Name: Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake to Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Offers the necessary structure while ensuring a tender crumb.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Provides leavening for a light and fluffy texture.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the cake.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Infuses the batter with warm, inviting spice.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Delivers rich flavor while contributing to a soft, moist crumb.); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the batter and adds volume.); 3 large Eggs (Binds ingredients together and increases richness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Rounds out the flavors.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Ensures a moist texture.); 1/2 cup Milk (Adds moisture; optional.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Creates the signature swirl.); 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Pairs perfectly with brown sugar for filling.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adds a light, sweet finish.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Helps create a smooth glaze.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Used in the glaze to echo the cake's flavors.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The scent of cinnamon wafting through the air instantly transports me to cozy afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. There’s something so comforting about a slice of Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, where a tender, buttery crumb meets rich ribbons of brown sugar and spice. This delightful cake isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a crowd-pleaser that left our family gathering raving about its irresistible flavor! Not only is this recipe incredibly simple to whip up, but it also stays moist for days, making it perfect for brunch or a cozy evening dessert. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a festive holiday centerpiece, I can’t wait for you to experience the joy this cake brings. Ready to get baking and fill your home with warmth? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Irresistible Aroma: The moment you begin baking, your kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting scent that makes everyone feel at home.
Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a skilled baker to master this recipe—it’s designed for simplicity and success!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a gluten-free option. Each twist adds a unique flair!
Prolonged Freshness: This cake remains moist for days, making it a delightful treat for spontaneous gatherings or your daily indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its beautiful presentation and rich flavor, this cake is guaranteed to impress family and friends during any occasion. Don’t miss out on a slice of joy—check out our tips for perfect bundt cakes.

Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Offers the necessary structure while ensuring a tender crumb.
Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light and fluffy texture.
Salt – Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the cake.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the batter with warm, inviting spice for that comforting touch.
Unsalted Butter – Delivers rich flavor while contributing to a soft, moist crumb.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and allows for proper butter creaming, which adds volume.
Eggs – Binds ingredients together while increasing richness and moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors, enhancing the cake’s warm profile.
Sour Cream – Ensures a moist texture and adds a slight tangy flavor.
Milk (optional) – Adds further moisture; can be substituted with buttermilk for a richer taste.

For the Cinnamon Swirl

Brown Sugar – Creates the signature swirl with its deep, caramel notes.
Ground Cinnamon – Pairs perfectly with brown sugar to craft a delightful filling.

For the Glaze (optional)

Powdered Sugar – Adds a light, sweet finish to the cake.
Milk – Helps create a smooth glaze; adjust for desired consistency.
Vanilla Extract – Used in the glaze to echo the cake’s flavors.

This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is just waiting to bring warmth and joy to your baking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously grease and flour a Bundt pan, ensuring every crevice is coated to prevent any sticking later. This step is critical for achieving the perfect release, allowing your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake to come out beautifully when it’s ready.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This process aerates the flour, ensuring your cake rises perfectly. Set this bowl aside, as we’ll mix these dry ingredients into the batter shortly, creating a lovely structure for the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. As you mix, the texture should become light and fluffy, which adds volume to your batter. This creaming process is essential for your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake to achieve its tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream & Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This step enriches your cake with moisture and flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Mix & Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. You want to maintain the delicate texture of your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, which benefits from just the right amount of mixing.

Step 6: Assemble the Swirl
Pour half of your batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon across the batter, which adds that signature swirl. Pour the remaining batter over the top, ensuring everything is layered nicely and ready for the swirling magic!

Step 7: Create the Marble Effect
Using a butter knife, gently swirl the batter within the pan, making smooth, back-and-forth motions. This will create a beautiful marbled effect, mixing the cinnamon goodness throughout your cake. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want to maintain distinct ribbons of cinnamon within your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.

Step 8: Bake
Place your Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on the time, as all ovens vary; you want that perfect golden-brown crust!

Step 9: Cool & Release
After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting period is essential for setting the texture. Once cooled slightly, invert the Bundt pan onto a wire rack, allowing the cake to release gently. Let it cool completely on the rack, which keeps the cake moist.

Step 10: Optional Glaze
For an elegant finish, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla in a small bowl. Drizzle this glaze over your completely cooled Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake, allowing it to cascade beautifully down the sides. This step adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making each slice irresistibly tempting.

Make Ahead Options

This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time while still enjoying a delicious dessert. You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. To do this, mix the dry ingredients separately and combine them with the wet ingredients right before baking. For even more convenience, the baked cake can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to let the cake cool completely before wrapping to maintain moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and add the glaze for that delightful finishing touch!

Expert Tips for Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature. This creates a smooth batter and helps incorporate air, leading to a nice rise.
Proper Pan Preparation: Grease and flour the Bundt pan thoroughly. This prevents sticking and ensures the lovely shape of your moist cinnamon swirl bundt cake comes out intact.
Use Fresh Spices: Opt for fresh ground cinnamon for an unmatched flavor. Old spices can diminish the warm aroma and taste of your cake.
Cooling Time Matters: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This prevents crumbling and helps maintain the cake’s moist texture.
Store Carefully: Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap to keep the cake fresh and moist for several days. Enjoy it throughout the week!

Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own, adding exciting twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to create a slightly tangy flavor and boost protein.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for a delightful crunch. The added texture complements the softness of the cake beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold mini chocolate chips into the batter for a rich, sweet twist. Each bite becomes a joyous surprise, making this cake perfect for special occasions.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family. You’ll find that it maintains the lovely texture just as well!
Spiced Upgrade: Sprinkle in some nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. This tiny change can elevate the cake to a new level of warmth and comfort.
Fruity Addition: Add a cup of fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a fruity burst. The mixture of sweetness and tartness brings a delightful freshness to each slice.
More Moisture: Instead of regular milk, try using coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor and extra moisture. It can create an exotic twist while still keeping the cake dreamy.
Glamorous Topping: Serve warm slices topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It’s the perfect way to impress your guests or treat yourself!

By swapping ingredients or adding new flavors, you’ll create a unique version of this delicious cinnamon swirl delight. Can’t wait to see what you come up with! For more inspiration on delightful variations, don’t hesitate to check out our tips for perfect bundt cakes.

What to Serve with Cozy Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Indulging in a slice of this warm, spiced cake opens up a world of delightful pairings that enhance your cozy experience.

Fresh Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee complements the cake’s cinnamon sweetness, making for the perfect morning or afternoon treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla enhances the warm spice, melting beautifully into the cake’s tender crumb for a heavenly dessert experience.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a bright, tangy contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness, making each bite feel lighter.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and enhances the cake’s moisture, making it even more indulgent.
Hot Tea: A soothing cup of tea brings a calming element, and herbal varieties like chai or cinnamon tea beautifully echo the cake’s flavors.
Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of warm caramel with crushed nuts elevates the dessert into a more decadent experience, perfect for celebrations.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs well, introducing a savory element that rounds out your dessert table.
Sparkling Cider: The light fizz of sparkling cider adds freshness and fun, making it a wonderful non-alcoholic drink choice for brunch gatherings.
Chai Latte: The spices in a rich chai latte harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon notes, creating a cozy pairing for chilly afternoons.
Chocolate Ganache: A decadent chocolate drizzle over the cake offers a luxurious finish, balancing the cake’s flavors with rich, dark sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate the wrapped cake for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring each piece stays fresh for future cravings.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw slices in the fridge overnight or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back the delightful taste of your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.

Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cinnamon should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Freshly ground cinnamon will elevate the flavor of your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake to new heights. Store-bought ground cinnamon can be used too, but ensure it’s not past its expiration date for optimal taste. If you happen to have different varieties, like Ceylon or Saigon cinnamon, both offer unique flavor profiles you might enjoy experimenting with.

How should I store leftover cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before enjoying so that it regains its lovely texture.

Can I freeze this bundt cake? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for later enjoyment. First, slice the cooled cake into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight, or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

What can I do if my cake sticks to the Bundt pan?
Very frustrating, I know! To avoid your cake sticking, be sure to thoroughly grease and flour your Bundt pan before pouring in the batter. Use a cooking spray or butter and then dust the pan with flour, tapping out any excess. If it still sticks, run a butter knife gently around the edges and give it a few taps on the counter to help dislodge it. You can also try chilling the pan briefly in the fridge to ease the release.

Is there a way to modify this recipe to be gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Check that the blend contains xanthan gum to help achieve the desired texture. This modification allows everyone to enjoy this delightful cake, regardless of dietary restrictions. Just follow the recipe as is, and you’ll be set!