Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic, homemade treats that bring warmth and comfort in every bite, this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is just what you’ve been waiting for. Picture a tender, buttery cake with a tender crumb, adorned by ribbons of cinnamon-sugar swirled perfectly throughout. The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or simply because you deserve a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe hits all the right notes and is sure to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to contribute not only to the cake’s rich flavor but also its delightful texture and inviting golden color.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure to hold all those delicious flavors together.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a tender crumb and interacts with sour cream for perfect lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture—softened for easy creaming.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps tenderize the cake.
• 3 large eggs: Bind everything together with their protein and contribute to a moist texture.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth—never underestimate this simple flavor booster.
• 1 cup sour cream: Moisturizes with a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Sculpts the batter to just the right consistency.
• For the cinnamon swirl – 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moisture to the swirl.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses the cake with its heartwarming aroma and flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Greasing and flouring a 10-cup Bundt pan is essential to ensure the cake releases beautifully. Pay special attention to every nook and cranny of the pan so your swirl masterpiece comes out perfect!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed to guarantee an even rise and avoid any unwanted lumps in your cake batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This foundational step adds essential airiness that will make your bundt cake light instead of dense.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, thoroughly combining after each addition. This gradual incorporation strengthens the batter’s structure. Don’t forget the vanilla extract—it’s the secret ingredient that elevates the flavor to irresistible levels.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the sour cream and milk, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Be gentle and mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so patience here ensures tenderness.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and cinnamon to create your signature swirl mixture. The balance of sweetness and spice in this blend is what transforms a regular bundt cake into a cinnamon lover’s dream.

Step 7: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared Bundt pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly on top. Pour the remaining batter over it. Using a knife or spatula, gently swirl the batter just enough to create a pretty marbled effect without blending everything together.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The wait is worth it as the cake develops a golden crust with that spectacular swirl peeking through.

Step 9: Cool and Remove

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for around 10 minutes—this resting period will help it set—and then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe looking flawless when sliced.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of a vanilla glaze to enhance the cinnamon aroma without overpowering it. For a special touch, whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can make your presentation irresistible.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy chai latte. If you’re enjoying it brunch-style, fresh berries or a small bowl of fruit compote are delightful companions that complement the warm cinnamon notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake thick and serve it warm or at room temperature on a pretty platter. For a festive twist, turn it into mini individual servings by baking in smaller molds or bundtlets if you have the pans. You can even make a cinnamon ice cream sandwich using slices of this cake for a fun dessert surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will keep the cake moist and fresh, ensuring you enjoy that perfect swirl taste every time.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. Your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe can be frozen for up to two months and will thaw beautifully when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer, you can warm the whole cake at a low oven temperature wrapped in foil. This breathes new life into the cinnamon-swirled goodness.

FAQs

Can I substitute sour cream in this recipe?

Yes! You can use full-fat Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream. Both will maintain the tenderness and add a slight tang, preserving the cake’s moist texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to swirl the cinnamon mixture gently?

Absolutely. Over-swizzling blends the cinnamon mix too much and hides those beautiful, distinct swirls. A gentle touch creates that perfect marbled look and preserves pockets of delicious cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Can I use a different pan instead of a Bundt pan?

While a Bundt pan creates the iconic shape and optimal baking, you can use a loaf or tube pan if needed. Just adjust baking time accordingly, and remember that the swirl effect might look slightly different.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center is your best bet—a clean toothpick means it’s done. Keep an eye toward the end of baking to avoid drying out your cake.

Can I add nuts or other fillings to the cinnamon swirl?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled over the cinnamon sugar add delightful crunch and texture. You could even add raisins or chocolate chips for a tasty twist on this classic Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is truly a treasure—simple ingredients come together to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it at home; the aroma, the taste, and the joy it brings when shared with loved ones are simply unbeatable. Once you do, it might just become your go-to cake for every special moment and cozy afternoon.

Print