Name: Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe
Prep time: 3 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Dough:; 2¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 2¼ tsp Platinum Yeast by Red Star; ¾ cup whole milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 large egg; For Filling:; ¼ cup unsalted butter; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; For Vanilla Icing:; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Imagine the delight of a classic cinnamon roll transformed into a giant, shareable treat. This giant cinnamon roll cake is perfect for brunches, special breakfasts, or anytime you want to impress with a towering swirl of sugary, buttery goodness.

Photos of Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in your pantry or refrigerator. However, you may need to ensure you have platinum yeast by Red Star, which is a specific type of yeast known for its reliability and performance in baking. Make sure to check the baking section at your local supermarket for this item.

Ingredients For Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

All-purpose flour: The base of our dough, providing structure and texture.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

Salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

Platinum yeast by Red Star: Key for dough rising, ensuring a fluffy texture.

Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Unsalted butter: Used in both dough and filling for a buttery taste.

Large egg: Adds richness and helps bind the dough.

Brown sugar: Used in the filling for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.

Confectioners’ sugar: Used in the icing for a sweet finishing touch.

Pure vanilla extract: Adds flavor depth to the icing.

One reader, Arch Thorpe says:

This giant cinnamon roll cake recipe is a game-changer! The dough is perfectly soft and the cinnamon filling is heavenly. The vanilla icing adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's a delightful treat that's sure to impress everyone.

Arch Thorpe

Techniques Required for Making a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

How to heat milk and butter: Heat the milk and butter together in the microwave until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm to the touch, between 100 to 110 degrees F. How to knead dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it with lightly floured hands for 3 minutes. After kneading, poke the dough with a finger – if it slowly bounces back, the dough is ready. If not, keep kneading. How to roll dough: Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a 15x12-inch rectangle. How to cut dough: Using a very sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 6 2-inch wide strips. How to shape cinnamon roll cake: Roll up one strip and place it in the center of the pan. Coil the remaining 5 strips around the center roll, starting each strip at the end of the previous one to make 1 large cinnamon roll.

How To Make Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Moist and dense, this giant cinnamon roll cake is a sure crowd pleaser! Smothered with sweet vanilla icing for a delightful dish that’s baked in 30 minutes.

Preparation: 3 hours

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 3 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Dough:

2¾cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled, plus more as needed
¼cupgranulated sugar
1tspsalt
2¼tspPlatinum yeast by Red Star,(1 standard packet)
¾cupwhole milk
¼cupunsalted butter
1large egg,at room temperature

For Filling:

¼cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
¼cupbrown sugar,or granulated sugar, packed light or dark
1tbspground cinnamon

For Vanilla Icing:

1cupconfectioners’ sugar
2tbspmilk,or heavy cream
1tsppure vanilla extract

Instructions

Dough:

Whisk the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together. Set aside. Heat the milk and butter together in the microwave until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm to the touch, between 100 to 110 degrees F.
Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the egg.
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment, or using a rubber spatula and mixing by hand, beat the mixture until a soft dough forms. Dough is ready when it gently pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With lightly floured hands, knead the dough for 3 minutes. After kneading, poke the dough with a finger – if it slowly bounces back, the dough is ready. If not, keep kneading.
Form the dough into a ball on your work surface. Cover it with a clean towel, aluminum foil, or plastic wrap, then let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Filling:

After 30 minutes, use a rolling pin to roll the dough out into a 15×12-inch rectangle. Evenly spread the softened butter on top. Mix the sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle it all over the buttered dough.
Grease a 9-inch round pie dish or cake pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Cinnamon Roll Cake:

Using a very sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 6 2-inch wide strips. Roll up one strip and place it in the center of the pan.
Coil the remaining 5 strips around the center roll, starting each strip at the end of the previous one to make 1 large cinnamon roll. The filling may spill out, just sprinkle it on top of the cake after shaping it.
Loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a relatively warm, draft-free environment for 1 to 2 hours or until double in size.
After the cake’s dough has doubled in size, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown. If the top or edges is browning too quickly, tent the cake with aluminum foil.
While the giant cinnamon roll cake is baking, some spots may rise up more than other spots. Remove the pan from the oven and, with the back of a spatula, press down the spots that are rising to keep them even. Return to baking.
Remove the finished cinnamon roll cake from the oven and cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the icing.

Vanilla Icing:

Whisk the icing ingredients together. For a thicker icing, whisk in more confectioners’ sugar. For a thinner icing, whisk in more milk or cream.
Drizzle all over warm cake and serve.

Recipe Notes

If the dough is pretty sticky, beat in 2 to 4 extra tablespoons of flour.
If you’d rather use the mixer to knead the dough, beat it on low speed for 3 minutes instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 390.64kcal
Fat: 13.49g
Saturated Fat: 8.06g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.78g
Carbohydrates: 61.10g
Fiber: 1.98g
Sugar: 26.89g
Protein: 6.68g
Cholesterol: 56.42mg
Sodium: 275.42mg
Calcium: 57.73mg
Potassium: 115.38mg
Iron: 2.27mg
Vitamin A: 119.44µg
Vitamin C: 0.04mg

Technique Tip for Making the Perfect Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

When rolling out the dough into a 15x12-inch rectangle, ensure that the surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking. Use even pressure with the rolling pin to maintain a consistent thickness throughout the dough. This will help in achieving an even bake and a uniform texture in your giant cinnamon roll cake.

Time-Saving Tips for Making a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This streamlines the process and ensures you don't miss anything.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment can save time and effort when mixing and kneading the dough.

Soften butter quickly: Cut the butter into small pieces and microwave for a few seconds to soften it faster for the filling.

Preheat oven early: Turn on the oven while the dough is rising to save time later.

Use a pizza cutter: A pizza cutter makes cutting the dough into strips quicker and more uniform.

Substitute Ingredients For Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the dough denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile.
platinum yeast by red star - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast is a common alternative and works similarly in dough recipes.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that can be used to reduce calories and fat.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat that can add a slight coconut flavor and is dairy-free.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) is a vegan alternative that helps bind the dough.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: Powdered coconut sugar is a less processed alternative with a slight caramel flavor.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Vanilla bean paste provides a more intense vanilla flavor and includes vanilla bean specks.

Best Way to Present a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the giant cinnamon roll cake into elegant, manageable portions. Each slice should showcase the beautiful spiral of cinnamon and sugar filling.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar and a drizzle of the vanilla icing. Add a few fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Add texture contrast: Serve the cake with a side of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy texture will complement the warm, spiced cake perfectly.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small bowl of cinnamon sticks and brown sugar crystals on the table. This not only adds to the visual appeal but also emphasizes the key flavors in the dish.
Create a focal point: Position the giant cinnamon roll cake slice slightly off-center on a large, white plate. This draws the eye to the cake and makes it the star of the presentation.
Incorporate height: Stack two slices of the cake slightly askew to add height and dimension to the plate. This creates a more dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Use high-quality serveware: Present the cake on fine china or a sleek, modern plate. The elegance of the serveware will elevate the overall presentation and make it more fitting for a Michelin-star setting.
Add a touch of luxury: Finish the dish with a light sprinkle of edible gold leaf. This adds a luxurious touch and makes the cake feel even more special and indulgent.

Essential Tools for Making a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the dry and wet ingredients for the dough.
Whisk: Used to mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together.
Microwave: Heats the milk and butter until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
Handheld mixer: An electric mixer used to beat the dough mixture until a soft dough forms.
Stand mixer: An alternative to the handheld mixer, fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment to mix the dough.
Rubber spatula: Used for mixing the dough by hand if not using an electric mixer.
Rolling pin: Rolls the dough out into a 15x12-inch rectangle.
Sharp knife: Cuts the dough into 2-inch wide strips.
Pizza cutter: An alternative to the sharp knife for cutting the dough into strips.
9-inch round pie dish: The baking dish where the giant cinnamon roll cake will be assembled and baked.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the dough while it rises and to tent the cake if it browns too quickly.
Plastic wrap: An alternative to aluminum foil for covering the dough while it rises.
Wire rack: Cools the finished cinnamon roll cake after baking.
Spatula: Presses down any spots that rise more than others during baking to keep the cake even.
Measuring cups: Measures the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measures smaller quantities of ingredients like yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
Oven: Bakes the giant cinnamon roll cake to golden brown perfection.

How To Store and Freeze a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cover leftover cake and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Individual slices of the cinnamon roll cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as desired.
To freeze the entire cake, cool completely and do not ice. Wrap the cake in 2 layers of plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before icing and serving.
You can also freeze the cake after it has been iced. Place the iced cake uncovered in the freezer for 1-2 hours or until the icing is solid. Remove from the freezer and cover tightly with 2 layers of plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving.
To reheat the entire cinnamon roll cake, bake in a 300°F (149°C) oven for 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
For quick reheating of individual slices, microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.

How To Reheat Leftover Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

To reheat leftover giant cinnamon roll cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will prevent the cake from drying out or becoming too brown on top.
Another option is to reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds, or until warm. If the slice is particularly large or dense, you may need to increase the time slightly. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cake to become tough or rubbery.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can also reheat slices of giant cinnamon roll cake in a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to restore some of the cake's original moisture and softness, try reheating it in a steamer basket over simmering water. Place the cake slice in the steamer basket, cover it, and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. This method works particularly well for larger pieces of cake.
For a tasty twist, try reheating a slice of giant cinnamon roll cake in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat, then place the cake slice in the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. The butter will add a rich, decadent flavor to the already delicious cake.

Random Fact About Giant Cinnamon Roll Cakes

A fun fact about this giant cinnamon roll cake recipe is that it combines the best of both worlds: the delightful flavor of a classic cinnamon roll and the impressive presentation of a cake. This makes it perfect for special occasions or gatherings where you want to wow your guests with a unique and delicious treat.

Is Making a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Economical for Home Cooking?

This giant cinnamon roll cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and milk are pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$12 USD. Considering the size and deliciousness, it’s a great value for a delightful dessert. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This giant cinnamon roll cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of all-purpose flour, sugar, and butter, which are high in calories and saturated fat. The use of whole milk and confectioners' sugar in the icing further adds to the calorie and sugar content. While this cake can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it should not be considered a regular part of a balanced diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed avocado
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative in the dough and icing to reduce the saturated fat content
Incorporate some finely grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, into the dough to add moisture and nutrients
Top the cake with a drizzle of yogurt-based icing and fresh fruit instead of the traditional vanilla icing to reduce sugar and add nutritional benefits

Editor's Thoughts on This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

This giant cinnamon roll cake recipe is a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for sharing. The dough is straightforward to prepare, and the filling offers a rich, cinnamon-sugar flavor that complements the soft, buttery layers. The unique coiling method creates an impressive presentation, while the vanilla icing adds a sweet finishing touch. Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving the desired texture. Overall, this recipe is well-structured and yields a visually stunning, delicious dessert that will impress any crowd.

Enhance Your Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fresh Berry Salad: Imagine a vibrant medley of berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—tossed with a hint of mint and a drizzle of honey. This refreshing side-dish adds a burst of color and a tangy contrast to the sweet and spiced giant cinnamon roll cake.

Maple-Glazed Bacon: Crispy bacon strips glazed with a rich maple syrup offer a savory and sweet balance to your dessert. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and sugar notes of the cake, creating a delightful harmony.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream melting over a warm slice of the giant cinnamon roll cake is pure indulgence. The cold, smooth texture of the ice cream complements the warm, fluffy cake, making each bite a heavenly experience.

Spiced Apple Compote: Warm apple slices cooked with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of brown sugar create a comforting compote. This side-dish adds a fruity, spiced element that enhances the flavors of the cinnamon roll cake, making it even more irresistible.

Hazelnut Coffee: A steaming cup of hazelnut coffee with its nutty aroma and rich flavor is the perfect beverage to accompany your dessert. The coffee's slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a well-rounded and satisfying end to your meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to a Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake

Cinnamon Roll Muffins: If you love the idea of a giant cinnamon roll cake, why not try making cinnamon roll muffins? These individual-sized treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. The same delicious cinnamon and sugar filling, but in a convenient, portable form.

Sticky Buns: For a gooey, caramelized twist on the classic cinnamon roll, sticky buns are a must-try. These buns are rolled with a brown sugar and butter filling, then baked in a caramel sauce that creates a sticky, sweet topping.

Apple Cinnamon Roll Cake: Combine the flavors of apple pie and cinnamon rolls in this delightful apple cinnamon roll cake. Fresh apples are layered with cinnamon and sugar, then rolled into a cake that's perfect for fall or any time of year.

Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls: Embrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls. These rolls incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice into the dough, creating a seasonal twist on the classic cinnamon roll.

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: For a decadent treat, try chocolate cinnamon rolls. These rolls feature a chocolate and cinnamon filling, and can be topped with a chocolate glaze for an extra indulgent dessert.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with This Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites feature cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, creating a golden, bubbly topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy mushrooms. Serve these at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with Bruschetta. This classic appetizer showcases toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze, each bite is a burst of fresh, zesty flavors. Perfect for a summer evening or any occasion that calls for a touch of Mediterranean flair.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The bright flavors of the lemon and herbs make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with spices and herbs. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and nutritious option. Top with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.

Why trust this Giant Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe:

This giant cinnamon roll cake recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Using platinum yeast ensures a perfect rise, while the combination of brown sugar and ground cinnamon creates an irresistible filling. The vanilla icing adds a delightful finishing touch. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even beginners can achieve bakery-quality results. Trust this recipe for a delicious, impressive treat that will wow your family and friends.

Want to share your experience making this giant cinnamon roll cake or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use instant yeast instead of platinum yeast by Red Star?

Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute. Just make sure to follow the same measurements and instructions.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel puffy. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours in a warm, draft-free environment.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.

What if I don't have a 9-inch round pie dish or cake pan?

No worries! You can use a similar-sized baking dish or even a springform pan. Just make sure it's well-greased.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cinnamon roll cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.