Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy, warmly spiced treats, the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. This cake brings together a tender, buttery crumb with a spectacular cinnamon-sugar swirl that dances through each slice, creating irresistible pockets of flavor and sweetness. It’s a delightful blend of classic comfort and elegant presentation, perfect for sharing over coffee or saving as a special dessert. The Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and show-stopping taste, inviting you to bake something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first joyful step in making this delicious cake. Each one plays an important role — from the fluffy texture contributed by the leavening agents to the warm spice notes that bring everything to life.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure and tenderness in the cake’s crumb.
• Baking powder (1½ tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Works with the sour cream to give a perfect rise and softness.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp + 1 tbsp): The star spice delivering warmth and that iconic swirl flavor.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Brings richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens evenly and helps with the tender crumb.
• Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Blended with cinnamon to create the irresistible swirl inside.
• Large eggs (3): Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds depth and rounds out the cake’s flavor.
• Sour cream (1 cup): Keeps the cake tender and moist while adding a slight tang.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Adds a pretty, sweet finish that’s perfect for serving.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready. Grease and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking — this makes all the difference in presentation.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the first teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Combining them first ensures that the leaveners and spice are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is key to a tender, airy cake base, so take your time here.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream — the sour cream adds a lovely moisture and subtle tang that brings the cake to life.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing here can make the cake tough, so mix gently until the batter looks smooth and uniform.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar with the remaining tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture will create the iconic swirl that defines this recipe’s character and flavor.

Step 7: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then carefully pour the remaining batter on top, smoothing out the surface to cover the swirl.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 9: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack or plate. Once fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful, delicate finish that enhances the sweetness.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is a classic choice that makes the cake look inviting and festive. For extra flair, try a light drizzle of a vanilla glaze or a sprinkling of chopped toasted nuts to add texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or slices of crisp apple. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements the cinnamon’s warmth, creating a lovely, balanced dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on individual dessert plates with a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick for garnish. You can also cut smaller squares of the cake to serve as bite-sized treats at parties, making for an eye-catching and delicious display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat to maintain moisture and texture.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. After cooling completely, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, it will keep for up to three months, ready to thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For that freshly baked feel, warm slices gently in a microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil for 10 minutes. This brings back the cake’s soft, tender texture and highlights the cinnamon aroma.

FAQs

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

You can use a loaf or tube pan if you don’t have a Bundt pan, but the classic swirl design and height might be less dramatic. Just adjust baking time accordingly, as smaller pans may require less time and larger pans more.

Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?

Sour cream contributes moisture and a slight tang that enhances flavor and tenderness. You could substitute with Greek yogurt, but plain yogurt or buttermilk might alter texture slightly. Try to stick with full-fat for best results.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a fantastic crunchy addition, while raisins add a chewy, sweet contrast. Fold them into the batter before layering for the swirl to spread them evenly.

How do I make sure the cinnamon swirl doesn’t sink to the bottom?

Layering the batter carefully and sprinkling the cinnamon sugar evenly over the first half helps keep the swirl nicely distributed. Avoid mixing after adding the swirl to preserve the pretty ribbon effect inside the cake.

What’s the best way to slice this Bundt cake?

Use a serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion to slice the cake. This helps maintain the tender crumb and cleanly showcases the cinnamon swirl pattern in each slice.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is an absolute gem for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. It brings comfort and a little sparkle to your kitchen and table with every slice. I encourage you to try this recipe—you’re going to love how that warm cinnamon swirl elevates a simple cake into something truly special. Happy baking and even happier tasting!

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