There are few things more comforting than the smell of cinnamon baking in the oven, and that’s exactly what inspired me to create this moist cinnamon swirl bundt cake. I remember the first time I made it—it filled my kitchen with warmth and sweetness, reminding me of cozy mornings when a simple cake could make the day feel special. Over the years, this recipe has become a true favorite, not just in my home but also among friends and family who request it often. I wanted to share it here because it is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect addition to any baker’s collection.

This cake stands out because of its soft, tender crumb and the ribbon of cinnamon sugar running through the center, which gives every slice a delightful swirl. The bundt shape makes it visually appealing without requiring too much effort, and it’s one of those recipes that feels both nostalgic and timeless. I love that it works equally well for a casual weekend treat, a holiday gathering, or even as a simple dessert for guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this moist cinnamon swirl bundt cake because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. The flavor is comforting without being overwhelming, making it a cake you’ll want to bake again and again. Its texture is incredibly moist, yet the swirl adds a light crunch and depth of flavor that keeps every bite interesting.

This cake is also ideal for anyone who enjoys recipes that deliver impressive results without requiring complicated steps. It looks beautiful right out of the pan, and you don’t even need heavy frostings or elaborate decorations—just a dusting of powdered sugar is enough. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and guaranteed to impress.

Versatile

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it for breakfast alongside coffee or tea, enjoy it as a mid-afternoon snack, or offer it as a light dessert after dinner. It also travels well, so it’s a great option for potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings. You can even make small adjustments to the flavor, such as adding a touch of nutmeg or using brown sugar for a richer swirl.

Affordable

This cake is budget-friendly because it uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and cinnamon are staples in most kitchens, and together they create something truly delightful. You won’t need to purchase expensive or hard-to-find items, which makes this recipe not only accessible but also a smart choice when you want to bake something special without stretching your budget.

Ingredients for the Recipe

• All-purpose flour

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Unsalted butter

• Eggs

• Sour cream

• Whole milk

• Vanilla extract

• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making a moist cinnamon swirl bundt cake is easier than you might expect. The process is straightforward, and once you’ve gathered your ingredients, you’ll find that the steps flow naturally. One of the things I enjoy most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together while still producing bakery-quality results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously grease a bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray, making sure to get into all the grooves. Lightly dust the pan with flour, tapping out the excess. This step ensures the cake will release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir until evenly mixed and set aside. This simple combination will create the ribbon-like swirl that gives the cake its signature look and flavor.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about three to four minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Creaming incorporates air into the batter, giving the cake its tender crumb.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients add richness and depth to the flavor while helping the cake rise beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Keeping the dry ingredients apart until this stage ensures they are evenly distributed and prevents clumps in the batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

With the mixer on low, gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with sour cream and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make the cake dense rather than soft.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter in an even layer. Add the remaining batter on top and carefully spread it out, sealing in the cinnamon swirl. Use a knife to gently swirl through the layers if you want a more marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so check toward the end of the baking period.

Step 9: Cool and Release

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Be patient here—removing it too soon can cause the cake to break.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Once cooled, dust the cake lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. Slice and serve with coffee, tea, or even a glass of warm milk.

Quick and Easy

Despite the impressive look of a bundt cake, this recipe is quick and manageable. Most of the work involves simple mixing, layering, and baking. The preparation time is short, and while the cake bakes, you have time to prepare other dishes or simply relax while the kitchen fills with the scent of cinnamon.

Customizable

This recipe offers plenty of room for customization. You can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for a nutty crunch, or swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract to create a slightly different flavor profile. Another fun option is to drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cake instead of dusting with powdered sugar. A glaze made with powdered sugar and milk adds a touch of sweetness and a polished finish.

Popular with Many People

Cinnamon swirl bundt cake is a universally loved dessert. Its familiar flavors appeal to both children and adults, making it a great option for family gatherings, church events, or office parties. Because the bundt shape naturally looks decorative, you don’t need to be an expert decorator to serve something that looks beautiful on the table.

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FAQs

Can I make this bundt cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature. It stays moist for up to three days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different type of pan?
If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can bake this cake in two loaf pans or a 9×13-inch pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as thinner cakes may bake faster.

Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?
Yes. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream works beautifully. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for a sweeter finish and added presentation.

How do I keep the cake from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease every corner of the bundt pan generously and dust it with flour. Nonstick spray with flour also works well for easy release.