Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake (Cake Mix Recipe)

There’s something about the warm aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar that instantly transports me back to lazy Sunday mornings in my grandmother’s kitchen. While she was all about baking from scratch, I’ve found a way to honor that comforting cinnamon roll flavor in a much more approachable way—through this Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake made easy with a boxed cake mix.

This recipe has become my go-to for brunch potlucks and cozy gatherings, not only because it’s irresistibly delicious, but also because it’s so simple even first-time bakers can nail it. With its soft layers, sweet cinnamon glaze, and velvety cream cheese frosting, it’s a cake that feels fancy but is secretly foolproof. Plus, it sneaks in some real comfort-food magic without demanding hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a quick and healthy-ish dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste, this is your new favorite.

Why This Cinnamon Roll Cake is Special

Cinnamon rolls are timeless, but making them from scratch can be intimidating and time-consuming. This Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake gives you all the nostalgic flavor with none of the stress. It’s a hybrid dessert—part classic cake, part breakfast indulgence. Using a simple yellow cake mix as the base, we build in layers of brown sugar and cinnamon, then elevate it with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting that feels bakery-level.

The best part? This is a highly customizable recipe. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, brunch, or just because it’s a Tuesday, this cake brings comfort and joy with every slice.

Ingredients and Preparation

Cake Base

• Yellow Cake Mix: The foundation of our cake. It’s reliable, consistent, and cuts down prep time dramatically.
• Cake Flour or All-Purpose Flour: Adds structure and tenderness, making the crumb softer and more luxurious.
• Brown Sugar: Brings that signature molasses depth, enhancing the cinnamon swirl.
• Ground Cinnamon: The hero spice—warm, aromatic, and unmistakably cozy.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and complexity.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and tang, mimicking the richness of a cinnamon roll dough.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Water: Helps the batter come together smoothly.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors with a warm, floral note.

Cinnamon Sugar Glaze

• Powdered Sugar: Dissolves easily and sweetens without grit.
• Brown Sugar: Doubles down on the caramel-like warmth.
• Cinnamon: Again, because you can never have too much.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the glaze.
• Hot Water: Helps everything dissolve into a silky syrup.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• Cream Cheese: Tangy and rich, the perfect balance to the sweet cake.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds body and richness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps the frosting hold its shape.
• Cinnamon: Carries the flavor theme through every layer.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the frosting with warm flavor.
• Salt: A tiny pinch prevents it from being too sweet.

Ingredient Alternatives

• No sour cream? Use Greek yogurt or even buttermilk.
• Want it dairy-free? Opt for plant-based yogurt and cream cheese alternatives.
• No cake flour? All-purpose flour works just fine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Preheat your oven to 325°F and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them, or lining them with parchment rounds for extra ease.

Step 2 In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake mix, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for about 30 seconds to evenly combine the dry ingredients.

Step 3 In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, water, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and beat with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed for two minutes. Scrape the bowl halfway through to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 4 Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 22–28 minutes, checking for doneness by lightly touching the center of the cake—it should spring back. Alternatively, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 5 While the cakes are baking, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and hot water until smooth.

Step 6 Once the cakes have cooled completely, brush each layer with the cinnamon sugar glaze. It should soak in almost immediately, infusing extra flavor and moisture.

Step 7 For the frosting, beat the butter until smooth, then add cream cheese and beat again until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla and gradually mix in powdered sugar and cinnamon until fluffy and spreadable. Chill briefly if it becomes too soft.

Step 8 To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate, brush with glaze, then spread a layer of frosting. Repeat with the second layer, and finish with the third. Apply a crumb coat—a thin layer of frosting—to trap crumbs, chill briefly, and then finish with your final coat of frosting.

Step 9 Decorate as you like. For a fun touch, swirl a darker cinnamon frosting on top or pipe simple borders using a star tip.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Cake too soft to frost? Chill the layers before assembling. Cold cake is easier to handle.
• Frosting too runny? Pop it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before spreading.
• No round pans? A 9×13 pan works great. Just bake a little longer and skip the layering.
• Want to save time? Make the cake layers a day ahead. Wrap them well and store at room temperature or refrigerate.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your cinnamon roll cake with:

• A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing contrast.
• A drizzle of maple syrup for true breakfast vibes.

Storage Tip: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting. The cake stays moist for up to 4 days, and the flavors deepen over time.

Conclusion

If you’re just getting started in the kitchen, this Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake is your golden ticket to baking confidence. With familiar ingredients, simple steps, and guaranteed wow-factor, it’s a recipe that feels like a win every time. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—did you go classic, or add your own twist? Share your experience in the comments. Let’s make baking joyful, one cinnamon swirl at a time.

FAQ About Cinnamon Roll Layer Cake

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