Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is the perfect combination of your two favorite breakfast treats: the gooey comfort of cinnamon rolls and the soft, tender crumb of coffee cake. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey into the heart of this cozy creation—why it matters, how to make it flawlessly, and tips to bring bakery-level taste right into your home. If you’re a lover of cinnamon-spiced goodness, get ready to meet your new morning favorite.

A Sweet Morning Memory with Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake
Where the Love for Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Began
I still remember waking up on chilly Sunday mornings to the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar drifting through my childhood home. My mom had a habit of turning even the simplest days into something special, and nothing said “comfort” quite like her cinnamon-swirled bakes. Years later, when I began experimenting with recipes in Paula’s Kitchen, I set out to recreate that nostalgic magic. That’s how this Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake recipe was born—my take on a classic that marries the best of both worlds.
With its buttery crumb and rich cinnamon swirl, Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake isn’t just food—it’s a feeling. It turns your average morning into a celebration, just like my mom’s Sunday breakfasts used to do. If you’ve ever loved biting into a warm cinnamon roll or enjoyed a slice of cake with your coffee, this recipe brings you the best of both in every bite.
This recipe also complements other warm-spiced desserts like the Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle or even the unique twist of Peach Pie Cruffins. They all celebrate the joy of home baking in different ways.
PrintCinnamon Roll Coffee Cake: The Best Sweet Morning Treat
Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake is a soft, buttery cake swirled with cinnamon sugar, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring until combined.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over it.
- Add the remaining batter and top with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Use a knife to swirl the batter gently to create a cinnamon roll effect.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add nuts, raisins, or glaze for extra flavor.
- Do not over-swirl to maintain defined cinnamon layers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
What Makes This Coffee Cake So Special?
What sets Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake apart is its balance—rich without being heavy, sweet without overwhelming. Instead of frosting, you get a luscious cinnamon ripple in every bite, finished with a creamy glaze that soaks into the top.
Plus, it’s perfect for brunch tables or cozy evenings with tea. And let’s not forget—it’s a dream pairing with that first hot cup of coffee.
If you’re a fan of cozy bakes like Blueberry Cake Donuts or a decadent Berry French Toast Casserole, you’ll fall in love with this instantly.
Baking the Perfect Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list is simple but effective—each one adds to the magic. Here’s what you’ll need for the ultimate Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Provides the cake structure |
| Granulated sugar | Sweetens the batter |
| Cinnamon | Creates that signature swirl |
| Sour cream | Adds moisture and tang |
| Eggs | Bind everything together |
For fans of bold breakfast flavors, this pairs beautifully with something like Breakfast Butter Swim Biscuits or Blueberry Protein Muffins.
The Secret to a Swirl That Pops
The cinnamon swirl is where the magic happens. To make it unforgettable:
- Use melted butter and dark brown sugar for richness.
- Don’t overmix once added—swirls should look distinct.
- Drop spoonfuls of cinnamon mixture and gently swirl with a knife.
That way, every slice looks as good as it tastes.
Tips, Variations & Troubleshooting
Make It Your Own: Creative Variations
You can always get creative with your Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake. Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy bite. Craving fruit? Swirl in diced apples or even a spoonful of jam.
For a bolder twist, try flavoring the glaze with maple syrup or orange zest. It’s a great way to bring seasonal flair to your table.
Want something equally sweet with a playful touch? Try Fried Ice Cream with Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Bowls or Buttery Pecan Snowball Cookies.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these slip-ups to get that perfect cake texture every time:
- Overmixing the batter leads to a dense, tough cake.
- Opening the oven too early can cause the cake to sink.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients means uneven mixing.
Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
If you enjoy cinnamon-filled bakes, Apple Pie Taquitos also offer that signature flavor in a whole new way.
Serving, Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake
This Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake shines warm or at room temp. Drizzle it with glaze just before serving for that café-style finish. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
You could even serve it alongside a batch of Easy Bunuelos or rich Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars for a crowd-pleasing dessert platter.
Storing & Freezing Made Easy
Store your cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Want to freeze it? Wrap slices individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm briefly before serving.
Want even more ideas for sweet make-ahead treats? Easy Homemade Churros or Creamy Jalapeño Dip are great party pairings.

Serving Up the Final Words
There’s something so comforting and timeless about the smell of cinnamon drifting from the oven, especially when it leads to a moist, buttery Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake on your plate. Whether you’re baking for your family or just want a little joy with your morning coffee, this recipe never fails to deliver. I hope it brings you the same warmth it brings me every time I pull it from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake different from regular coffee cake?
Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake has a gooey cinnamon sugar swirl and often a glaze, whereas traditional coffee cake uses a crumb topping instead.
Can I make this coffee cake ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors settle. Store it covered at room temp or in the fridge.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw and warm before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
A quick 15–20 seconds in the microwave will restore the soft, warm texture you want.
