If you have a soft spot for classic cinnamon rolls but crave something a little different, the Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe is here to steal your heart. This delightful dessert captures all the warmth and spice of cinnamon rolls in a luscious cake form, offering layers of gooey sweetness and a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or any time you want to spoil yourself, this cake is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s easier than you think to make from scratch.

Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients ensures your Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe comes out perfectly every time. Each component plays a key role in creating that tender texture, rich flavor, and beautiful golden color that define this cake.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake’s soft and tender crumb.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization for that golden crust.
Baking powder: Leavens the cake, making it rise just right.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Milk: Moistens the batter and contributes to a rich, soft texture.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure while keeping it tender.
Melted butter: Adds buttery flavor and richness; also helps create the ooey gooey layers.
Vanilla extract: Builds depth and sweetness in the flavor profile.
Brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon filling for a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the cake with warmth and aroma.
Powdered sugar: The base for the glaze that adds that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly; this helps the cake release easily and develop a beautiful crust on the bottom and edges.

Step 2: Combine Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This mix forms the base of your cake batter and ensures even distribution of leavening agents and sweetness throughout the cake.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. These wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, making the cake delightfully soft and flavorful.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mix into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender. The batter should be smooth but a bit thick, ready for that amazing cinnamon swirl.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This sweet-spicy blend is what creates the cake’s signature ooey gooey pockets, giving every bite a burst of warmth and gooey delight.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar

Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the batter, then sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mix on top. This layering helps create distinct cinnamon ribbons throughout the cake.

Step 7: Add Remaining Batter and Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture

Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer, smoothing it out. Drizzle the rest of the melted butter and sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar, then use a knife to swirl the cinnamon mixture gently into the top layer. This technique ensures that glorious ooey gooey swirl inside the cake.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The edges will be crisp and fragrant, the inside soft and irresistible.

Step 9: Make the Icing

While the cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze. This icing adds the perfect sweet finish that melts into the warm cake beautifully.

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve Warm

Drizzle the icing generously over the cake while it’s still warm so it seeps into every nook and cranny, sealing in that ooey gooey magic. Serve slices warm for the ultimate comforting treat!

How to Serve Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly whisked whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with this cake, enhancing its warmth and richness. For a pretty touch, sprinkle some chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top.

Side Dishes

Keep it simple with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, which contrast nicely with the sweetness and spices. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or creamy scrambled eggs for a delightful balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform the cake into individual portions by baking it in a muffin tin for personal cinnamon roll cakes. You can also layer it with cream cheese frosting and fresh berries in a trifle dish for an elegant twist on the Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve the cake’s moisture and keep it fresh. If your kitchen is warm, storing in the fridge is okay but may slightly firm up the icing.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready, then refresh with a few seconds in the microwave or oven for that fresh-baked feel.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in a low-temperature oven to bring back that ooey gooey texture. A light drizzle of extra icing or butter after warming will amplify the indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it will make the cake denser and slightly less tender. You might want to try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a good balance.

Is this cake suitable for freezing before baking?

It’s best to bake this cake fresh after assembling. Freezing the batter can affect the texture of the swirls and the rise. However, the baked cake freezes beautifully and retains its flavor.

How do I ensure the cinnamon swirls don’t sink to the bottom?

Layer the batter carefully and swirl gently with a knife rather than stirring vigorously. Drizzling melted butter over the cinnamon sugar also helps it stay suspended and gooey throughout the cake.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavor and texture will still be deliciously moist and buttery.

What makes this cake ooey gooey?

The secret lies in the melted butter teamed with brown sugar and cinnamon layers that create sticky, caramelized pockets throughout the cake. Plus, the warm vanilla glaze drizzled on top completes the ooey gooey experience you’ll want again and again.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe, turning a classic breakfast treat into a tender, sliceable delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a laid-back brunch or a cozy dessert night, this cake delivers big flavor and comfort all in one. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own new favorite indulgence!

Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

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3.8 from 81 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake is a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a moist, tender cake layered with cinnamon sugar and finished with a sweet, creamy icing drizzle. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, it offers all the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls without the fuss of individual rolling and slicing.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter (plus additional for drizzling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 cup melted butter

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Form batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Prepare cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together to create the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Layer batter and cinnamon sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the batter, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly on top.
Top with remaining batter and cinnamon swirl: Pour the remaining batter over the layer, then drizzle the remaining melted butter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to swirl the cinnamon sugar gently into the batter for a marbled effect.
Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the center.
Make the icing: While the cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
Serve: Drizzle the icing evenly over the warm cake before slicing and serving for the best ooey gooey experience.

Notes

Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
Use full-fat milk for richer flavor, or substitute with a dairy alternative if preferred.
For extra gooeyness, serve the cake warm.
Optional: add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American