Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that will make your mornings feel special, this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is just the thing! It combines the delightful flavors of warm cinnamon rolls with the simplicity of a sheet cake. Whether it’s for a cozy family brunch or a holiday gathering, this cake is sure to impress. Plus, it can be made ahead of time—perfect for those busy mornings when you want something delicious without the fuss!

What makes this recipe truly special is its tender crumb and gooey cinnamon-sugar swirls. Topped with a rich icing, each bite feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your new favorite breakfast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip this up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cinnamon rolls, and this cake version is no exception!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance so you can enjoy a stress-free morning.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of cinnamon and icing makes for a sweet start to your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake. Each component works together to bring out the rich flavors and soft texture we love in this dish.

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 parts about this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Fruit Twist: Layer in some fresh berries or sliced apples for added flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Top with chocolate ganache instead of icing for a decadent treat.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper—this will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream Together Sugar and Butter

In a large bowl, cream together your sugar and butter until it’s light and airy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake a lovely fluffy texture!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now mix in the sour cream. Then add milk and stir until everything is combined. The sour cream adds moisture while also contributing to that tender crumb we all love.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Next, crack in your eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix well; these ingredients add richness and flavor that are key to our Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want that soft texture!

Step 7: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for our delicious filling. This mixture will create those irresistible swirls throughout our cake.

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

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

Step 9: Swirl in Filling Mixture

Drizzle the filling mixture over top of the batter. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl it into the batter gently. This step creates those beautiful cinnamon swirls that will melt in your mouth!

Step 10: Bake Your Cake

Bake for about 23-25 minutes until golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before icing.

Step 11: Make The Icing

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and corn syrup. Bring it to a boil while stirring constantly—it should thicken up nicely after about 3-4 minutes.

Step 12: Add Cream Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in cream cheese until fully melted—this adds richness to our icing!

Step 13: Mix In Powdered Sugar

Gradually mix in powdered sugar until you’ve reached your desired consistency—smooth but still pourable.

Step 14: Ice Your Cake

Let your icing cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cake. This creates that beautiful glaze we all crave!

Step 15: Serve & Enjoy

Cut into squares and serve warm! Each bite of this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is sure to bring smiles all around—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Making this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, enhancing the cake’s texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined prevents the cake from becoming dense. A light touch keeps it fluffy and soft!
• Swirl with care: When adding the filling, use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it in. Too much mixing can incorporate the filling into the batter rather than leaving those beautiful cinnamon swirls.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary; check your cake a couple of minutes before the suggested bake time by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool before icing: Allowing your cake to cool slightly before adding the icing helps it set perfectly without melting away into puddles.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy morning at home or a festive brunch gathering. Here’s how you can present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: Serve with slices of fresh strawberries or blueberries to add a pop of color and freshness.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on each slice makes for an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with coffee.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the coffee cake.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a tangy balance to the cake’s sweetness while keeping breakfast light.
• Scrambled eggs: Simple scrambled eggs add protein to your brunch spread and make for a well-rounded meal alongside the cake.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements this sweet treat beautifully, creating a comforting breakfast experience.

Enjoy your deliciously sweet start to the day with this easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake! Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends and family, it’s bound to be a hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you have a delicious breakfast treat ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, cut the cake into squares for easier thawing.
• Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired amount of cake on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake:

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with alternatives like unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water.

How do I ensure my Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake has a perfect swirl?

To achieve the best swirl, drizzle the filling mixture over the batter and use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it in. Don’t overmix!

Can I use different types of flour for the Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just note that this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about this delightful Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a cozy way to start your day or brighten up your brunch gatherings. With its sweet swirls and creamy icing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making this treat, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations you try! Happy baking!