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If there’s one dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning or a cozy afternoon treat, it has to be the Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe. This cake captures all of the magic of a classic cinnamon roll but bakes up in one beautiful, gooey, fragrant dish that’s perfect for sharing. With layers of tender batter swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and finished off with a luscious glaze, this cake will have you swooning from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but incredibly important. Each one plays a vital role in the texture, flavor, and that irresistible gooey quality that makes this cake so special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and tenderness for the cake’s soft crumb.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the cinnamon’s spice.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Leavens the cake to give it a light, airy texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to richness.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for batter): Brings buttery flavor and moistness to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the batter.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Gives the cinnamon swirl a rich, caramelized sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: The star spice that infuses this cake with cozy flavor.
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for swirl): Creates the signature ooey gooey layers when baked.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the smooth, sweet glaze to finish the cake.
- 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Thins the powdered sugar for perfect drizzle consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Lifts and rounds out the sweetness of the icing.
How to Make Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and easily releases from the pan, making for a neat presentation every time.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This combination forms the base of your cake, so mixing well helps create an even texture throughout.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well blended. These wet ingredients will bring moisture and richness, helping your cake achieve that tender crumb.
Step 4: Bring Your Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir gently until just combined. Resist overmixing — you want a smooth, lumpy batter for the perfect crumb.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This sweet, spicy mixture is what truly makes this cake ooey and gooey, so don’t skimp here!
Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl
Pour half of the batter into your greased pan, then drizzle with half of the melted butter and sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar. Pour the remaining batter on top, then add the rest of the melted butter and cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter for beautiful marbling throughout the cake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it turns a golden brown and sets in the center. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is your cue that it’s almost ready!
Step 8: Make the Icing
While the cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This icing is the final touch that seals in the moisture and adds that signature sweetness.
Step 9: Drizzle and Serve Warm
Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to melt into the nooks and crannies, creating the delightful ooey gooey texture that makes this cake so irresistible.
How to Serve Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes
A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add texture and a hint of extra warmth. For a festive twist, scatter a few mini chocolate chips on top for contrasting sweetness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea complements the spices beautifully, turning your treat into a complete experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your cinnamon roll cake into squares or wedges and serve on a rustic wooden board for a charming look. For brunch, place slices next to fresh berries or a small fruit salad to brighten up the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. The glaze helps maintain moisture, but if your kitchen is warm, storing in an airtight container is best to keep the cake ooey and fresh.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture before serving.
Reheating
Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back the gooey softness or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Drizzle a little extra icing or melted butter to revive that fresh-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour in this recipe?
You can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect a denser texture and a slightly nuttier flavor. To keep it lighter, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The cake will still be wonderfully moist and delicious.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the cake?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even raisins make fantastic additions layered into the cinnamon swirl for extra texture and flavor.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and a set center; a toothpick inserted should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
Can I make this cake in a larger pan?
You can double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly — it may take a little longer. Keep an eye on the cake and test for doneness as it bakes.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe, it’s going to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s easy enough to whip up for everyday breakfasts or special occasions, and it fills your home with the most delightful aromas. Whether serving it for friends, family, or just enjoying a slice (or two!) yourself, this cake delivers warmth, comfort, and that perfectly balanced sweetness that feels like a special treat every time.
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Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make cake form. With a tender batter swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, it delivers a delightful dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave something sweet and satisfying.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for batter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for cinnamon swirl)
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract thoroughly.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, blend the brown sugar and cinnamon until well mixed for the cinnamon swirl.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of the melted butter over the batter, then sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar evenly on top.
- Add Remaining Batter and Swirl: Pour the remaining batter over the first layer. Using a knife, swirl in the remaining melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set in the center.
- Make Icing: While the cake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth icing.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the icing over the warm cake before serving to enjoy the ooey gooey texture and sweet cinnamon flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk slightly.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before adding icing to prevent it from melting too much.
- This cake is best served warm but can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.


