If you’re looking to add a touch of German charm to your holiday baking this season, why not try your hand at making a delightful Zimtschnecken Kuchen, also known as Cinnamon Roll Cake? This traditional German recipe combines all the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls, but in the form of a delicious and comforting cake. Perfect for cozying up by the fireplace with a cup of tea or delighting your guests during a festive gathering, this Zimtschnecken Kuchen is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
**Zimtschnecken Kuchen Cinnamon Roll Cake**
**Ingredients:**
For the cake:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
For the cinnamon swirl:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tbsp milk
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. In a separate bowl, prepare the cinnamon swirl by mixing together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
7. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter with a knife.
8. Add the remaining cake batter on top, spreading it carefully. Spoon the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the surface and swirl again.
9. Bake the Zimtschnecken Kuchen in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. While the cake is baking, make the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
11. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
12. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in slightly. Slice the Zimtschnecken Kuchen into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar that will fill your kitchen as this Zimtschnecken Kuchen bakes to perfection. Whether you choose to enjoy it for a cozy breakfast treat or as a sweet ending to a festive meal, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of all who gather around your table this Christmas. Your family and friends will surely be impressed by your baking skills and the delightful flavors of this traditional German-inspired dessert. Go ahead and indulge in a slice of warm, comforting Zimtschnecken Kuchen – a true holiday delight!