Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake 🍂 Easy Fall Dessert Recipe | Quick & Delicious Cinnamon Swirl Cake Idea

Table of Contents: Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

Holiday mornings, Sunday brunches, or anytime you crave comfort with zero fuss—this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is the dessert that keeps on giving. Imagine flaky cinnamon rolls layered in a buttery, spiced cake mix, baked until golden, and topped with luscious frosting. It’s not just delicious—it’s effortless. For busy families, caregivers, and home bakers who value taste without the stress, this is your new go-to. Warm, gooey, and absolutely irresistible, this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake delivers all the joy of fresh-baked pastries with the speed of an easy dump cake.

---

Introduction: Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake – Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something magical about a dessert that feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time. Meet the Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake, a dessert so easy it practically makes itself. Layered with soft, swirled cinnamon rolls, a fluffy cake mix base, melted butter, and a cloud of whipped cream cheese frosting, it’s the ultimate cinnamon roll dessert that takes less than 10 minutes to prep. No fancy tools, no folding, no decorating—just dump, bake, and devour.

Perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings (think Christmas or Thanksgiving dessert table centerpieces), or even a spontaneous quick sweet treat after dinner, this recipe fits seamlessly into real-life rhythms. It’s ideal for grandparents hosting the grandkids, working parents after a long day, or anyone who wants to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic lies in its simplicity: the name says it all. With just a few pantry staples and canned cinnamon rolls (yes, they work beautifully!), you’re minutes away from a warm, gooey, cinnamon-spiked masterpiece.

What makes this easy dump cake stand out? It combines the rich, buttery texture of coffee cake with the beloved flavor of cinnamon rolls—layered, baked, and finished with frosting straight from the can. No need to ice or swirl; the frosting sinks in as it bakes, creating a dreamy, creamy ribbon throughout. Add walnuts for crunch, or keep it smooth and classic—your choice. Whether you’re serving it warm on a chilly morning or as a surprise dessert during a family movie night, this recipe wins hearts every time.

---

Alternate Names & Variations

This dessert is so versatile, you might find it under names like:

– Cinnamon Roll Poke Cake
– Cinnamon Swirl Dump Dessert
– 3-Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Cake
– Easy Cinnamon Roll Dessert Bake
– Cinnamon-Frosted Dump Bars

You’ll also see it listed alongside other fan-favorite easy dump cake recipes, such as peach cobbler or apple crumb dump cake—same concept, different flavor. But for true cinnamon lovers, this version reigns supreme. It’s a modern twist on grandma’s classic casserole-style desserts, upgraded with pre-packaged convenience and crowd-pleasing charm.

---

Ingredients: Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

For a rich, golden, 9×13-inch cake that serves 6–8, gather these simple, flavorful ingredients:

• – Nonstick cooking spray (for easy release and clean serving)
• – 2 tubes (12.4 oz each) original cinnamon rolls with icing packets (prepared or canned style—fully cooked, pre-swirled, and ready to bake)
• – 1 can (12 oz) whipped cream cheese frosting (the light, fluffy spread that melts into sweet ribbons)
• – 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts, optional (for nutty crunch and texture contrast)
• – 1 box (21 oz) cinnamon swirl cake mix (pre-blended with cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla for instant flavor and soft crumb)
• – 12 tablespoons (1.5 sticks) unsalted butter, melted (rich, golden, and essential for that buttery cake base)

Pro Tip: Use full-fat ingredients for maximum richness—low-fat substitutions can dry out the cake.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures your Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake releases easily and cleans up in a flash.

2. Open & Arrange Cinnamon Rolls
Unroll one tube of cinnamon rolls and gently place them cut-side up in the dish, spreading them out evenly. Do the same with the second tube, tucking them close together but not overlapping. They’ll rise slightly as they bake.

3. Sprinkle Walnuts (Optional)
If using, scatter 1/2 cup chopped walnuts evenly over the rolls. This adds a lovely crunch and complements the rich frosting.

4. Dust with Cake Mix
Remove the frosting packet from the cinnamon roll box (you’ll use it later). Open the 21 oz box of cinnamon swirl cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the rolls and walnuts. There’s no need to pour water or add eggs—the moisture comes from the rolls and melted butter.

5. Drizzle Melted Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the 12 tablespoons unsalted butter until fully liquid (about 45 seconds). Drizzle it slowly and evenly over the cake mix. The butter will absorb into the mix, creating a golden, custard-like layer.

6. Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the center oven rack and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out clean (not doughy).

7. Add Frosting & Serve
Remove from oven and let cool 10 minutes (so it sets slightly). Open the frosting can and drizzle generously over the warm cake. For extra decadence, warm the frosting for 10 seconds before spreading. Optional: drizzle with leftover cinnamon roll icing too!

8. Serve Warm
Slice and serve with forks or small plates. Best enjoyed warm, but delicious at room temperature too.

Chef’s Tip: For a deeper cinnamon flavor, add 1 tsp ground cinnamon to the cake mix before sprinkling. No frosting? Microwave 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1/4 cup sugar and a splash of vanilla for a quick homemade pour-over.

---

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake comes together in under an hour, making it a top pick for quick sweet treats that don’t compromise on flavor. With a prep time of 10 minutes, a bake time of 35–40 minutes, and a total time of 50 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight indulgence or last-minute guest hosting. The recipe yields a generous 9×13-inch casserole, serving 6 to 8 people depending on portion size. Each square delivers approximately 420–450 calories, packed with cinnamon warmth, buttery goodness, and that signature gooey-center texture that makes every bite feel like a hug.

---

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What sets this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake apart is its brilliant balance of convenience and comfort. By leveraging convenience items—canned cinnamon rolls, boxed cake mix, canned frosting—you eliminate 90% of prep work while maximizing flavor. The easy dump cake technique works because the structure holds together: rolls provide chew, cake mix creates a tender crumb, and melted butter binds everything into a rich, cohesive dessert.

This recipe shines as easy comfort food for family dinners, especially during the holidays when kitchens are chaotic and time is tight. The cinnamon swirl cake mix enhances the inherent cinnamon-sugar flavor, while whipped cream cheese frosting adds a cool, tangy contrast. For added indulgence, try a cinnamon-spiked coffee or hot chocolate on the side.

Expert Tip: Line your baking dish with foil and coat it with nonstick spray for an even easier cleanup—plus, you can lift out the entire cake for clean slicing. Want a gooey bottom layer? Bake for 30 minutes, then drizzle with extra frosting mid-bake.

---

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. The frosting will firm up when chilled, so bring slices to room temp—or briefly reheat—for that fresh-baked feel.

To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 20–30 seconds—just long enough to melt the frosting and warm the interior. For larger portions, use a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes.

For freezing, wrap individual slices in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then reheat. This makes a fantastic quick sweet treat for unexpected guests or cozy nights in. Note: freshness of canned frosting means best results are within 1 month of freezing for optimal texture—perfect for holiday stash!

---

People Also Ask: Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

What is a dump cake and how is it made?

A dump cake is a no-mix, no-prep dessert where ingredients are literally “dumped” into a baking dish in layers, then baked. Originating in mid-century American home cooking, it uses canned fruit, cake mix, and butter to create a cobbler-style treat—minimal effort, maximum reward. In this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake, we swap fruit for cinnamon rolls and frosting, using the same layering method. The cake mix absorbs the butter and the moisture from the rolls to create a soft, custardy base, while the frosting melts into sweet ribbons. It’s a genius blend of convenience and comfort.

Can I use canned cinnamon rolls for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned cinnamon rolls are the star of this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake, and they work perfectly. These pre-baked, pre-swirled rolls come with their own frosting packets, making them ideal for layered desserts. Simply unroll them and lay them in the dish cut-side up—they retain shape and texture during baking while adding flaky, cinnamon-sweet richness. Plus, they eliminate the need to roll dough from scratch. Just ensure you use the full-fat version for best results—no low-calorie or low-sugar substitutes. This is one easy dump cake that celebrates convenience without sacrificing taste.

What are some variations for cinnamon roll dump cake?

To switch it up, try: using raisin cinnamon rolls for subtle fruitiness; swapping the cake mix for yellow, spice, or even funfetti for a twist; or stirring 1 tsp nutmeg or cardamom into the cake mix for deeper spice. Replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or skip nuts entirely. For a protein boost, add 8 oz softened cream cheese mixed with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp vanilla as a cheesecake layer beneath the cake mix. You can even top it with mini marshmallows in the last 5 minutes of baking for a cozy s’more feel. This cinnamon roll dessert is endlessly customizable while staying true to its quick sweet treats roots.

How do you serve cinnamon roll dump cake?

Serve Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake warm, ideally within 30 minutes of baking, when the frosting is soft and the cake layer is pillowy. Use a sharp knife to cut squares, wiping it clean between slices. Offer it on a platter with small forks, or serve on plates with a dusting of powdered sugar for elegance. Pair it with coffee, chai, or a cold glass of milk. For entertaining, serve as part of a dessert bar with fruit, whipped cream, and cinnamon sticks. It’s perfect as a holiday breakfast centerpiece or a surprise dessert after a family dinner. Leftovers? Reheat gently for a second-day delight—it actually improves slightly with time!

---

Conclusion: Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake

If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen on a busy morning longing for something sweet, warm, and satisfying—Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is your answer. It’s not just a cinnamon roll dessert; it’s a celebration of simple joy, shared moments, and the kind of comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself after a long week, this easy dump cake delivers big flavor with zero hassle.

So preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and let magic happen. Don’t forget to snap a photo before it vanishes—because we know it will! Share your creations with us in the comments, tag us on social, or send us your flavor twist. We can’t wait to see what you make.

Happy baking—may your mornings be sweet, your crumbs be golden, and your heart full.

---

You Might Also Like

– Cherry Pineapple Dump Cake
– Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – A No-Fuss Dessert!
– Green Tomato Pie – The Best Southern Recipe with a Tangy Twist
– Easy Christmas Cream Cheese Sprinkle Cookies – Festive Holiday Baking Delight Recipe

Find Us On Pinterest and Facebook.

Print