As I stood in my kitchen, the warm scent of cinnamon enveloped me like a cozy hug, instantly transporting me to cherished memories of family gatherings. The star of the moment? This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, a perfect balance of tender, buttery crumb and rich, caramel-infused ribbons. Whether it’s meant for a weekend brunch, a delightful coffee companion, or a festive dessert, this easy-to-make cake guarantees you’ll impress friends and family alike. What’s more, it’s beginner-friendly and remains moist for days, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to escape the clutches of fast food. With simple ingredient swaps available, this delightful recipe can even cater to gluten-free needs! Ready to unleash your inner baker and fill your home with that delightful aroma? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe together!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: With its warm, cinnamon-sugar ribbons, this cake envelops your taste buds in a comforting embrace that’s hard to resist.
Beginner-Friendly: This easy-to-follow recipe means you don’t need to be a pro baker to create something magical.
Moist for Days: Enjoy a slice today and relish the fact that it stays tender and delicious for days—no more dry cake disappointments!
Customization Galore: Swap ingredients like Greek yogurt for sour cream or add fun extras such as nuts or chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a festive gathering, this cinnamon swirl bundt cake is sure to impress every guest.
And if you’re looking for more delightful baking inspiration, don’t miss out on our recipes for Chocolate Tuxedo Cake and Peanut Butter Cake!
Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Ingredients
• Prepare to create a delightful masterpiece with these simple ingredients!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure while keeping the crumb tender; no substitutions recommended.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential for a well-rounded taste.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and ensures a soft, moist crumb; always use unsalted for better control over salt content.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create volume; reduce sugar if you prefer a less sweet treat.
- Eggs – Binds the batter and adds richness; large eggs are your best bet for this recipe.
- Sour Cream – Keeps the cake moist and tangy for that dense yet tender texture; Greek yogurt can be a nice alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the batter; whole milk is preferred for richness, but any milk will do.
- Brown Sugar – Creates the signature cinnamon swirl with delightful caramel notes; light or dark brown sugar both work beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the cake with aromatic spice; fresh ground cinnamon is optimal for maximum flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – For a light dusting on top; can be omitted if you prefer a less sweet finish.
For the Glaze
- Milk (for glaze) – 2-3 tablespoons mixed with powdered sugar for a simple topping; this is completely optional but adds a nice touch!
In this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that irresistible flavor and tender texture you’ll absolutely love sharing with friends and family!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab your bundt pan. Generously grease and flour the pan, ensuring to cover all intricate details to prevent sticking later. This crucial first step will ensure that your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake releases effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This blend is essential for achieving the right texture in your cake. Once mixed, set this bowl aside so the dry ingredients can mingle while you focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Cream them for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy, and looks pale in color. This step will give your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake a moist and tender crumb.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is just combined, creating a smooth blend. The wet ingredients will bring moisture and flavor to your cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; this will keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake light and fluffy.
Step 6: Create the Swirl
In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended. Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared bundt pan, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Carefully add the remaining batter, ensuring it covers the swirl layer completely.
Step 7: Marble Effect
Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter in a figure-eight motion to create a beautiful marbled effect. Be cautious not to overdo it; a few swirls will give you the desired pattern of cinnamon ribbons throughout your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.
Step 8: Bake
Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready to be removed from the oven and will be beautifully golden on top.
Step 9: Cool & Release
Once baked, let the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, gently invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing it to cool fully is key to achieving the perfect texture and avoiding crumbling when you slice it.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight for an even tastier treat. Simply wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature to keep it moist. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to maximize its flavor and texture. When ready to enjoy, dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze for a delightful finish that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly baked!
What to Serve with Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
There’s nothing like a warm slice of cake to elevate your meal or sweeten your gathering.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of seasonal fruits offers a vibrant contrast to the rich, buttery flavors of the bundt cake, enhancing your dessert experience. The mix of sweet and juicy textures provides a delightful balance.
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Coffee or Tea: Sipping a warm beverage alongside your cake creates a cozy ambiance, allowing you to savor each bite while enjoying a comforting drink. Choose a light roast coffee or a floral tea to complement the cinnamon.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy delight melts over the warm cake, creating a heavenly combination of cinnamon and cool vanilla. The contrasting temperatures provide a truly indulgent experience that feels decadent.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and a touch of sweetness, beautifully complementing the cake’s cinnamon swirl. Plus, it’s an easy way to elevate the dessert presentation on your table.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: For a rich twist, serve warm slices with a side of chocolate ganache. The chocolate’s depth adds a luxurious layer to your cake experience, appealing to chocolate lovers everywhere.
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Mixed Nuts: A bowl of lightly salted mixed nuts can bring a satisfying crunch to each bite, making your dessert table enticing and delightful. The savory elements contrast with the sweet cake beautifully, creating a well-rounded treat.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink resonates with the cinnamon notes in the bundt cake, creating a harmonious flavor experience. The creamy texture of the latte alongside the moist cake will envelop you in cozy warmth.
Serve one or more of these delightful pairings, and watch your gatherings come alive with warmth and flavor!
Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful cake, making it your own with these simple swaps and additions!
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a tangy twist and extra protein.
- Chopped Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a delicious contrast to the soft cake.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a fun surprise that elevates the flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this delightful cake gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
- Coconut Flakes: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist and extra moisture.
- Spice Boost: Enhance flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom alongside the cinnamon for a unique aroma.
- Fruit Swirl: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries for a juicy swirl that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze on top for added sweetness, elevating the cake beautifully.
Don’t forget to explore our other delicious desserts like Oreo Poke Cake or the rich Chocolate Skull Cake for more customization inspiration!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
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Room Temperature Essentials: Start with room temperature butter and eggs for a smooth, well-combined batter that results in a moist cake.
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Grease with Care: Make sure to grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly, especially the intricate designs, to prevent your cake from sticking.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry and wet ingredients just until combined to keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake light and fluffy.
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Swirl Gently: Overdoing it with the swirling can lead to a muddy batter—just a few gentle figure-eight motions will create beautiful cinnamon ribbons.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling and maintain its tender texture.
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Wrap for Freshness: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly to keep your cake moist and delightful for days to come!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Room Temperature: Keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain its moistness.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake, but it may dry out slightly. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap followed by foil. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F until heated through without drying out.
Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs
How should I select the best ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature; this will help create a smooth batter. When choosing flour, all-purpose flour is the way to go—avoid substitutes as they can affect the cake’s texture. Look for fresh baking powder for an ideal rise, and use pure vanilla extract for the richest flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Keep your cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you opt to refrigerate it, it can last up to 5 days, but keep in mind it might dry out a bit. Always ensure it’s sealed properly to maintain its delightful moisture.
Can I freeze my Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for this cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. For a warm treat, gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What do I do if my cake sticks to the bundt pan?
To avoid this issue, make sure to grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter. If you find that your cake does stick, run a soft knife around the edges to loosen it. Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, as this helps it release more easily when inverted onto a cooling rack.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake can easily cater to gluten-free diets by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe doesn’t contain nuts unless you choose to add them. However, always check your ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Can I use different ingredients if I have dietary restrictions?
Very! You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option if desired, and feel free to reduce the granulated sugar to cater to your taste preferences. If you’re looking for added texture, tossing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts enhances the cake beautifully—just remember to adjust for any nut allergies!
Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake That's Moist and Irresistible
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab your bundt pan. Generously grease and flour the pan, ensuring to cover all intricate details to prevent sticking later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is just combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well blended. Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared bundt pan, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Carefully add the remaining batter.
- Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter in a figure-eight motion to create a beautiful marbled effect.
- Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake.
- Once baked, let the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, gently invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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