Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake – A Cozy Dessert Delight!

There’s something so comforting about the smell of cinnamon filling the kitchen—it instantly transports me back to quiet mornings and family gatherings. This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it never fails to impress. It’s rich, buttery, and filled with that warm cinnamon swirl that makes each slice feel like a hug. I remember baking this for the first time on a chilly Sunday afternoon, with soft music playing in the background and the scent slowly taking over my home. That moment became a tradition.

What I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. Despite its beautiful presentation, it’s surprisingly simple to make. The bundt shape gives it a rustic charm, and that golden swirl of cinnamon running through the center is as delightful to look at as it is to taste. It’s the kind of dessert that looks fancy enough for a holiday table but is easy enough for a weekday treat.

You’re going to love this cake for many reasons. It’s soft, tender, and not overly sweet—just perfectly balanced. The cinnamon sugar swirl adds that hint of spice that warms you from the inside out. And the texture? Incredibly moist, thanks to the sour cream in the batter. Serve it with coffee in the morning, or as an after-dinner dessert with a drizzle of glaze. It never feels out of place.

This cake is also incredibly versatile. Want to make it festive? Add chopped nuts or a simple vanilla glaze. Looking for something with a twist? Try swapping cinnamon for pumpkin spice during the fall months. It can easily be tailored to your taste or the season.

And let’s talk about how affordable it is. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. There’s no need for specialty items or expensive additions. It’s a simple mix of baking basics that come together in a stunning way.

Ingredients for the Recipe:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

For the cinnamon swirl:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Optional glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Prepare This Recipe

Creating this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is a rewarding process that doesn’t require any complicated techniques. From start to finish, it’s a simple and enjoyable experience—even if you’re not an expert baker. The batter comes together in just a few steps, and the swirl of cinnamon sugar adds that magical touch. Once baked, the cake has a golden crust, a soft interior, and a warm aroma that fills the kitchen. Here’s how I like to prepare it:

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Make sure the pan is well-coated so the cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed and helps prevent lumps in the batter.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Creaming well at this stage is important for a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the batter stays smooth and doesn’t curdle. Once the eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add the Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. This is your swirl mixture. It’s sweet, spicy, and creates that lovely ribbon throughout the cake.

Step 7: Assemble the Batter in the Pan
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Spread it out evenly using a spatula. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth the surface gently.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it needs more time, check every 5 minutes.

Step 9: Cool and Remove from Pan
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely. Don’t rush this step—letting it cool properly ensures it holds its shape.

Step 10: Add the Optional Glaze
In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake using a spoon or fork. The glaze adds a light sweetness and makes the cake even more inviting.

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Quick and Easy

Even though it looks like a fancy bakery cake, this bundt cake is truly quick and easy to prepare. There’s no need for special tools or complex skills. As long as you measure carefully and don’t overmix the batter, the result will always be delicious. The cinnamon swirl only takes seconds to put together, and the rest of the process is straightforward.

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Customizable

One of the best things about this cake is how easy it is to customize. Want a little crunch? Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon swirl. Prefer a citrusy twist? Try a lemon glaze instead of vanilla. You can also use yogurt in place of sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor. The base recipe is solid, and it welcomes creativity.

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Popular with Many People

This cake has become a favorite with everyone I serve it to. It’s the kind of dessert people keep going back to for “just one more slice.” Whether I’m bringing it to a gathering or serving it at home, there are rarely any leftovers. The combination of buttery richness and cinnamon warmth is universally loved—kids and adults alike enjoy it. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.

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FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, absolutely. This Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake keeps very well. You can make it one to two days in advance. Once it’s completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to add a glaze, it’s best to do that the day you’re serving.

Can I freeze this bundt cake?
Yes, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Add the glaze after thawing for the best texture.

What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds the same moisture and slight tanginess that makes the cake so tender.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease every corner and detail of the bundt pan thoroughly, then dust it lightly with flour. Tap out any excess. A well-prepared pan ensures the cake releases without breaking.

Can I use a different pan if I don’t have a bundt pan?
Yes, you can use a loaf pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Just keep in mind the baking time may vary slightly. Watch for doneness and adjust accordingly.