denser. Almond extract is a flavorful twist in the glaze in place of vanilla. Swap in coconut milk and dairy free butter to make it suitable for a dairy free crowd
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake warm as a breakfast treat with black coffee or chai. For dessert top with whipped cream or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Lemon zest in the glaze also brings a bright new layer of flavor if you want to switch things up
Cultural Context
Coffee cakes like this are an American tradition evolved from European yeasted sweet breads. They became popular in the twentieth century as a no fuss companion for morning coffee or tea and continue to be a staple for casual gatherings
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg in winter for a festive twist Fold chopped apple pieces into the batter for a fall variation Top the glaze with fresh berries for a spring or summer brunch
Success Stories
Many bakers have shared that this cake recipe is the reliable crowd pleaser at family brunches potlucks and bake sales. It is easy enough for baking beginners but impressive enough for special occasions
Freezer Meal Conversion
Cut cooled cake into squares and freeze separated by parchment paper in a freezer safe container. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warm and soft again. The glaze holds up especially well after thawing
Save This cake is truly best enjoyed warm and fresh with a cup of coffee. Share it with friends or family for an instant bakery moment at home!
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve a perfect cinnamon swirl?
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it for an even, marbled look.
- → Can I substitute the milk for a non-dairy option?
Yes, use your favorite non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk to achieve similar texture and taste.
- → Why is my glaze too thin or thick?
If the glaze is too thin, add extra powdered sugar. For a thick glaze, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
- → What’s the best way to serve this cake?
Serve slightly warm for optimal softness, allowing the glaze to gently melt over the surface. Enjoy with coffee or tea.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days to maintain moisture and freshness.