Fluffy cake rolled with cinnamon and nutmeg, layered with eggnog frosting, and drizzled with a sweet glaze. A holiday dream come true!

I’m not gonna lie—this Cinnamon Cake Roll Recipe brings back memories of my grandma’s kitchen every single time I make it. You know the one, right? Where you walk in and instantly get hit with the scent of cinnamon and butter and somehow your entire soul feels warmer. That’s this cake. It’s simple, it’s sweet, and every bite feels like a hug from someone you haven’t seen in too long.

The first time I tried a cake roll, I was terrified. (You too?) I’d heard horror stories of cracked rolls and filling squishing out like toothpaste—gross, right? But here’s the thing: it’s way easier than it looks. And honestly? Even if it’s a little wonky, nobody cares. They’ll be too busy devouring it.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Cake Roll Recipe?

There are a lot of things I should be baking during the holidays, but this recipe is the one I want to bake. Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot on my table:

It’s foolproof (mostly). I mean, unless you forget it’s in the oven while you’re on TikTok… but we’ve all been there.
Cinnamon, cinnamon, cinnamon. There’s so much cozy flavor packed into every bite.
That frosting? Oh, it’s extra. Creamy, sweet, and spiked with eggnog. Not an eggnog person? I see you—hang tight.
People are impressed. I don’t tell them how easy it was. Let’s keep that between us, okay?
It looks way fancier than it is. Trust me on this.

Ingredient Notes:

Listen, I hate realizing halfway through a recipe that I’m out of something important. Let’s avoid that. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Cinnamon Cake Roll Recipe, and a few swaps in case you’re short on time (or energy).

For the Cake:

Eggs (3): Room temp. They whip up better that way—science!
Sugar (¾ cup): Plain old granulated.
Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): Keeps the cake moist.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): The kind you don’t hide in the back of the cabinet.
Flour (¾ cup): All-purpose does the trick.
Baking powder (1 tsp): This is where the puff happens.
Spices: Cinnamon (1 tbsp), nutmeg (¼ tsp), cloves (⅛ tsp). Use more or less depending on how “cozy” you want it.
Powdered sugar: For rolling and dusting. It’s not just for looks (but mostly for looks).

For the Frosting:

Unsalted butter (½ cup): Room temp is key. Cold butter = clumps.
Powdered sugar (5 cups): Don’t fight me on this.
White rum (½ tbsp) or rum extract (1 tsp): Optional, but fun.
Eggnog (¼ cup): Or swap with milk + a splash of vanilla if eggnog freaks you out.

For the Glaze:

Powdered sugar (1½ cups): Yup, more sugar.
Eggnog (2 tbsp): Or milk. Or coffee creamer? Go wild.

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How To Make Cinnamon Cake Roll?

I promise you’ve got this. I’ll walk you through it like I’m standing in your kitchen, sipping coffee and sneaking spoonfuls of frosting.

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a jelly roll pan with foil, spray it with nonstick spray, and give it a little dusting of flour. Think of it as cake insurance.

Step 2: Whip the Eggs

Use a mixer to beat the eggs until they’re frothy—like cappuccino foam. It takes about 5 minutes, which is perfect for a little dance break.

Step 3: Sweeten the Deal

Add sugar, oil, and vanilla to the eggs. Beat until smooth and creamy. Smells good already, right?

Step 4: Dry Stuff

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Slowly fold the dry mix into the egg mix. Don’t overthink it—just fold.

Step 5: Bake Time

Pour the batter into your pan and spread it out. Bake for 9-ish minutes. You want it springy, not overbaked.

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Step 6: Roll It Like a Pro (Or Not)

Lay out a clean towel and dust it with powdered sugar. Flip the hot cake onto the towel, peel off the foil, and roll it up. Yep, it’s scary. Just go slow. Let it cool for an hour (or two if you have the patience).

Step 7: Frosting Magic

Beat the butter till fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar, rum, and eggnog. Taste test is mandatory. Unroll the cooled cake and spread the frosting on. Re-roll it (without the towel this time).

Step 8: Glaze and Glamor

Mix powdered sugar and eggnog into a glaze. Drizzle it like you’re on a baking show. Extra points if you make it messy on purpose.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Let the glaze set, then slice it up and enjoy. Sip some coffee, take a bow.

Storage Options:

Fridge: Wrap it tight in plastic wrap. It’s good for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Slice it first, then wrap and freeze. Thaw in the fridge when you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Variations and Substitutions:

Because sometimes you just wanna mix it up.

No Eggnog? Use milk, cream, or a flavored coffee creamer. Hazelnut anyone?
More Spice? Add ginger or cardamom for a twist.
Boozy Glaze? Splash in extra rum. You’re an adult!
Nut-Free? Already is, but always check your ingredients.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Cake Roll?

Because cake isn’t just cake—it’s part of a vibe.

Coffee: Always. Try a cinnamon latte to match.
Chai Tea: Doubles down on the spice.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Because why not?
Fresh Berries: Fancy and refreshing.

Frequently Asked Questions:

My cake cracked! What now?
Mine too, sometimes. Smother it in glaze, call it rustic, and move on. It still tastes like a dream.

Can I make this ahead?
100%. Make it the day before, refrigerate, and serve chilled or at room temp.

Does it have to be a roll?
Nope! You can bake it flat and layer it like a sheet cake. No judgement here.

Ready to try this Cinnamon Cake Roll Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment, send a photo, or just tell me if your kitchen now smells like heaven. Baking should be fun—perfection is overrated.

Can’t wait to hear what you think!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

<Remember it later>

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

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Cinnamon Cake Roll Recipe

Delight, in the captivating twirls of this Cinnamon Cake Roll, a recipe where each slice takes you on a journey of flavors. Imagine the cinnamon-infused cake rolling effortlessly with a layer of eggnog-infused frosting every bite dissolving into a delectable blend of sweetness and spices. This recipe goes beyond ingredient mixing; it's an expression that honors the perfect balance between warmth and sugary goodness. As the cake bakes its enticing aroma fills your kitchen creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Ideal, for evenings or festive get-togethers this cake roll doesn't just offer a dessert but an entire experience—a slice of happiness wrapped in simplicity and an abundance of taste.

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