Indulge in the comforting flavors of a freshly baked Easy Cinnamon Bun Cake, a recipe that brings the classic taste of cinnamon rolls into a moist, tender cake form. With layers of sweet cinnamon sugar swirls and a luscious frosting to top it off, this cake is the perfect blend of cozy and decadent. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something sweet, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Bonus? It’s incredibly simple to make, and you don’t need to be a baking expert to achieve professional results!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Bun Cake
- Quick and Easy: Made with a box cake mix and a few pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for when you want a homemade treat without the hassle.
- Rich Flavor: The warm cinnamon sugar swirl gives this cake a delightful flavor reminiscent of your favorite cinnamon rolls.
- Versatile: Serve it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or even as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s always a hit at gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake stays fresh for days and can even be frozen for later indulgence.
About the Recipe
There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. That’s why this cake is such a joy to bake! When I first made this recipe, I was amazed by how much it tasted like a soft, gooey cinnamon roll—but in cake form. The best part? It’s much faster to prepare than rolling out dough and waiting for it to rise.
With a swirl of brown sugar and cinnamon baked into every bite and a silky frosting to finish, this cake is irresistible. You’ll love how the sweetness of the frosting perfectly balances the warmth of the cinnamon. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to deliver delicious results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this delicious Easy Cinnamon Bun Cake doesn’t require a long list of fancy ingredients. Most of the items are pantry staples, making this a go-to recipe for any time you’re craving something sweet and cozy.
For the Cake:
- 1 box Vanilla Cake Mix: The foundation of this recipe—easy and reliable.
- 4 eggs: Adds richness and structure to the cake.
- ¾ cup oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender. Feel free to use vegetable oil or any mild-flavored oil.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang for a balanced flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar: For the irresistible cinnamon swirl.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: The star of the show, giving the cake its signature flavor.
For the Frosting:
- 2 cups powdered icing sugar: Essential for a smooth, sweet finish.
- ¾ cup milk (as needed): Adjust the consistency of the frosting to your liking.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the flavor of the frosting and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Here are a few tools to make the baking process smooth and effortless:
- 9″ x 13″ Cake Pan: Perfect for baking the cake evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key for this recipe!
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one for the batter and another for the frosting.
- Electric Mixer: Makes mixing the batter and frosting a breeze.
- Offset Spatula: Handy for swirling the cinnamon mixture and spreading the frosting.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Bun Cake
This recipe is designed to be straightforward, so whether it’s your first cake or your fiftieth, you’ll have no trouble whipping it up! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly swirled, fluffy, and frosted cake every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9″ x 13″ cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal later. Set the pan aside.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, oil, and Greek yogurt. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture for 2 full minutes until smooth and creamy. This step ensures the cake will bake evenly and have a tender crumb.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the prepared cake batter in the pan. Then, use a spoon or an offset spatula to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Don’t overmix—aim for a marbled effect to get that classic cinnamon bun look.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Assembling the Cake
The frosting is the finishing touch that transforms this cake into a true cinnamon bun-inspired delight. Follow these steps to create a creamy, sweet glaze and assemble your cake.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, half of the milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable but not runny.
Step 6: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the frosting over the top. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring every corner is covered. For a more polished look, you can allow the frosting to drip slightly down the sides.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Bun Cake
- Don’t Skip the Swirl: The cinnamon-sugar swirl is what gives this cake its signature flavor. Make sure to distribute it evenly and swirl just enough for a marbled effect.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: If the cake is still warm, the frosting may melt and become too thin.
- Experiment with Add-Ons: For extra flair, consider sprinkling chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce over the frosting.
Storing and Serving
This cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later indulgence. Cover it tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While vanilla cake mix works best for that classic cinnamon bun flavor, you can experiment with yellow or spice cake mix for a slightly different twist.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk in the frosting.
3. Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes! This cake can be baked a day ahead. Just wait to add the frosting until shortly before serving to keep it fresh.
4. Why is my cake too dense?
Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Be sure to mix just until combined for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Cinnamon Bun Cake is everything you love about cinnamon buns, simplified into a moist and flavorful cake. With its delightful cinnamon swirls and creamy frosting, it’s bound to be a hit at your next gathering or even as a midweek treat.
So what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven and give this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe a try. I promise it will leave everyone asking for seconds!
