Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that combines the comfort of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a cake, then this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is just what you need! This recipe has been a beloved favorite in my home for years. It’s soft, fluffy, and filled with delightful swirls of cinnamon goodness. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving something sweet on a busy morning, this cake is perfect for any occasion.

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. With this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake, you can enjoy all those cozy flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly—perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require any special skills. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and warm up slices as needed. Perfect for busy mornings!
• Deliciously versatile: Enjoy it as breakfast or dessert! It’s great with coffee or tea at any time of day.
• Irresistible icing: The creamy icing adds the perfect finishing touch that takes this cake over the top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

For the Cake

• 1 ½ cups brown sugar
• 15 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¾ cup milk
• 3 large eggs
• 3 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups flour
• 3 tsp baking powder
• ¾ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 6 tbsp cinnamon

For the Icing

• 4 ½ tbsp salted butter
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 4 ½ tsp corn syrup
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 3 cups powdered sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is its flexibility! You can easily make it your own with a few simple swaps or additions.

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an extra crunch.
• Try different spices: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin spice during fall for a seasonal twist.
• Incorporate fruit: Add fresh apples or blueberries into the batter for added flavor and moisture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out easily when it’s done.

Step 2: Cream Together Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, cream together sugar and unsalted butter until light and airy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your batter, making your cake fluffy.

Step 3: Mix in Sour Cream

Add in sour cream to your creamed mixture. The sour cream not only adds moisture but also contributes to that rich flavor we love in cakes.

Step 4: Add Milk, Eggs, and Vanilla

Stir in milk, then add in eggs and vanilla extract until everything is well mixed together. These ingredients help bind everything while adding sweetness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution throughout your batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients into your wet mixture until fully combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our cake tender!

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

In yet another bowl (I know, lots of bowls!), combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create your filling. This mixture will give your cake those delicious swirls.

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. A smooth surface helps ensure even baking.

Step 9: Add Filling Swirls

Drizzle the filling mixture over the top of the batter and swirl it gently using a knife or toothpick. This creates those beautiful cinnamon swirls we all adore.

Step 10: Bake Your Cake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 23-25 minutes until golden brown. Trust me; you’ll want to keep an eye on it—the scent will be irresistible!

Step 11: Prepare the Icing

While your cake cools slightly after baking, prepare the icing by combining butter, sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and corn syrup in a saucepan. Bring it all to a boil while stirring gently.

Step 12: Stir In Cream Cheese

Remove from heat once thickened slightly; stir in cream cheese until fully melted into that luscious icing.

Step 13: Mix in Powdered Sugar

Gradually add powdered sugar to achieve your desired consistency—smooth but not too runny!

Step 14: Icing Time!

Let your icing cool slightly before pouring over the cooled cake. This little bit of patience ensures that your icing won’t melt right off!

Step 15: Cut & Serve

Finally! Cut into squares and serve warm if possible—your friends and family will thank you for this delightful treat!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

This Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is sure to impress, and with a few handy tips, you can make it even better!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs, butter, and sour cream to room temperature allows for better incorporation into the batter, resulting in a fluffier cake.
• Don’t skip the swirling: Swirling the cinnamon filling into the batter not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. You want it to be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
• Cool before icing: Allowing your cake to cool slightly before adding the icing prevents it from melting too much, which keeps that delicious drizzle intact and adds a lovely finish.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Presenting this delightful coffee cake can make all the difference in how it’s enjoyed. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor.
• Fresh fruit: A few slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries on the side can brighten up your plate and add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Whipped topping: A dollop of non-dairy whipped topping can create an indulgent touch that complements the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance and adds nutritional value to your meal.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a healthy, creamy side that pairs beautifully with coffee cake.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein alongside your sweet treat, making for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch option.
• Coffee or tea: The perfect beverage pairing! A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience and makes for a cozy morning ritual.

Now that you’re ready to whip up this scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake, gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy this delightful treat together! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without any fuss on busy mornings. You can prepare it in advance and store it for fresh, sweet indulgence whenever you crave it!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the cake into squares for easy freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired amount from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until heated through.
• For a freshly baked taste, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delightful Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake.

Can I use a different type of flour for Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blend. However, keep in mind that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?

To add extra flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling, or adding a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Just follow our storage tips, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready whenever you need it.

What can I serve with Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast experience.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake brings warmth and joy to your mornings! Its soft texture and sweet cinnamon swirls make it perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying alone. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a family favorite. Happy baking!