Origin and Sweet Inspiration

Cinna-bun cake is inspired by the classic cinnamon roll, a beloved treat that traces back to Sweden where it’s known as “Kanelbulle.” Over time, this treat has been adapted into cake form, offering all the flavors of soft, cinnamon-filled rolls in a simple sheet cake. The key ingredients—flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter—combine to give the cake its signature tender texture and rich, sweet flavor. Cinnamon is not just tasty but has antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar, making it a flavorful yet beneficial addition. Baking this cake is easier than traditional rolls, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Base Ingredients and Their Role

The base of the Cinna-Bun Cake uses flour, milk, eggs, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla to create a soft, fluffy texture. Flour provides structure, while eggs enrich the batter with protein and moisture. Milk adds tenderness and helps dissolve sugar, contributing to a light, airy crumb. Sugar sweetens and helps with browning, while butter adds richness and flavor. Baking powder ensures the cake rises properly, creating a tender and fluffy result. This combination creates a perfect canvas for the cinnamon-sugar topping and glaze, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.

Topping and Glaze for Maximum Flavor

The topping blends softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Brown sugar gives a deep caramel flavor, while cinnamon adds aromatic spice. Swirling it into the base before baking ensures the flavors infuse the cake. After baking, a simple glaze of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla creates a sweet, creamy finish. The glaze not only enhances the flavor but also adds a glossy, irresistible appearance. Together, the topping and glaze transform a simple cake into a dessert that tastes like a warm, gooey cinnamon bun in every slice.

Ingredients

Base:

• 3 cups flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Topping:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tbsp cinnamon

Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla, then stir in melted butter. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, mix butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Drop teaspoonfuls over the base and use a butter knife to gently swirl the topping into the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve

While still warm, drizzle glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla over the cake. Slice and enjoy warm or cooled.

Timing & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 28-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Approx. Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but the cake will be denser and slightly nuttier in flavor.

Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake it a day ahead, store in an airtight container, and glaze before serving for best freshness.

Q3: Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or raisins can be added to the batter or topping for extra texture and flavor.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Texture may vary slightly.

Q5: Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, the cake will still taste amazing without it, though the glaze adds sweetness and visual appeal.