If you’re in the mood for a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you absolutely have to try this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe. It takes the gooey, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls and transforms it into a simple, crowd-pleasing cake that’s bursting with sweetness and buttery crunch. No complicated dough to knead or hours at the stove—just layers of flavor baked together into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re craving a cozy dessert to share or a quick but impressive addition to your next gathering, this Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe will become your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every fantastic recipe starts with just a few essential ingredients, and this one is no exception. Each component here plays a vital role—from the rich, buttery base to the sweet, cinnamony topping—helping create the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls: The star of the show, bringing soft, sweet layers filled with cinnamon and sugar.
- 1 cup butter, melted: Adds luscious richness and helps the topping brown to a beautiful golden hue.
- 1 box yellow cake mix: Provides the structure and subtle vanilla flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, but feel free to skip or swap for your favorite nuts.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Deeply sweet with a hint of molasses, it enhances the caramelized texture on top.
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon: Pumps up the warmth and spice, tying everything together beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and can slide out easily when it’s done.
Step 2: Cut and Layer the Cinnamon Rolls
Take those delightful cinnamon rolls and cut each one into quarters. Spread them evenly in the greased dish—these little pieces will bake to perfection, absorbing the flavors of the topping.
Step 3: Mix the Topping Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the yellow cake mix, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture is going to give the dessert that unforgettable crunch and sweetness as it bakes.
Step 4: Pour and Sprinkle
Pour your luscious butter and cake mix mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters, making sure every inch is covered. If you’re adding pecans, sprinkle them generously on top now for a nutty twist that contrasts the soft rolls perfectly.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is a gorgeous golden brown with some crispy edges—be careful not to overbake or dry it out.
Step 6: Cool and Get Ready to Enjoy
Once baked, let the cake cool slightly so the layers set but remain warm enough for the cinnamony aroma to be irresistible. This resting time helps the dessert hold its shape when you serve.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is amazing on its own, a light drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can take it to the next level. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or extra cinnamon adds a lovely finishing touch and keeps the flavors bright.
Side Dishes
Serve this dessert alongside a cup of strong coffee or a rich hot chocolate to balance the sweetness. Fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, also pairs wonderfully, lending a refreshing contrast to the buttery richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, bake the Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized servings. You can also add layers of cream cheese or mascarpone between cinnamon rolls before baking for a richer, creamier surprise. Present it with rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to showcase its golden, inviting texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stores beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Rewarm leftover pieces in the microwave for about 20 seconds on medium, or use a low oven (around 300°F) for 10 minutes to get the outside crispy again. It’s just as comforting and delicious when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use canned cinnamon rolls with icing on them?
It’s best to remove any icing before assembling the dump cake because the topping mixture creates its own glaze and texture. That said, you can drizzle frosting on top after baking to add extra sweetness.
Is it necessary to use pecans?
Pecans are optional and add great crunch and flavor, but you can omit them or substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even seeds, depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls and cake mix. Many brands offer certified gluten-free options that will work perfectly with this recipe.
How sweet is this cake? Should I reduce sugar if I prefer less sweet desserts?
This dessert is wonderfully sweet but balanced thanks to the cinnamon and yellow cake mix. If you prefer it less sweet, you can slightly reduce the brown sugar to ¾ cup without losing the signature flavor.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time and bake later?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cake in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will go into the oven cold.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe is pure magic for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls without the fuss of making them from scratch. It’s quick, delicious, and always a showstopper that brings smiles to the table. Give it a try—once you make it, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Dump Cake is an easy and delicious dessert that combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the crumbly texture of yellow cake mix. Topped with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional pecans, this bake is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Base
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls
Dry Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted
Optional Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the dump cake.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and to help the cake bake evenly.
- Arrange Cinnamon Rolls: Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and evenly distribute them across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Mix Topping Mixture: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, yellow cake mix, brown sugar, and cinnamon, stirring until well mixed for a flavorful topping.
- Assemble Cake: Pour the butter and cake mix mixture evenly over the chopped cinnamon rolls, covering them as much as possible.
- Add Pecans: If desired, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to let it set and make it easier to slice and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts if preferred.
- Use cream cheese cinnamon rolls for an extra creamy flavor.
- For a richer taste, drizzle icing over the cake before serving.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings using a bigger baking dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
