When the cozy scent of cinnamon drifts through the air, you know something delicious is on the horizon. That’s exactly what happened in my kitchen one rainy afternoon as I decided to whip up a Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. This delightful treat is not just another dessert — it’s a hug in cake form, swirling with sweet brown sugar and aromatic cinnamon that instantly warms the heart and soul.

Perfect for brunch gatherings, a delightful afternoon tea, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee after a long day, this bundt cake strikes the right balance between indulgence and ease. As I mixed the fluffy batter and layered the rich cinnamon mixture, I couldn’t help but feel excited for the transformation happening in the oven. Don’t let its impressive look fool you; the preparation is straightforward, making it the ideal dessert for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. Join me in creating this moist, buttery slice of joy that promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any table!

Why is Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake so beloved?

Warmth and comfort come together in every slice, making this cake a go-to choice for any gathering. Aromatic spices and sweet brown sugar create a deliciously inviting experience that will captivate your guests. Versatile enough to suit any occasion, it’s perfect for brunch or afternoon tea. With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner bakers can achieve this stunning dessert. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving hits.

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Ingredients

Get ready to create a mouthwatering treat!

For the Cake Batter
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the cake. No substitutes needed.
• Baking Powder – The primary leavening agent for a light, fluffy texture.
• Baking Soda – Helps to further tenderize the crumb and balance acidity.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; creaming helps in aerating the batter.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and contributes to texture when creamed with butter.
• Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; incorporate one at a time for stability.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Sour Cream – Adds moistness and a slight tang; can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
• Milk – Loosens the batter for easy mixing and contributes to a moist texture.

For the Cinnamon Swirl
• Brown Sugar – Forms the base of the cinnamon swirl, adding a deeper molasses flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the swirl with aromatic warmth.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Used in the glaze for sweetness and a smooth finish; must be sifted before mixing.
• Milk – Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a touch of flavor to the glaze.

Ready to take on this delightful Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake? Let’s get baking!

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a bundt pan. This step ensures your cake releases easily after baking, preventing any sticky situations.
Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking them together to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Set this mixture aside for later.
Cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This aeration is key for a tender cake!
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth, ensuring a delicious flavor throughout.
Mix in the flour mixture gradually, alternating with sour cream and milk. Start and end with the flour mixture to keep the batter moist and well combined; mix just until no dry streaks remain.
Combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, creating a sweet swirl sent to entice your taste buds. This will add a delightful contrast to the cake’s richness.
Layer half of the cake batter into your prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly over this layer, then top with the remaining batter, spreading it carefully to avoid mixing the layers too much.
Swirl the two layers gently with a knife, creating mesmerizing patterns throughout the batter. This adds an eye-catching look to each slice.
Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the tempting aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes!
Cool the cake for about 10 minutes once it’s out of the oven. Then, invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps set its structure.
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to prepare your glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bundt cake for that final sweet touch.

Optional: For extra decoration, sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?

Indulge in delightful pairings that elevate your bundt cake experience to new heights.

Fresh Berries: Add a burst of natural sweetness with juicy strawberries and blueberries to contrast the cake's richness. They brighten each slice!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the cake's buttery texture. The smooth cream pops with flavor!
Coffee: The boldness of freshly brewed coffee brings out the warm spices in the cake, making each bite more satisfying and comforting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent experience that invites pure joy with every spoonful.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top not only enhances presentation but amplifies the beloved warmth of the flavors.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in a cup of spiced chai create a delightful contrast to the sweetness and spice of the cake, perfect for cozy afternoons.
Chopped Nuts: Crunchy walnuts or pecans add a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that complements the cake's softness beautifully. They also add a rustic touch!
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra layer of flavor, a light cream cheese frosting provides a tangy contrast to the sweet cinnamon, making every slice indulgent.
Peanut Butter Drizzle: A subtle drizzle of peanut butter adds an unexpected twist, pairing wonderfully with cinnamon and offering a rich nutty taste with each bite.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and moist, ready to enjoy at a moment's notice.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, slice the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving. This will bring back the cake’s delightful freshness!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better emulsification.
Proper Greasing: Use a generous amount of butter or non-stick spray to grease the bundt pan thoroughly. This helps the cake release beautifully without sticking.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the flour; this can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture in your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.
Chill the Swirl: For an even richer flavor, consider letting the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture sit for a few minutes before adding it into the cake.
Cool Completely: Give your cake ample time to cool before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the cake, keeping the beautiful finish intact.
Classic Pairing: Serve slices of your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful creation with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk for a tasty, dairy-free version that retains moisture.
Nutty Delight: Add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy surprise that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Spicy Kick: Toss a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon mixture for a surprising warm kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Fruit Infusion: Mix in a cup of diced apples or pears for natural sweetness and moisture, creating delicious pockets of fruit in every slice.
Chocolate Swirl: Replace some of the brown sugar with cocoa powder in the cinnamon mix for a rich chocolatey twist that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Zesty Upgrade: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the overall flavor.
Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the glaze for an earthy sweetness that adds depth to your cake.
Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend, keeping in mind that baking times may vary, but the results will still be delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cakes are a dream for meal prep haulers! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together, then covering the bowl tightly and refrigerating. This will save you time on busy mornings or during bustling weekends. The cinnamon sugar swirl can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To ensure the cake stays moist and delicious, avoid overmixing the batter before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan, swirl in the cinnamon mixture, and let the oven work its magic—your guests will be none the wiser about the prep time!

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is the best option for this recipe as it provides the structure and body needed for a great cake. There's no need for substitutes here, as the balance of ingredients has been designed for optimal results.

How should I store the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Keep your delicious bundt cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'll be enjoying it later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps to retain the cake's moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze slices of the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake?
Yes, you can freeze slices of this delightful bundt cake! Slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if my bundt cake sticks to the pan?
To avoid this issue, make sure you generously grease the bundt pan with butter or a non-stick baking spray before adding the batter. If it does stick, gently run a thin knife around the edges to help release it. You can also try cooling it in the pan for a few minutes longer before inverting it.

Can I substitute the sour cream in the recipe?
Very! If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk. Both options will keep your cake moist and add a slight tang, just like the sour cream would.