Cinnamon Roll Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A delightful cinnamon roll cake featuring rich flavors of cinnamon, pecans, and sweet brown sugar, perfect for breakfast or dessert, appealing to cinnamon lovers and sweet tooths alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 yellow cake mix
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 small sour cream
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix cake mix, sugar, eggs, and sour cream in a bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped pecans, and cinnamon.
  3. Pour the cake mixture into a greased baking pan.
  4. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar-pecan mixture evenly over the batter.
  5. Bake at 350°F until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30 minutes.
  6. Punch holes into the hot cake with a fork or skewer.
  7. Drizzle with glaze or frosting as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a butter cake mix instead of yellow. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if needed. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds. Be sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake. This cake is reminiscent of the popular Daffodil Easter Cake in its delightful spring flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cinnamon Roll Cake warm for the best experience, drizzled with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea for a delightful brunch. You can also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. This cake is perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of day.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cinnamon Roll Cake contains roughly 291 calories, with 3g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 18g fat.

291 kcal 15% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 18.5g 24% DV
Carbs 30.7g 11% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 10.2g 20% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 84.8mg 4% DV
Potassium 182.7mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 43.9mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 3.8mg 4% DV
Calcium 76.1mg 6% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just ensure it is completely cooled before covering and refrigerating. When ready to serve, you can warm individual slices in the microwave or enjoy it chilled. This makes it a convenient option for brunches or gatherings.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you need a nut-free option, you can omit the pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds. For added crunch, consider using rolled oats or shredded coconut. These substitutions will still provide a delightful texture without the nuts.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, which typically takes about 30 minutes at 350°F. If the top is golden brown and slightly springs back when touched, that's another good indicator that it's ready to come out of the oven.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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