Description
A dense, moist, and gooey cake that tastes like a high-end bakery cinnamon roll but is made with simple pantry staples. This easy dump-and-stir dessert is perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box yellow or vanilla cake mix
- 1 package instant cinnamon or vanilla pudding mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup milk (or water)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (for glaze)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake mix and instant pudding mix until combined.
- Add eggs, vegetable oil, and milk to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake bakes, melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the top.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter once wet ingredients are added to keep the cake tender. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature. The cake is best served warm to allow the glaze to soak in slightly. Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 38
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
Keywords: cinnabon cake, copycat recipe, easy dessert, pantry staples, cinnamon roll cake, dump cake, budget friendly dessert