Cinnamon Roll King Cake: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today

August 29, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the cinnamon roll king cake! This delightful fusion takes the best of both worlds and wraps them into one deliciously festive treat. Picture warm, gooey cinnamon rolls mingling with the fun and flair of a traditional king cake. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or even a cozy brunch, this cake will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming of this sweet masterpiece long after the last bite. Let’s dive in and create some magic in the kitchen!

cinnamon roll king cake - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious cinnamon roll king cake. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start, so you’re all set for some fun baking!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm milk (make sure it’s warm, not hot, to activate the yeast)
1/4 cup melted butter (let it cool slightly before adding)
1 egg (large, at room temperature)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed for that extra richness)
1/2 cup cream cheese (softened for easy spreading)
1 cup powdered sugar (for the icing)
2 tablespoons milk (for thinning the icing)
Colored sugar for decoration (to give it that festive flair!)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, we’re one step closer to creating this beauty! Let’s get mixing!

How to Prepare the Cinnamon Roll King Cake Instructions

Alright, let’s get our hands a little floury and dive into the delightful process of making this cinnamon roll king cake! I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and the results are absolutely worth it. Ready? Here we go!

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 packet of instant yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
Next, add in the 1/2 cup of warm milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter (make sure it’s not too hot!), and 1 egg. Mix it all together until a soft dough starts to form. It should come together nicely!
Now, it’s time to knead! Flour your surface and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you go.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This is the magical part where the yeast works its wonders!
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
Now, carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log. Once rolled, shape it into a ring and pinch the ends together to seal. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover the ring with a towel again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This will give it that fluffy texture we all love!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, bake it for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top.
While it’s baking, mix the 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk to make your icing. Adjust the milk until you get the perfect drizzle consistency.
Once baked, let the cake cool slightly before drizzling with icing and sprinkling colored sugar on top to make it festive!

And there you have it! Follow these steps, and before you know it, you’ll have a stunning cinnamon roll king cake that’s sure to wow your family and friends!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat a bit about the nutritional side of our delicious cinnamon roll king cake! It’s always good to know what we’re indulging in, right? Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so they might vary a bit depending on specific ingredients used. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 4g

This sweet treat is definitely a delightful indulgence, so enjoy it in moderation, especially during those special celebrations! Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this cinnamon roll king cake! It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the whole experience of making and sharing it. Here are some highlights that make this recipe a must-try:

Easy Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginners can dive right in and create this masterpiece!
Flavor Explosion: The combination of gooey cinnamon rolls and the festive flair of king cake is utterly irresistible—and oh, the smell that fills your kitchen while it bakes!
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s Mardi Gras, a birthday, or just a family gathering, this cake brings a touch of festivity and joy to any occasion.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the fillings or toppings to suit your taste, making it special for each event.
Impressive Presentation: Shaped like a crown and topped with colorful sugars, this cake is sure to wow your guests and make for beautiful Instagram moments!
Leftovers (if you have any!): It keeps well, so you can enjoy this sweet treat for days, making your mornings a little brighter.

Trust me, once you make this cinnamon roll king cake, it’ll become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to share with everyone!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect cinnamon roll king cake is all about a few key tips and tricks that can elevate your baking game! Trust me, I’ve learned a thing or two from my own kitchen experiments (and maybe a few mishaps!). Here’s what you need to keep in mind to ensure your cake turns out fabulously every time:

Don’t Rush the Rise: Patience is key! Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture we all crave. If your kitchen is a bit chilly, try placing the bowl in a warmer area, or even in the oven (turned off, of course) with the light on for a cozy environment.
Check Your Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh! If it’s expired, your dough won’t rise as it should. A quick test? Mix it with warm water and a pinch of sugar; if it bubbles after a few minutes, you’re good to go!
Keep It Soft: When kneading, if the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour on your work surface, but be careful not to add too much. You want a soft, pliable dough, not a tough one!
Spread Evenly: When spreading the cream cheese mixture, make sure to cover the dough evenly to avoid any dry bites. Every slice should have that creamy, sweet goodness!
Shape with Care: When rolling the dough into a log, be gentle but firm. A tight roll helps keep the filling in place and allows for those beautiful swirls when you cut into the cake!
Don’t Skip the Icing: The icing is what ties it all together, so drizzle generously! If you want a thicker icing, just reduce the amount of milk, or for something more drizzly, add a splash more. Experiment until you find your perfect consistency.
Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your colored sugars or even add sprinkles for an extra pop! You can also try incorporating nuts, chocolate chips, or even a fruit filling inside for a twist.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can even pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up for a delightful treat!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of the cinnamon roll king cake! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations on the Cinnamon Roll King Cake

One of the best things about this cinnamon roll king cake is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your mood, the occasion, or even the season. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch. Just sprinkle them over the cream cheese layer before rolling!
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist. You can even drizzle melted chocolate over the icing for extra indulgence!
Fruity Fusion: Try adding a layer of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries between the cream cheese and the cinnamon sugar. It’ll add a refreshing burst of flavor!
Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices! Instead of just cinnamon, add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom to the filling for a warm, aromatic touch.
Maple Magic: Substitute the granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique flavor profile. You can also use maple syrup in the icing for that sweet, maple goodness!
Seasonal Switch: Celebrate the holidays by adding pumpkin puree and spices in the fall, or peppermint extract in the winter. The possibilities are endless!
Cheesecake Surprise: Mix some lemon zest into the cream cheese filling for a tangy cheesecake twist, or even swirl in some fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect cinnamon roll king cake. Each variation brings its own charm and flavor, making every bake a new adventure! So, roll up your sleeves and let your imagination run wild!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your cinnamon roll king cake is ready to wow everyone, let’s talk about some fantastic serving suggestions that can take your meal experience to the next level! This cake is not just a treat on its own; it pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its deliciousness.

Fresh Fruit: Serve slices alongside fresh seasonal fruits, like berries, sliced bananas, or even a citrus salad. The brightness of the fruit complements the richness of the cake beautifully!
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea is the perfect beverage to enjoy with your cinnamon roll king cake. The comforting flavors of cinnamon and cream cheese go hand in hand with a cozy drink!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light, airy touch. You can even sweeten it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a splash of vanilla for extra flavor!
Ice Cream: For an indulgent twist, serve a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream alongside a warm slice of cake. The melting ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm cake!
Maple Syrup: Drizzle some warm maple syrup over the top for an extra layer of sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the cinnamon flavors and adds a lovely gloss!
Yogurt Parfait: Create a breakfast or brunch spread by serving the cake with yogurt and granola. Layer them up for a fun parfait that balances sweetness with creaminess!
Nut Butter: A spread of almond or peanut butter adds a nutty richness that complements the sweet cake. It’s also a fun protein boost if you’re serving it for breakfast!

With these serving suggestions, your cinnamon roll king cake will shine even brighter at the table. So gather your loved ones, pour some drinks, and enjoy this incredible treat together!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious cinnamon roll king cake fresh for as long as possible! If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), proper storage is key to maintaining its fluffy goodness.

First, once your cake has completely cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out and keeps it soft and moist. If you don’t have a container, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, but make sure it’s sealed well!

You can store your cinnamon roll king cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge, where it should stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before digging in for the best flavor!

Now, if you want to enjoy a slice warm and gooey again, reheating is super easy! Just pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot—nobody wants a molten cinnamon roll king cake disaster! If you prefer, you can also warm it up in an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the slice in aluminum foil, and heat for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain that lovely texture.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your cinnamon roll king cake well beyond the first serving, bringing a little sweetness back into your day whenever you need it! Enjoy every last bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.