Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but are looking for a quicker, fuss-free treat, this Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake is your new go-to dessert. Imagine the gooey cinnamon swirl combined with melty chocolate chips, all baked into a soft, moist cake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack. It’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and brings the cozy vibes of cinnamon rolls without hours of rolling and rising dough. Ready to dive into this sweet, chocolatey, cinnamon-spiced cake? Let’s get baking!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake hits all the right notes — it’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. What makes it special is how it captures the essence of a cinnamon roll but with the ease of a quick-bake cake. The cinnamon and brown sugar swirl creates pockets of rich, caramelized goodness, while the semi-sweet chocolate chips add just the right touch of indulgence. Plus, there’s an optional sprinkle of cooked, crumbled turkey bacon that adds a surprising savory crunch for those who want to experiment with a sweet-and-salty combo. This recipe is versatile and forgiving, making it a fantastic choice for both baking beginners and seasoned pros who want a quick cinnamon roll fix without the fuss.

Your Shopping Guide

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and tenderness.
• Granulated sugar: For sweetness and a light texture.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for richness and a tender crumb.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients and add structure.
• Vanilla extract: For that warm, sweet aroma.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds melty pockets of chocolate throughout the cake.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives the cake its signature flavor.
• Brown sugar: Mixed with cinnamon to create the luscious swirl.
• Turkey bacon (optional): Cooked and crumbled for a smoky, savory contrast.
• Powdered sugar: For the simple glaze that finishes the cake.
• Milk (for icing): To thin the powdered sugar into a smooth glaze.

Must-Have Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size for this cake and ensures even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients make mixing easy.
• Whisk and spatula: For combining ingredients smoothly without overmixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key for great results.
• Electric mixer (optional): Speeds up mixing but a whisk works just fine.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup milk, ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Create the batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk just until combined — don’t overmix to keep the cake tender.

Step 5: Add chocolate chips

Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon with ½ cup brown sugar. This will create the signature cinnamon roll flavor in the cake.

Step 7: Layer and swirl

Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter, creating beautiful cinnamon roll swirls.

Step 8: Add turkey bacon (optional)

If you want that sweet and savory kick, sprinkle ¼ cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon evenly over the top.

Step 9: Bake

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Make the glaze

While the cake cools slightly, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.

Step 11: Cool and serve

Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before cutting. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Gluten-free flour blend: Swap for all-purpose flour to make this cake gluten-free.
• Plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat): Use instead of regular milk for dairy-free options.
• Coconut oil or dairy-free butter: Replace melted butter for a dairy-free version.
• Flax or chia eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water per egg for an egg substitute.
• Dairy-free chocolate chips: Use vegan chocolate chips to keep it dairy-free.

Steer Clear of These

• Don’t overmix the batter; it makes the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Avoid skipping the cinnamon swirl — it’s the heart of this recipe’s flavor.
• Be cautious with the optional turkey bacon: make sure it’s fully cooked and crumbly to avoid sogginess.
• Do not use salted butter; unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness better.
• Skip any artificial flavorings — pure vanilla extract adds the best aroma and taste.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead treat. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely. Cut into individual slices and wrap each slice tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm gently in the microwave or oven before serving to bring back that fresh-baked feel. You can drizzle the glaze fresh after reheating for the best presentation.

FAQ

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips add a richer, slightly more bitter contrast that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon and brown sugar beautifully. Feel free to swap in whichever chocolate you prefer.

Is it necessary to swirl the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture?

Yes, swirling creates those signature cinnamon roll pockets of flavor throughout the cake. If you skip this step, the cake will still be tasty but won’t have that distinctive cinnamon roll look and taste.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the batter and swirl it in the pan the night before, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next morning for a quick and impressive breakfast or dessert.

What’s the best way to store leftover cake?

Store leftover Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing individual slices is recommended. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the cake.

Try These Next

• Classic Cinnamon Rolls – For those who want the real deal with homemade dough.
• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless chocolate chip treat.
• One-Bowl Oatmeal Cookies – A wholesome, chewy cookie option.
• Moist Banana Bread – Another quick, flavorful breakfast cake.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake warm, fresh from the oven with a drizzle of vanilla glaze. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk for a comforting treat. For an extra indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Whether it’s a weekend brunch centerpiece or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake brings all the joy and flavor of cinnamon rolls in a delightfully simple form. Slice, savor, and share—because good food is meant to be enjoyed together!

This Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll Cake is a wonderful way to bring sweet, buttery cinnamon roll flavors into a quick, approachable cake. Its tender crumb, melty chocolate chips, and warm cinnamon swirls make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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