As the warm cinnamon scent swirls through your kitchen, it feels as if a cozy hug is wrapping around you. This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is not just a treat; it’s an invitation to gather, share, and indulge in a slice of nostalgia. With its soft, tender crumb and rich ribbons of spice and sweetness, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a relaxed Sunday brunch or a festive holiday celebration. It boasts beginner-friendly steps and can be easily customized, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful culinary creation. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, tasting even better the next day! Are you ready to give your family the gift of a beautifully swirled cake that’s sure to become a beloved staple? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together! Why is this Bundt Cake a Must-Bake? Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those new to baking, requiring only simple techniques. Delicious Aroma: The enticing scent of cinnamon and sugar fills your home, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Moist and Tender: The combination of sour cream and butter ensures a delightfully soft texture with every bite. Versatile Treat: Customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for a unique twist, or enjoy it plain for classic comfort. Make-Ahead Goodness: Bake it a day in advance; it promises improved flavors and effortless entertaining! You’ll fall in love with the cozy charm of this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake as it brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Ingredients For the Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure while keeping the crumb tender. Substitution: Can use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend for a gluten-free version. Baking Powder + Baking Soda – Help the cake rise evenly and stay light. No substitutions recommended. Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. Essential for flavor, no substitutions. Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the batter and swirl with warm spice. Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor. Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor and a soft, moist crumb. Substitution: Can use margarine or a dairy-free butter. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps cream the butter to create volume. No substitutions recommended. Eggs – Bind the batter and add richness. Substitution: Flax eggs for a vegan option (1 flax egg = 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water). Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the cake’s warm flavor profile. Substitution: Almond extract can provide an interesting twist. Sour Cream – Keeps the cake moist and tangy, contributing to a dense yet tender texture. Substitution: Plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used. For the Cinnamon Swirl Brown Sugar + Cinnamon – Create the signature swirl with deep, caramel-like notes. No substitutions recommended. For the Topping Powdered Sugar – A light dusting for a classic, elegant finish. Substitution: Can use a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, generously grease a Bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring all crevices are covered to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving a flawless release once your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is baked. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This mixture should be well-blended and free of lumps, creating a solid foundation for your cake. Set this bowl aside, as this will be incorporated into the wet ingredients shortly. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This is vital for introducing air into the batter, ensuring your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake rises beautifully and maintains a tender texture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of sour cream, blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The eggs will enrich the batter while the sour cream adds both moisture and tang, setting the stage for a deliciously moist cake. Step 5: Blend in Dry Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in a dense cake. You want to keep the batter tender, which is key for your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. Allow the batter to sit for a moment while you prepare the cinnamon swirl. Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, mixing until blended. This delicious swirl will bring warmth and sweetness to your cake. Set this aside to sprinkle between the layers and add that signature touch to your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. Step 7: Layer the Batter and Swirl Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading evenly to cover the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Then, gently dollop the remaining batter on top, spreading it slightly to cover the swirl. Finally, use a knife to create a gentle swirl throughout the batter, being careful not to overdo it. Step 8: Bake the Cake Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake as it bakes, enjoying the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen. It’s done when the top is golden brown and springs back when gently pressed. Step 9: Cool and Finish Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period helps it to loosen from the sides. Then, carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack, letting the cake cool completely before slicing. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish that adds a touch of elegance to your dessert. Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Variations Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize this cake to suit your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with dairy-free margarine and use a non-dairy yogurt for extra moisture. Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the great texture while catering to gluten sensitivities. Chocolate Swirl: Incorporate cocoa powder in place of half the flour for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. Nutty Surprise: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor. Spicy Twist: Combine ground ginger or nutmeg with the cinnamon swirl for an unexpected seasonal kick, perfect for cozy evenings. Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a vanilla or cream cheese glaze over the cooled cake for added sweetness. This adds a lovely decorative touch! Fruity Flavor: Toss in diced apples or pears into the batter for a fruity surprise that complements the warm spices beautifully. Decorative Topping: Try adding shredded coconut or a sprinkle of toasty almonds on top instead of powdered sugar for an attractive finish. With these delightful variations, you’re sure to make this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake your own delicious creation! Expert Tips for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and airy batter, crucial for your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake’s texture. Grease the Pan Well: Generously grease your Bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Pay attention to all crevices for a flawless release. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so be gentle for that tender crumb you crave. Cinnamon Swirl Perfection: Layer the batter and cinnamon mixture carefully to create a beautiful swirl. Use a knife to blend just a few times for a lovely aesthetic. Cool Completely: Let your cake cool fully in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting. This helps avoid crumbling when you slice into your delicious cake. How to Store and Freeze Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Room Temperature: Keep the wrapped cake at room temperature for up to 3 days. Use plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and softness. Fridge: If you prefer a chilled slice, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It may become denser but will still be delicious. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) for a warm treat reminiscent of a freshly baked Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. What to Serve with Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake? Serving up slices of this delightful cake can warm the heart and soul, bringing sweet comfort to any gathering. Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing burst and contrast beautifully with the cake’s sweetness. They not only enhance the presentation but balance the flavors, making each bite a little bit of sunshine. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream provides a rich, creamy contrast to the tender cake. It’s like a cozy pillow for your slice, adding indulgence and elevating your dessert experience to a new level of comfort. Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the warm spices in the cake. The aromatic beverages enhance the overall experience, inviting intimate conversations during a cozy brunch or afternoon catch-up. Vanilla Ice Cream: Melt-in-your-mouth vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the spiced cake warmth. As the ice cream melts into each slice, it adds a delicious creaminess that brings a nostalgic feel to every bite. Nutty Granola: For a crunchy twist, serve a side of nutty granola. Its crunchy texture, along with the spiced undertones of the cake, creates a delightful mix that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce over the cake adds an extra layer of indulgence. The buttery sweetness meshes beautifully with the cinnamon swirl, creating a dessert that feels truly decadent. Hot Chocolate: For an especially cozy treat, a warm mug of hot chocolate would add a comforting note to your gathering. The rich chocolate flavor pairs harmoniously with the spiced cake, evoking memories of chilly evenings and sweet moments by the fire. Cream Cheese Frosting: A light coating of tangy cream cheese frosting can add complexity to the flavors. This rich topping balances the sweetness of the cake and adds an extra layer of creaminess that feels indulgent and delightful. Chocolate Chai Latte: This unique drink is aromatic and luscious while enhancing the cinnamon spice in the cake. The warm, spicy notes make it an unexpected but fabulous pairing, perfect for fall gatherings or winter celebrations! Banana Pudding: A small cup of banana pudding could round out the flavors deliciously. The creamy and fruity notes contrast well with the cake’s richness, creating a fun and unexpected ending to a lovely meal. Make Ahead Options These Moist 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 develop and improve overnight. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and moist. If you need to prep even further ahead, the unbaked batter can be refrigerated for up to 3 days—just make sure to give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the Bundt pan. When ready to serve, simply dust it with powdered sugar and enjoy a delightful, homemade treat that’s just as delicious as if it were baked fresh that day! Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ground cinnamon for this recipe? Absolutely! Choosing fresh ground cinnamon is key for the best flavor in your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. Look for spices in a dark jar to ensure you’re getting the freshest quality. You can also give it a sniff; if the aroma is weak, it may be time to replace it! What’s the best way to store leftovers? To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. This helps maintain its moisture. If you’re looking to extend its life, slices can also be placed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Can this cake be frozen? Very! You can freeze individual slices of your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer zip-lock bag or an airtight container. For the best flavor, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying, or quickly reheat in the microwave for a cozy treat! What if my cake sticks to the Bundt pan? Oh no! To prevent this, it’s crucial to grease the Bundt pan very well prior to pouring in the batter. Use non-stick spray or butter, making sure to coat all the crevices of the pan. If it does stick, gently run a knife along the edges to loosen it, then try tapping the pan gently on the counter to release it. Are there any dietary considerations for this cake? Indeed! This recipe can be easily made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Additionally, to make it vegan-friendly, replace the eggs with flax eggs—1 flax egg equals 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Just let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to your batter! Can I use alternative toppings beyond powdered sugar? Of course! Feel free to top your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk, or add cream cheese frosting for a richer finish. Alternatively, serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a lovely touch of indulgence. Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for Cozy Baking Days This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is perfect for gatherings, offering a cozy aroma and tender texture that's sure to become a favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake2 cups all-purpose flour Can use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend for a gluten-free version.1 teaspoon baking powder No substitutions recommended.1/2 teaspoon baking soda No substitutions recommended.1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor, no substitutions.2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor.1/2 cup unsalted butter Can use margarine or a dairy-free butter.1 cup granulated sugar No substitutions recommended.2 large eggs Flax eggs for a vegan option (1 flax egg = 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).1 teaspoon vanilla extract Almond extract can provide an interesting twist.1 cup sour cream Plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used.For the Cinnamon Swirl1/2 cup brown sugar No substitutions recommended.2 teaspoons ground cinnamon No substitutions recommended.For the Topping1 cup powdered sugar Can use a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. Equipment Bundt panmixing bowlsElectric MixerwhiskRubber Spatula Method Step-By-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla and sour cream until smooth.Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the swirl mixture.Pour half of the batter into the Bundt pan, sprinkle half of the swirl mixture, and layer with remaining batter and swirl mixture.Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 15 minutes before removing from pan.Dust the top with powdered sugar before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure butter and eggs are room temperature for a smooth batter. Grease the pan well to prevent sticking, and avoid overmixing for best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
