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Easy Box Mix Cinnamon Roll Cake Shortcut

Close-up of a moist slice of cinnamon roll cake with box cake mix, topped with thick, dripping vanilla icing.
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Make a comforting cinnamon roll cake quickly using a standard yellow cake mix base, complete with a rich cinnamon swirl and simple cream cheese frosting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • Ingredients listed on cake mix box for preparation (usually eggs, oil, water)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Glaze: 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or a 10-inch Bundt pan.
  2. Prepare the cake batter according to the directions on the yellow cake mix box, substituting any required water with milk if you want a richer cake, but follow the main instructions for eggs and oil. Mix until just combined.
  3. Prepare the cinnamon swirl filling: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and flour until crumbly. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared pan. Sprinkle the entire cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter layer.
  5. Gently pour the remaining cake batter over the cinnamon layer. Try not to mix the layers together; spread it carefully.
  6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Prepare the glaze: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until combined. Add the milk and vanilla extract, beating until the glaze is smooth and pourable.
  8. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Slice and serve this quick cinnamon swirl dessert.

Notes

  • Using a yellow cake mix provides a moist base that pairs well with the cinnamon flavor.
  • For a make ahead cinnamon swirl cake, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature before glazing.
  • If you prefer a doughnut cake recipe shortcut, use a Bundt pan and ensure you grease it very well.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/cinnamon-roll-cake-with-box-cake/