Name: Roll-mance Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons butter (melted, for swirl); 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup unsalted butter (for frosting); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Imagine if a cinnamon roll and a poke cake fell in love—the result would be this dreamy, ultra-soft Roll-mance Cake. With fluffy vanilla cake as the base, rich cinnamon-sugar swirls running through every bite, and a creamy frosting crown that melts in your mouth, this dessert delivers all the joy of a cinnamon roll with none of the kneading. Perfect for brunches, birthdays, or cozy weekends in, this cake is a hug on a plate.

Every forkful offers warm notes of cinnamon paired with sweet vanilla, perfectly balanced by the tang of cream cheese frosting. The magic happens when you “poke” the cake and let buttery cinnamon sauce soak through the tender crumb. It’s comforting, it’s indulgent, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.

What Makes This Cake So Irresistible?

This cake shines because of the layered textures and flavors. It starts with a soft, moist vanilla base that soaks up a brown sugar-cinnamon butter sauce. Once cooled, it’s slathered in a tangy cream cheese frosting that ties everything together. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, this recipe skips the yeast and long rise time, giving you all the flavor with half the effort.

Ingredients for the Roll-mance Cake

All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure to the cake.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping with moisture retention.
Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and helps the cake stay moist.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
Butter: Used in both the cake and cinnamon filling for richness and flavor.
Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Brown sugar: The heart of the cinnamon swirl, bringing molasses-like warmth.
Ground cinnamon: The spice star of this show.
Cream cheese: Base of the luscious frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and softens the frosting for a silky finish.

How To Make the Roll-mance Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla. Alternate adding flour and buttermilk until the batter is smooth.

Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Pour half the cake batter into a greased 9×13 pan, then swirl in half the cinnamon mixture. Add remaining batter and top with the rest of the swirl.

Step 3: Bake and Poke

Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. While warm, poke holes all over the cake with the handle of a wooden spoon. Pour additional melted cinnamon butter mixture over the top and let it soak in.

Step 4: Frost to Finish

Once fully cooled, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Spread evenly over the cake. Chill slightly before slicing if desired.

How to Serve and Store Roll-mance Cake

Serve warm for maximum gooeyness or chilled for a firmer bite—it’s delicious either way. If making ahead, the cake stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly or use an airtight container. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

What to Serve With Roll-mance Cake?

Classic Hot Coffee

A robust dark roast contrasts beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.

Spiced Chai Latte

A creamy chai enhances the cinnamon notes even more.

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream

Top with vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Bacon or Sausage Links

Add a savory bite to balance the sweetness.

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries or strawberries adds brightness and a fresh pop.

Maple Glazed Pecans

For a crunchy topper or side snack.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

A final touch if you want to make it a showstopper dessert.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Cinnamon Twist?

If this Roll-mance Cake swept you off your feet, you’ll want to try these too:

Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake for a decadent layered dessert.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites that double as brunch and dessert.
Lusciously Soft Lemon Rolls if you’re curious about citrus meeting swirl.
Nutella French Toast Casserole for a chocolate-hazelnut breakfast delight.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Poke Cake for fans of layered richness.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra bold with the cinnamon? Try a maple cream cheese twist?

I love hearing how others personalize these sweet creations. And if you’re looking for more daily dessert inspiration, follow along on Pinterest for fresh recipes and flavor-packed ideas.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Roll-mance Cake

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a sweet twist on a classic comfort treat? This Roll-mance Cake blends everything you love about cinnamon rolls into a soft, moist poke cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s warm, fluffy, cinnamon-swirled, and soaked in buttery brown sugar filling—making it a go-to for cozy weekend baking, brunch spreads, or easy dessert ideas. Whether you’re exploring new breakfast ideas, planning a birthday surprise, or need a quick treat for a dinner gathering, this easy recipe hits the spot. A heartwarming blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and creamy richness in every bite.