Big Mama’s Cinnamon Roll Cake

(All the Flavor of Cinnamon Rolls in One Easy Cake)

Big Mama’s Cinnamon Roll Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly makes a house feel like home. It’s rich, buttery, sweet, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor—everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls, but baked into one soft, tender cake. No yeast, no rolling, no waiting for dough to rise. Just mix, swirl, bake, and drizzle with icing.

This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting treat that feels like it came straight from Big Mama’s kitchen. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe gets passed down and baked again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake

No yeast, no kneading, no rolling
Soft, moist cake with gooey cinnamon swirls
Classic cream cheese-style glaze
Perfect for feeding a crowd
Tastes even better the next day

This cake delivers all the cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls with half the effort.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Yield: 12–16 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

Cake Batter

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1½ cups whole milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cinnamon Swirl

1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Vanilla Glaze

2 cups powdered sugar
5 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, mixing until smooth and lump-free.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until fully combined and thick.

Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture evenly over the cake batter.

Step 4: Create the Swirl

Using a butter knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter. Don’t overmix—distinct ribbons of cinnamon create the best texture and flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the cake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

The top should be lightly golden, and the cake should feel set but soft.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency if needed by adding a little more milk or powdered sugar.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the warm cake so it melts into every swirl and corner.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Cake

Don’t over-swirl—you want visible cinnamon ribbons.
Use whole milk for a richer, softer crumb.
Glaze while warm so it absorbs into the cake.
Line the pan with parchment if you want easy removal.
Let it rest before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Variations

Cream Cheese Glaze: Replace milk with softened cream cheese for a richer topping.
Nutty Version: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon layer.
Apple Cinnamon Cake: Add finely diced apples to the batter.
Extra Gooey: Double the cinnamon swirl mixture for an indulgent dessert.

Storage

Room Temperature: Cover tightly and store for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped individually for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with coffee or tea
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert
Perfect for brunch tables and holiday mornings
Delicious as a make-ahead breakfast cake

Final Thoughts

Big Mama’s Cinnamon Roll Cake is pure comfort food. It brings together the warmth of cinnamon rolls and the ease of a simple cake, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings and special gatherings alike. Soft, sweet, and dripping with vanilla glaze, this cake feels like a hug in every bite.