A Delightful Twist on a Breakfast Classic
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Preparation Phase & Tools To Use
Tools:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls (at least 2)
- Electric mixer (hand or stand)
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients and Their Roles:
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): Forms the base of the cake, providing structure.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness to the cake batter.
- Baking powder (4 teaspoons): Acts as the leavening agent, making the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together, adding structure and richness.
- Milk (1 1/2 cups): Moistens the batter, making the cake tender.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds flavor depth.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
ADVERTISEMENT
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Creates the base of the swirl mixture.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Provides the classic cinnamon roll sweetness and moisture.
- Cinnamon (3 tablespoons): The key spice that gives the swirl its distinctive flavor.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the cinnamon swirl mixture.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Gives the frosting its rich, tangy flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps smooth out the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
- Milk or cream (1-2 tablespoons, as needed): Adjusts the consistency of the frosting to be spreadable.
ADVERTISEMENT
Step-By-Step Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vanilla, and melted butter. Beat until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour until well combined. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the cake batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake cools, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy. Adjust the consistency with milk or cream as needed.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for garnish.
ADVERTISEMENT
Time and Servings:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling)
- Servings: 12-15
ADVERTISEMENT
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:
This cinnamon roll cake, while a delightful treat, is rich in sugar and butter, making it more suitable for special occasions or indulgent mornings. However, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet in moderation. For a slightly healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour for the cake and reducing the amount of sugar in both the cake and frosting.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Underbaking: Make sure the cake is fully baked through to avoid a gooey center.
- Not Cooling Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Swirl Depth: When swirling the cinnamon mixture, don’t cut too deep; you want to create beautiful swirls rather than mixing it thoroughly into the batter.
Conclusion:
This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting offers all the flavors of a cinnamon roll in a delightful cake form. It’s perfect for