Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
If you are dreaming of a cake that perfectly marries soft, buttery crumb with a spicy-sweet surprise inside, then this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is your new best friend. It’s a delightful masterpiece of tender cake layered with a luscious cinnamon and sugar swirl that adds just the right amount of warmth and sweetness. Each bite is a cozy hug of flavors, perfect for an afternoon treat or a festive dessert that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds and wanting to share it with all your favorite people.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is where the magic begins, and this recipe keeps it wonderfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: butter brings richness, sour cream ensures a moist tender crumb, and cinnamon sugar creates that irresistible swirl that makes this cake truly special.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake providing structure and softness.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise to perfection with lightness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives an extra boost to ensure tender crumb.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, key for that buttery mouthfeel.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly without overpowering.
- 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tenderness and moistness, keeping the cake from drying out.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a pleasant crunch and depth of flavor if you’re feeling nutty.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar + 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for the swirl): The star combination that gives this cake its signature sweet and spicy ribbon.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your Bundt pan thoroughly. This step is critical to ensure your cake releases smoothly once baked, preserving that beautiful shape and swirl.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake rise beautifully and gives it a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract for that subtle warmth and enhanced flavor. This careful blending ensures your batter will be smooth and consistent.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl. This step guarantees even distribution of the leavening agents, which is essential for a perfectly risen cake.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Now, alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry mix. This method keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
Step 6: Layer Batter and Add Cinnamon Swirl
Pour about half of your batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar evenly over the batter. Then add the remaining batter on top and gently swirl using a knife or skewer to create that stunning cinnamon ribbon inside the cake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting through the kitchen during this time is pure anticipation coming to life.
Step 8: Cool and Invert
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, revealing its gorgeous swirled interior and golden crust.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Garnishes
To elevate your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, consider dusting it lightly with powdered sugar or drizzling a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk. A handful of toasted walnuts on top adds a lovely crunch and an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Serve generous slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Hot coffee or spiced chai tea complement this cake perfectly, enhancing the cinnamon’s warm notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, you could garnish with fresh cranberries or sprinkle a few edible flowers on top. Cutting the cake into mini Bundt shapes makes for adorable bite-sized treats at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful, ready for when you want a delightful snack.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When craving a slice, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked feel, warm slices of your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat gently in an oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This helps to revive the tender texture and aroma.
FAQs
Can I use oil instead of butter in this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Butter is recommended because it adds both flavor and moisture, but you can substitute oil for a slightly different texture. Keep in mind the cake might be a bit denser and less rich.
Is it necessary to use sour cream?
Sour cream adds moisture and tang that makes this cake incredibly tender, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed, though the texture may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the Bundt pan?
Grease your pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, and dust it lightly with flour. Make sure to get every nook to ensure easy release and a perfect shape.
Can I add nuts to the cinnamon swirl?
Yes! Incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon sugar swirl adds wonderful texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the spice.
What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon sugar without overmixing?
Drop the cinnamon sugar over the batter in layers, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl just once or twice. Avoid stirring vigorously so the layers stay distinct and visually stunning.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, marrying simple ingredients into a stunning dessert that looks and tastes like a special occasion cake. Whether you’re baking for your family, a holiday gathering, or just treating yourself, this cake will fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth and love. Give it a try today and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
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Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is a moist, tender cake with a delicious cinnamon sugar swirl throughout. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, it combines a classic vanilla cake with a warm cinnamon and sugar layer, offering a delightful texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts add a pleasant crunch and complement the sweet cinnamon flavors.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Swirl Mixture
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure easy release.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air to help the cake rise.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Arrange Batter and Swirl: Pour half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top, along with half of the chopped walnuts if using. Add the remaining batter, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar and walnuts. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batter and cinnamon sugar layers together creating the signature swirl.
- Bake the Cake: Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Remove: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix once dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better emulsification.
- For extra flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before adding.
- Ensure the Bundt pan is well greased to prevent sticking.
- Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Cinnamon swirl cake, Bundt cake, cinnamon sugar cake, walnut cake, moist cake, dessert, breakfast cake
