Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for all things warm, cinnamony, and downright indulgent, this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe will absolutely charm its way into your heart and your dessert rotation. Imagine the mouthwatering swirl of cinnamon rolls baked beneath a sweet, buttery cinnamon cake topping, all crowned with a drizzle of gooey frosting and a satisfying crunch from pecans. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgic flavors and effortless preparation, making it a go-to treat for busy days or a showstopping dessert with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward blissful Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe success. Each component plays its role perfectly, from the soft cinnamon roll dough providing a tender base, to the buttery richness, sweet cake topping, and nutty crunch that rounds it all off.

• 2 (12.4-oz) cans cinnamon rolls: The heart of the dish, delivering that iconic softness and cinnamon kick.
• 1 (12-oz) container whipped cream cheese: Adds creamy tang and luscious pockets of flavor throughout.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Brings an irresistible crunch and subtle nutty sweetness.
• 1 (21-oz) box cinnamon swirl cake mix: Creates a sweet, cinnamony topping with a beautiful golden finish.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced: Ensures the cake comes out perfectly moist with a rich, buttery taste.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch cake pan with cooking spray to keep your cake from sticking and make cleanup easier. This little prep goes a long way toward a smooth baking experience!

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Open your cans of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll carefully. Don’t toss out the frosting; you’ll use this as a luscious finishing drizzle. Cut each roll into four pieces to help them bake evenly and create a lovely layered texture.

Step 3: Layer the Cinnamon Roll Dough

Spread the cut cinnamon roll pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms the fluffy, cinnamony foundation of the cake, so be sure to cover the whole surface for that perfect base.

Step 4: Add Dollops of Whipped Cream Cheese

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, gently place dollops of the whipped cream cheese on top of the cinnamon roll pieces. These creamy pockets will melt into little bursts of tangy goodness during baking, making each bite extra special.

Step 5: Sprinkle Chopped Pecans

Scatter the chopped pecans evenly over the cream cheese layer. Not only do the nuts add a delightful crunch, but they also bring a warm, nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Step 6: Sprinkle the Cake Mix

Take the cinnamon swirl cake mix from the box and evenly sprinkle it over the entire pan, covering the pecans and cream cheese. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture that comes inside the cake mix box on top of the cake mix for an extra cinnamon boost and a touch of texture.

Step 7: Arrange Butter Slices

Distribute the thin slices of unsalted butter evenly across the top of the cinnamon cake mix. This step is crucial for creating a golden, moist topping with a heavenly buttery richness that carries the flavor to the next level.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and the bubbling edges hint at the deliciousness inside.

Step 9: Drizzle with Frosting

When the cake is out of the oven, warm the reserved frosting cans in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and drizzle-able. Then, lovingly pour the frosting over the warm cake. This finishing touch melts slightly, adding sweetness and that signature cinnamon roll glaze.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your serving, sprinkle a little extra chopped pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar on top. For an indulgent twist, add a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream. These simple garnishes add texture and balance out the rich sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, making it an ideal breakfast treat or afternoon pick-me-up. For dessert, consider side servings of fresh berries or a light fruit compote to cut through the richness and refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, perfect for gatherings or special occasions. You could also layer it with whipped cream and cinnamon-spiced apples in a trifle dish for a stunning presentation that impresses visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate to extend freshness for up to a week. The flavors meld even better after a day or two, so leftovers are truly a treat.

Freezing

If you want to keep this cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will maintain quality for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy that fresh-baked goodness any time.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Adding a small pat of butter on top before reheating can help revive the moistness and richness of the cake.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?

Absolutely! While canned cinnamon rolls make this recipe incredibly quick and easy, homemade cinnamon rolls add a wonderful personal touch and depth of flavor. Just be sure to cut them evenly and adjust baking time as needed.

Is it necessary to use the butter sliced thinly?

Thin slices of butter melt more evenly and help create that golden crust on top. Bigger chunks might leave uneven spots, so slicing thinly is key for consistent flavor and texture.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes, feel free to swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even skip nuts if you prefer. Each nut will add its own unique crunch and flavor, so choose what you enjoy most or have on hand.

What if I don’t have whipped cream cheese?

You can use regular cream cheese that’s softened, just mix it until smooth before dolloping. The texture will still be creamy and delicious, adding that essential richness to the cake.

How long does the Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe last once baked?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay tasty for up to 5 days if refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day!

Final Thoughts

There really is something magical about this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe that brings a cozy warmth and irresistible sweetness to your kitchen with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, impressing last-minute guests, or simply treating yourself on any ordinary day. Give it a try, because once you do, this easy, soul-satisfying dessert will become one of your most beloved go-to recipes.

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