Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is a delightful treat bursting with warm cinnamon flavor and a tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, it combines a rich cake base with a sweet cinnamon swirl and a smooth vanilla glaze. Simple to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk (for glaze)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over it. Pour the remaining batter on top.
- Step 7: Use a butter knife to gently swirl the batter and cinnamon mixture in a figure-eight motion to create a marbled effect.
- Step 8: Bake the cake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then invert it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.
- Step 10: To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moistness, make sure your sour cream is fresh and at room temperature before mixing.
- You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the milk called for in the recipe for a richer texture.
- Consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon to 3 teaspoons in the swirl mixture.
- Use a silicone spatula to gently fold ingredients and avoid overworking the batter, which helps keep the cake tender.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes, you can use a regular 9×13-inch cake pan, but baking time may vary slightly. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes when using a different pan.
Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness, but you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt if needed.
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Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Moist Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake offers a tender crumb infused with warm cinnamon flavor swirled beautifully throughout the cake, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze that adds a perfect touch of sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or any gathering.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a Bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for layering into the batter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cake.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed in before adding the next. Then add the sour cream and vanilla extract to enrich the batter and improve moisture.
- Combine Flour and Milk: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour. Mix gently just until combined to avoid toughening the batter.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will provide the signature swirl throughout the cake.
- Layer Batter and Cinnamon Sugar: Pour half of the batter into the Bundt pan. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter to trap the swirl inside.
- Create the Swirl: Using a butter knife, gently swirl the batter in a figure-eight motion to incorporate the cinnamon mixture without blending it completely.
- Bake the Cake: Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check doneness—it should come out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes to set, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: Mix the powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the fully cooled cake for an added layer of sweetness and shine before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake tender.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the swirl to 3 teaspoons.
- The glaze can be thickened or thinned by adjusting the milk quantity for desired consistency.
- Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cinnamon swirl cake,bundt cake,cinnamon cake,vanilla glaze cake,moist cake recipe

