Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle Recipe
If you love the irresistible warmth of cinnamon rolls but want something easier to share and quicker to bake, then this Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, buttery cake layers swirled with a rich cinnamon-brown sugar filling, all crowned with a luscious condensed milk drizzle that adds just the right touch of sweetness and creaminess. It’s like a hug in dessert form, perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon treats, or whenever you crave that cinnamon magic without the fuss of rolling dough.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, coming together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. These simple staples blend to make a moist, tender cake with that signature cinnamon swirl and the dreamy condensed milk drizzle that ties it all together.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, providing structure and tenderness.
- White sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a delicate crumb texture.
- Baking powder: Gives the cake a lovely rise and lightness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth, ensuring a soft crumb.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- Melted butter: Brings buttery flavor and tender texture to the batter.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warm, sweet aroma that complements cinnamon beautifully.
- Softened butter (for cinnamon swirl): Combines with sugar and cinnamon to create that irresistibly gooey filling.
- Brown sugar: Offers deep molasses notes and moistness in the cinnamon swirl.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings the iconic warm and slightly spicy flavor.
- Flour (in swirl): Helps thicken the filling so it holds its shape inside the cake.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Makes the luscious drizzle that melts into the cake for extra sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Batter
Start by warming your oven to 175°C (350°F) so it’s ready when your batter is mixed. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This dry base is key to a fluffy cake. In another bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, then gradually beat these wet ingredients into the dry mixture until silky and smooth, ready to pour into your greased baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Now for the star of the show—the cinnamon swirl. Mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of flour into a thick, fragrant paste. The brown sugar and cinnamon create that signature sweet-spicy filling, while the flour keeps it from melting away too much during baking.
Step 3: Create the Swirl in the Cake
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter in your pan. Using a knife or spatula, swirl it gently through the cake. This step creates those beautiful ribbons of cinnamon that promise flavor in every bite, making the cake look as amazing as it tastes.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for around 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center springs back lightly and the cinnamon swirls bubble softly at the surface. Let the cake cool just a bit before moving on to the final touch.
Step 5: Make and Add the Condensed Milk Drizzle
While the cake cools slightly, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk with vanilla and a splash of regular milk if needed to loosen it. Pour this heavenly drizzle over the warm cake so it sinks into all the swirls and edges, creating a rich, creamy glaze that’s simply irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle
Garnishes
You can keep it classic with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate finish, or add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that complements the softness. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top also amps up the warmth and aroma enticing your guests before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a more balanced snack, a cup of lightly brewed coffee or a chai latte enhances the cinnamon and vanilla notes in the cake without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices on rustic wooden boards with a few edible flowers or fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears to brighten the plate visually and add a refreshing contrast. You can also cut this cake into muffin-sized portions for a charming brunch option or party treat that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, keep your leftover Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay moist and delicious at room temperature for up to 2 days or fresh for 4 days refrigerated.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap individual slices or the whole cake well in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave a single slice for about 20 seconds to bring back that just-baked softness and let the condensed milk drizzle soften even more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk in the cake batter?
Absolutely! Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but you can substitute with plant-based milks like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind these may slightly alter the texture or taste.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free baking blend, you can enjoy this cake without gluten. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for the best results.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon swirl?
Definitely! Chopped nuts or raisins folded into the cinnamon mixture make a delightful textural contrast and add bursts of flavor that complement the cake beautifully.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Look for a golden-brown top with bubbling cinnamon swirls. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I store the cake without the condensed milk drizzle?
Yes, if you prefer to drizzle just before serving, you can store the cake plain, wrapped well, and add the condensed milk drizzle fresh each time to keep it from becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Condensed Milk Drizzle is one of those recipes that feels like it was made just for comfort and joy. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring a quiet moment with a cup of tea, it never fails to deliver a smile. I encourage you to give this delightful cake a try and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite.
