This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of home baking. With its rich buttery texture and a perfect swirl of cinnamon and brown sugar, this cake is ideal for family gatherings, Sunday brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. Its nostalgic flavor will remind you of the warmth of Grandma’s kitchen, making it a must-try for anyone who loves sweet desserts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla creates an irresistible taste that will please everyone.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is friendly for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The addition of sour cream ensures each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with whipped cream for an extra treat.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This unique shape not only looks impressive but also helps in even cooking throughout the cake.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a fluffy batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your cake.
Ingredients
To make this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon Swirl Filling
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For Garnishing
- Powdered sugar
How to Make Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bundt Pan
Grease your bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent your cake from sticking once baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Ground cinnamon
Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat:
1. Softened butter
2. Granulated sugar
Mix until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with sour cream. Start with dry ingredients, mix until just combined.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Brown sugar
2. Ground cinnamon
Set aside for later use.
Step 8: Layer Batter in Bundt Pan
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over it. Add the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the swirl mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batter for marbling effects.
Step 9: Bake Your Cake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let your bundt cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish!
How to Serve Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
Serving this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is as delightful as baking it. This cake shines during family gatherings, brunches, or cozy afternoons with coffee. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced Bananas: Add sliced bananas on the side to enhance the cake’s rich flavors.
With Whipped Cream
- Lightly Sweetened Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for added richness.
- Cinnamon-Infused Cream: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon into the whipped cream to echo the cake’s flavor.
Drizzled with Icing
- Simple Glaze: Create a quick icing by mixing powdered sugar with water or milk for a sweet touch.
- Cinnamon Glaze: Add ground cinnamon to your glaze for an extra hint of spice that complements the cake.
Paired with Beverages
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee is perfect for balancing the sweetness of the cake.
- Herbal Tea: Consider herbal teas like chamomile or chai for a soothing pairing.
How to Perfect Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
To ensure your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips for success.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and a tender crumb.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Avoid packing it down to prevent a dense cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake 5–10 minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Before Removing from Pan: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. This prevents breakage.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some great options to consider.
- Ice Cream – Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds creamy sweetness that complements the spices in the cake.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delightful crunch alongside each slice.
- Chia Seed Pudding – A light and nutritious pudding made with almond milk offers a unique texture contrast.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses provides a savory element that pairs well with sweet desserts.
- Nut Mix – A bowl of roasted nuts adds crunch and nuttiness, creating an interesting textural contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a recipe like Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind:
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can result in a dense cake. Make sure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing leads to a tough cake. Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy crumb.
- Not Greasing the Pan Properly: A well-greased bundt pan ensures your cake releases easily. Use butter and flour or a non-stick spray for best results.
- Skipping the Toothpick Test: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Using Old Spices: Fresh spices make a difference in flavor. Always check the expiration date on your ground cinnamon and replace if necessary.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- You may also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for freshness.
Freezing Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
- Wrap the cooled cake tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm individual slices for about 10-15 seconds, depending on your microwave’s power.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat each slice for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for better results.
How do I ensure my cake is moist?
To keep your cake moist, avoid overbaking and use ingredients like sour cream as specified in this Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
How long does this cake last?
The Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen properly.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute plain yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.
Final Thoughts
This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe is perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Its rich flavors evoke cherished memories while offering versatility through customization options like adding nuts or adjusting spice levels. Try it today, and share it with loved ones!
Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake
Indulge in the delightful warmth of our Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe. This cake is a perfect blend of buttery goodness and a sweet cinnamon-brown sugar swirl, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings, brunches, or a cozy afternoon with coffee. Its nostalgic flavors evoke the comforts of home baking, ensuring that every slice is moist and tender thanks to the addition of sour cream. Whether served plain with a dusting of powdered sugar or accompanied by fresh fruit and whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- Powdered sugar for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients along with sour cream until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Layer half of the batter into the bundt pan, sprinkle half of the swirl mixture, then top with remaining batter and swirl mixture.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 15 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 183mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 73mg