1. What is the difference between cinnamon bun and cinnamon roll?

Cinnamon buns are often baked with a sticky glaze or nuts on top, while cinnamon rolls are usually iced after baking. Both are sweet, spiced pastries, but buns can be a bit denser and more caramelized.

2. Is a cinnamon bun a cake?

Traditionally, a cinnamon bun is a yeast-raised pastry, not a cake. However, Cinna Bun Cake Recipe turns those classic flavors into an easy, sliceable cake version!

3. What is the origin of the cinnamon bun?

Cinnamon buns originated in Northern Europe, especially Sweden, where they're called "kanelbulle." They became popular worldwide for their soft dough, sweet filling, and cozy spice.

4. What is cinnamon bun frosting made of?

Classic cinnamon bun frosting is usually made from powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract. Some versions add cream cheese for a tangy, creamy touch.

5. What is the difference between a morning bun and a cinnamon roll?

Morning buns use croissant-like dough for a flakier, buttery texture and often have citrus zest in the filling. Cinnamon rolls are made from a softer, bread-like dough with a simple cinnamon-sugar swirl.

6. What do British people call cinnamon rolls?

In the UK, cinnamon rolls are often called "cinnamon swirls" or "Chelsea buns" (which include dried fruit). They’re enjoyed as sweet pastries with tea or coffee.

Cinna Bun Cake Recipe: 7 Easy Steps for Bakery-Style Comfort

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Cinna Bun Cake Recipe brings together everything I love about cinnamon rolls—soft, buttery cake, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and finished with a creamy glaze. My Greek roots and years in the USA inspired me to blend the cozy flavors of classic American baking with the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.

Every time I make this Cinna Bun Cake Recipe, I think of lazy weekend mornings, family gathered in the kitchen, and the scent of cinnamon filling the house. It’s always a hit for brunch, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself to something sweet and nostalgic.

Why You Will Love This Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

What Makes This Dish So Satisfying

Swirls of gooey cinnamon sugar in every slice
Soft, buttery crumb with bakery-style richness
Creamy glaze that melts into warm cake
Ready in less time than traditional cinnamon rolls
Perfect balance of sweet and spice

Why It’s a Favorite in My Kitchen

No yeast or rising time—just mix, swirl, and bake
Always a hit for brunch or holiday mornings
Easy to slice and share with family or friends
Customizable with nuts or extra cinnamon
The aroma brings everyone running to the kitchen

Ingredients for Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Ingredients for cinna-bun cake: eggs, flour, sugar, butter, milk, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla, arranged in bowls on a kitchen counter. — Ingredients for cinna-bun cake—eggs, flour, sugar, butter, milk, cinnamon, and more.

2 cups all-purpose flour
For soft crumb; sift before using for best texture.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sweetens the cake; can use light brown sugar for extra warmth.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Adds richness; use real butter for classic flavor.
1 cup milk
Whole milk gives a tender cake, but any milk works.
2 large eggs
Room temperature helps batter blend smoothly.
1 tablespoon baking powder
Ensures a fluffy rise—check freshness before using.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Brings warmth and rounds out flavors.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

3/4 cup brown sugar
Use light or dark for deeper flavor.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For that bakery-style cinnamon burst.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Swirls beautifully through the batter.

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
Sift for a smooth, pourable glaze.
2–3 tablespoons milk
Adjust for desired glaze consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds flavor and a touch of warmth.

How to Choose the Best Ingredients for Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Fresh, Simple Ingredients Make It Shine

Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for bold flavor.
Choose real butter for the richest, classic taste.
Opt for whole milk for a tender, moist crumb.
Sift flour for a lighter cake texture.
Make sure baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
Always use real vanilla extract, not imitation.
Brown sugar should be soft and aromatic.

Smart Swaps and Tips

Substitute plant-based butter and milk for dairy-free needs.
Try a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts in the swirl.
Use half whole-wheat flour for a heartier cake.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to deepen the spice flavor.
For extra gooeyness, swirl a bit more melted butter on top.
Use a parchment-lined pan for easy removal and cleanup.

How to Make Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Step-by-step preparation of cinna-bun cake: whisking batter, swirling cinnamon filling, baking in the oven, and drizzling icing on top. — Cinna-bun cake preparation—mix batter, swirl cinnamon filling, bake, and finish with icing.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until just blended.
Pour batter into pan and smooth the top.
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the swirl.
Drop spoonfuls of cinnamon mixture over batter; swirl gently with a knife.
Bake 28–32 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
Cool slightly, then drizzle with glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

How I Love to Serve It

Warm from the oven, with glaze dripping over each slice
Paired with strong coffee or spiced chai for breakfast
Cut into squares for a family brunch spread
With fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness
On a pretty platter for holiday mornings or weekend treats

Great for potlucks, bake sales, or office gatherings
Perfect for gifting—wrap slices in parchment and ribbon
Lovely centerpiece for a holiday breakfast table
Ideal for bringing comfort to friends or neighbors
Always a hit at sleepovers or cozy get-togethers

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Common Prep Mistakes

Don’t overmix the batter; it can make the cake dense.
Avoid using cold eggs or milk—they mix better at room temperature.
Don’t skip greasing or lining the pan; cake may stick.
Avoid swirling too much, or the cinnamon layer disappears.

Flavor and Texture Mistakes

Don’t use old or stale cinnamon—it dulls the flavor.
Avoid skimping on butter; it’s key for richness.
Don’t overbake; cake should stay soft and moist.
Avoid adding too much flour, which can dry out the crumb.

How to Store Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Refrigerating Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Warm slices briefly in the microwave for the best texture.
Keep glaze separate if you want a less sticky top.
Refrigeration helps keep the cake moist and fresh.

Freezing Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Freeze cooled, unglazed cake in slices for up to 2 months.
Wrap slices tightly in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw at room temperature, then glaze before serving.
Best enjoyed fresh, but freezing works for make-ahead treats.

Health Benefits of Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Made with simple, recognizable pantry ingredients.
Cinnamon offers antioxidants and helps balance blood sugar.
Portion control is easy—just slice as needed.
Can be made with part whole-wheat flour for extra fiber.
Lower in fat than traditional cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting.
Homemade means no artificial preservatives or fillers.
Enjoyed in moderation, brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

Cakes with a Twist

Love the comforting swirl of cinnamon in this cake? Discover more wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired cakes to enjoy:

– 3-Ingredient Chocolate Cake: Fudgy, rich chocolate cake that’s quick and easy with just three ingredients.
– Almond Coffee Cake: Soft, nutty almond cake with a gentle coffee aroma—perfect for mornings.
– Apple Cocoa Cake: Cozy apple cake with a cocoa twist for natural sweetness and comfort.
– Cannoli Poke Cake: Light cake bursting with creamy ricotta and chocolate chips for a fun dessert.

Cinna Bun Cake Recipe

Cinna Bun Cake Recipe delivers the gooey, buttery, cinnamon-swirled joy of classic cinnamon rolls—easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for cozy mornings.

Equipment

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife or skewer (for swirling)

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
Sift for the softest cake.
1 cup granulated sugar
Or light brown sugar for a warmer flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
Classic richness—use real butter for best taste.
1 cup milk
Whole milk for tenderness or any milk you prefer.
2 large eggs
Room temperature for easier blending.
1 tablespoon baking powder
Fresh for fluffy rise.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Warmth and aroma.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Balances the sweetness.
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
3/4 cup brown sugar
Deeper cinnamon roll flavor.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For classic bakery-style taste.
1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
Helps swirl through the batter.
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
Sift for a silky finish.
2 –3 tablespoons milk
Adjust for drizzling consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Classic flavor boost.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C); grease a 9×13-inch pan.
Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry; mix just until blended.
Pour batter into pan, smooth the top.
Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter for the swirl.
Drop spoonfuls over batter; gently swirl with a knife.
Bake 28–32 minutes, until golden and set.
Cool slightly. Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over cake before serving.

Notes

For extra richness, use half-and-half in the glaze.

Add nuts or raisins to the swirl if you like.

Keeps well at room temperature or in the fridge for a few days.

Freezes well, unglazed, in slices for quick treats.

Sweet, Swirled Comfort for Every Morning

Cinna Bun Cake Recipe is my go-to when I want all the warmth and nostalgia of cinnamon rolls with a bit less effort. The soft crumb, gooey cinnamon swirls, and creamy glaze always bring back memories of cozy kitchens and weekend breakfasts. I hope you find as much comfort and joy in every slice as my family does—whether you’re sharing for brunch or sneaking a sweet bite with your morning coffee.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between cinnamon bun and cinnamon roll?

Cinnamon buns are often baked with a sticky glaze or nuts on top, while cinnamon rolls are usually iced after baking.
Both are sweet, spiced pastries, but buns can be a bit denser and more caramelized.
2. Is a cinnamon bun a cake?

Traditionally, a cinnamon bun is a yeast-raised pastry, not a cake.
However, Cinna Bun Cake Recipe turns those classic flavors into an easy, sliceable cake version!
3. What is the origin of the cinnamon bun?

Cinnamon buns originated in Northern Europe, especially Sweden, where they’re called “kanelbulle.”
They became popular worldwide for their soft dough, sweet filling, and cozy spice.
4. What is cinnamon bun frosting made of?

Classic cinnamon bun frosting is usually made from powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract.
Some versions add cream cheese for a tangy, creamy touch.
5. What is the difference between a morning bun and a cinnamon roll?

Morning buns use croissant-like dough for a flakier, buttery texture and often have citrus zest in the filling.
Cinnamon rolls are made from a softer, bread-like dough with a simple cinnamon-sugar swirl.
6. What do British people call cinnamon rolls?

In the UK, cinnamon rolls are often called “cinnamon swirls” or “Chelsea buns” (which include dried fruit).
They’re enjoyed as sweet pastries with tea or coffee.

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