Cinnamon Bun Cake Recipe

Imagine the scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, enveloping your senses in warmth and comfort. Our Cinnamon Bun Cake offers that delightful experience in every bite, combining the classic flavors of cinnamon buns with the ease of a cake. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Bun Cake recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional cinnamon roll. It’s quick to prepare, requiring less time and effort than rolling out dough. The cake is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delicious glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, the optional nuts provide a satisfying crunch for those who enjoy a bit of texture.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Electric mixer or stand-up mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Whisk
• Knife for swirling

Ingredients

• 3 cups flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 4 T butter, melted
• 2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 T flour
• 1 T cinnamon
• 2/3 cups nuts (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 T milk
• 1 tsp vanilla

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla using an electric mixer or stand-up mixer.
3. Gradually mix in the melted butter until the batter is smooth.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
5. In another bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) until well combined.
6. Drop this mixture by the tablespoon over the cake batter, then use a knife to create a swirling pattern.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out nearly clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
9. Once the cake is done, drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter is softened to easily mix with the sugar and other ingredients.
• To avoid overbaking, check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
• If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the amount of milk slightly.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding raisins or chopped apples to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts.
• Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact values may vary, each serving of this Cinnamon Bun Cake is estimated to provide a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars. It’s a delightful treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?
  Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and glaze it just before serving for best results.
• Can I freeze this cake?
  Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
• What can I use as a substitute for nuts?
  You can omit the nuts or replace them with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this Cinnamon Bun Cake as much as we do. It’s a simple yet satisfying treat that brings the comforting flavors of cinnamon buns to your table. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!