Introduction
Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is the ultimate fusion of two beloved breakfast classics: the gooey, cinnamon-swirled delight of a cinnamon roll and the soft, buttery texture of a coffee cake. This decadent treat brings together the rich flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and cream cheese frosting into one irresistible baked dessert perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you need a comforting pick-me-up with your coffee.
The History
While the exact origin of Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake isn’t well-documented, it’s a modern twist on traditional American coffee cakes that have been around since colonial times. Coffee cake was originally designed to accompany a cup of coffee or tea, often featuring streusel toppings or swirled fillings. The addition of cinnamon roll elements—like the signature cinnamon-sugar swirl and cream cheese glaze—came later as bakers sought to recreate the popular flavors of cinnamon rolls in a denser, cake-like format.
Ingredients Breakdown
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and a soft crumb.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents to ensure a light rise.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor; should be softened for easy blending.
- Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and creates the caramel-like swirl when combined with cinnamon.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture.
- Milk: Creates a smooth, pourable batter.
- Cinnamon: Essential for the warm, aromatic flavor that defines this cake.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy, sweet topping that contrasts beautifully with the spiced cake.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor depth.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Spoon half of the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- For the cinnamon swirl: Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of flour. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Dollop remaining batter over the cinnamon layer and gently spread to cover.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before drizzling with cream cheese frosting.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Especially butter and eggs, which blend more smoothly for a uniform batter.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until ingredients are incorporated to avoid a tough texture.
- Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and running off the cake.
- Swirl creatively: Use a knife or skewer to create decorative swirls through the cinnamon layer for a bakery-style look.
Variations and Customizations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
- Fruity Flavor: Incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or diced apples into the batter.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in melted chocolate or add cocoa powder to part of the batter for a marbled effect.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the batter or frosting for a refreshing citrus contrast.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
This recipe is indulgent and best enjoyed in moderation. Each slice typically contains around 350–450 calories, depending on portion size and frosting amount. It’s high in carbohydrates and saturated fats due to the butter, sugar, and flour content. For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour, coconut oil instead of butter, or reducing the sugar slightly. You can also lighten the frosting by using low-fat cream cheese and less powdered sugar.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon flour (to prevent sinking)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternately with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
- Scoop half the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Sprinkle over the batter.
- Using spoonfuls, place remaining batter over the cinnamon mixture and gently spread to cover.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before preparing the frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
- Spread or drizzle the frosting over the cooled cake. Serve and enjoy!
FAQ
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly.
Can I use a different pan size?
A 9-inch round or square pan will work, but adjust baking time accordingly (start checking at 25–30 minutes).
Is there a dairy-free version?
Use vegan butter and plant-based milk in the cake and a vegan cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
Summary
Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls with the moist texture of a classic coffee cake, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.
Perfect for breakfast gatherings or anytime you crave a warm, comforting dessert paired perfectly with your morning coffee.
