Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream is a gooey, pan-baked version of classic cinnamon rolls made with Rhodes Thaw, Rise and Bake cinnamon rolls and rich heavy whipping cream.
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Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 12 servings (1 roll each)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, tender pan-baked cinnamon roll cake soaked with rich heavy cream, creating custardy layers and bakery-quality results using pre-made rolls. Ideal for a decadent breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Rhodes Thaw, Rise and Bake Cinnamon Rolls (36-ounce bag), 12 rolls
Heavy whipping cream, 2/3 cup
Salted butter, melted, 6 tablespoons
Light brown sugar, 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon
Cream cheese frosting (included in cinnamon roll package), 1 packet
Instructions
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying with nonstick cooking spray
Arrange all 12 cinnamon rolls in the pan in an even layer
In a bowl, mix heavy cream, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined
Pour the cream mixture evenly over the rolls
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for 15-20 minutes at room temperature
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown
Let cool slightly before spreading included cream cheese frosting over the warm cake
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute 1/2 cup whole milk for the heavy cream
Use unsalted butter with 1/8 teaspoon added salt if preferred
Frosting can be omitted or replaced with whipped cream for a halal option
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of pan)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream
This recipe delivers warm, tender layers soaked with heavy cream that enhance the classic cinnamon roll experience.
I love how the heavy cream seeps into dough, creating custardy pockets and deeper flavor than a standard cinnamon roll provides.
The method uses Rhodes Thaw, Rise and Bake Cinnamon Rolls, which saves prep time while producing bakery-quality results every time.
Ingredients Needed for Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream
This ingredient list uses the exact products required to make a rich, crowd-pleasing Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes with alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Rhodes Thaw, Rise and Bake Cinnamon Rolls (36-ounce bag) | 12 rolls (one 36-oz bag) | Use the original cinnamon rolls included in the bag; frozen convenience saves time. |
| Heavy whipping cream | 2/3 cup | Use heavy cream for best custardy soak; whole milk gives a lighter, less rich result. |
| Salted butter, melted | 6 tablespoons | Melted butter helps carry the brown sugar and cinnamon; unsalted butter plus 1/8 teaspoon salt works fine. |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Light brown gives classic molasses notes; dark brown deepens the caramel flavor. |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground cinnamon is more aromatic; pumpkin pie spice adds complexity. |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure vanilla enhances sweetness; almond extract may be used sparingly for a different note. |
| Cream cheese frosting (included with cinnamon rolls) | One packet | Use the included frosting for convenience; homemade cream cheese frosting provides fresher tang. |
Step-by-Step Instructions Include
Follow these steps exactly to create a Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream that bakes evenly and tastes decadent.
| Step | Action | Timing and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare pan and arrange rolls | Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and arrange all 12 rolls in the pan. |
| 2 | Cover for rise | Cover pan with plastic wrap sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking while rising. |
| 3 | Thaw and rise | Choose your preferred thaw and rise method from the back of the Rhodes bag. Regular: 3–5 hours. Refrigerator: 8–16 hours overnight. |
| 4 | Preheat and cream pour | Once rolls double, preheat oven to 350°F. Pour heavy cream directly over rolls and allow to seep for about 5 minutes. |
| 5 | Make butter-sugar topping | In a medium bowl whisk melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Pour evenly over rolls and spread with an offset spatula. |
| 6 | Bake | Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until rolls are golden brown and a center roll registers set. |
| 7 | Cool and frost | Allow to cool about 10 minutes, then frost with the included cream cheese icing packet from Rhodes. |
Lina Tips for Perfect Results
Use these precise tips to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream bakes with even color and custardy texture.
- Spray the plastic wrap with nonstick cooking spray before covering the pan to avoid sticky torn dough during rise.
- Allow heavy cream to sit on the rolls for five minutes so it fully soaks and creates tender crumb pockets.
- Check for doneness at 30 minutes with a toothpick; if it comes out with wet dough, bake additional five minutes.
- Cool ten minutes before frosting to prevent the cream cheese icing from sliding off a piping-hot surface.
- For uniform browning rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
Variations and Substitutions
These substitutions let you adapt the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream to dietary needs or flavor preferences.
| Ingredient | Substitution | Impact on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | Half-and-half or whole milk | Produces a lighter soak and milder richness; not as custardy or decadent. |
| Salted butter | Unsalted butter plus 1/8 tsp salt | Allows tighter salt control; flavor remains buttery and balanced. |
| Light brown sugar | Dark brown sugar or coconut sugar | Dark brown adds deeper molasses notes; coconut sugar gives caramel tones with less sweetness. |
| Cream cheese frosting packet | Homemade cream cheese frosting | Fresh tang and control over sweetness improves overall brightness and texture. |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream warm and slightly gooey for the best possible experience.
Pair slices with shielded coffee drinks, cold brew, or spiced chai to enhance the cinnamon and vanilla notes.
- Brunch gatherings: serve alongside scrambled egg casserole and roasted breakfast potatoes.
- Holiday mornings: present with mixed berry compote and whipped cream for festive flair.
- Casual weekends: offer with plain Greek yogurt and honey for balanced sweetness.
Try pairing with these internal recipes for complementary brunch items: Ultimate Creamy Chicken Salad, Easy Mediterranean Fish, and Buttery Chicken Salad Spread.
Storage and Reheating
Store and reheat correctly to preserve the texture and moisture of your Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream.
| Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature | Up to 24 hours | Cover loosely with foil to prevent the frosting from drying and keep texture tender. |
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Store in an airtight container; bring to room temperature before reheating to avoid sogginess. |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before warming gently in oven. |
| Reheating | 5–10 minutes | Warm single slices in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave 20–30 seconds for quick warmth. |
Frequently Asked Questions
These concise answers address common concerns and technical points about the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream.
Can I substitute heavy cream in Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soak and reduced richness.
Expect less custardy texture and a milder mouthfeel when using these substitutions, while the rolls will still be moist and flavorful.
How do I know when the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream is done baking?
Bake until the rolls are golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean with no raw dough.
Additionally, the top should be set and the center roll should spring back slightly when touched to indicate thorough baking.
Why did my Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream have a soggy bottom and how to fix it?
A soggy bottom often results from too much liquid pooling or underbaking at the center; remedy by baking an additional five minutes uncovered.
Use a metal pan instead of glass to conduct heat more efficiently and reduce the chance of undercooked centers and excess sogginess.
Can I make the Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream ahead of time with Rhodes rolls?
Yes, you can assemble, cover, and refrigerate the pan overnight following the Rhodes refrigerator thaw and rise instructions for 8–16 hours.
Remove plastic wrap, let sit at room temperature for twenty minutes before pouring cream and baking to ensure even oven rise and color.
What is the best way to serve Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream for brunch guests?
Serve warm, slightly cooled for ten minutes, then swirl the included cream cheese frosting across the slices for shine and creaminess.
Offer coffee, spiced tea, and fresh fruit to balance the rich sweetness and present a complete brunch plate that guests will enjoy.
More Dessert Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy warm cinnamon desserts and cozy homemade treats, these delicious dessert recipes from my kitchen are perfect additions to your baking list. Each recipe delivers creamy texture, rich flavor, and comforting sweetness for holidays, brunches, and everyday baking moments.
Try this creamy and refreshing No-Bake Cottage Cheese Cheesecake, perfect for an easy chilled dessert with smooth texture and rich flavor. Brighten your dessert table with this soft and citrusy Lemon Cottage Cheese Cake, packed with fresh lemon flavor and tender crumb. Enjoy a rich homemade favorite using this Cottage Cheese Cheesecake Recipe, featuring creamy texture and classic cheesecake flavor. Cool down with this fruity and creamy Berries Cottage Cheese Ice Cream, loaded with fresh berry flavor and smooth texture. Chocolate lovers will enjoy this silky Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse, combining rich chocolate flavor with airy, creamy consistency. Serve this sweet and creamy Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip Recipe at parties, holidays, or cozy family gatherings for an easy crowd-pleasing dessert.Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Cake with Heavy Cream transforms frozen Rhodes rolls into a showstopping, custardy breakfast centerpiece that guests will remember.
Try this recipe for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or any time you want warm cinnamon, buttery caramel, and creamy frosting in every bite.
For more recipes and tips, check these helpful resources: USDA and King Arthur Baking.
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Signature flavor: warm cinnamon and vanilla-infused cream lift every bite to comforting, unforgettable heights.