Irresistible Oven-Baked Cinna-Bun Cake

Directions

Preparing the Cake Base:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9 x 13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 4 teaspoons of baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of milk, crack in 2 eggs, and add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Incorporate Melted Butter: Slowly add 1/2 cup of melted butter into the batter, stirring continuously until the butter is fully integrated and the batter is smooth.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Creating the Topping:

6. Combine Topping Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive mixture.
7. Add Topping to Cake: Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the cake batter. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the topping into the base to create a marbled effect. This ensures every bite has a delightful mix of cake and cinnamon topping.

Baking:

8. Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 28-30 minutes. The cake is done when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Preparing the Glaze:

9. Mix Glaze Ingredients: While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar, 5 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and pourable.

Finishing Touches:

10. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven and still warm, generously drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to seep into the cake, filling all the nooks and crannies.
11. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness of your homemade Cinna-Bun Cake.

Conclusion

This Cinna-Bun Cake is the perfect fusion of a classic cinnamon roll and a fluffy cake, making it an irresistible treat for any dessert lover. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures will make it a favorite in your recipe collection. Each bite offers the tender crumb of a well-baked cake intertwined with the sweet, spicy warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar, reminiscent of a freshly baked cinnamon roll straight from the oven. The buttery richness of the topping, combined with the smooth, sweet glaze, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Whether you serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to impress with its rich cinnamon aroma and delectable taste. Imagine starting your day with a warm slice of this cake, paired perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, providing a comforting and indulgent beginning to your morning. As a brunch centerpiece, it will captivate your guests, making every gathering special with its homemade charm and irresistible flavor. For dessert, it stands out as a unique and delightful option that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones.