Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe

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Warm, soft, and drizzled with a luscious glaze, this Cinnamon Swirl Cake recipe is a comforting hug in dessert form. It captures all the flavors of your favorite cinnamon rolls, but with the ease of baking a single-layer cake. The gooey cinnamon sugar ribbons melt into a moist, buttery crumb, creating the perfect balance of sweet, spice, and everything nice.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat, this cake fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar. It’s simple to make and even easier to fall in love with—no yeast, no waiting, just mix, swirl, bake, and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe

This cake combines the decadence of a bakery-style cinnamon roll with the simplicity of a homemade coffee cake. No rising time needed, and it’s ready in under an hour. The cinnamon sugar swirl seeps into every bite, giving you those caramelized edges and a warm, spiced interior. And that glaze? It’s the finishing touch that brings the whole cake together.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, baking for a holiday, or just want something cozy on a weekday, this recipe hits the sweet spot every time.

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Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, this cake is just as good the next day. You can make it a day ahead and keep it covered at room temperature. The flavors develop even more, and a quick 10-second zap in the microwave brings back that fresh-baked warmth. You can also freeze it without the glaze and drizzle it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

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Ingredients for the Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe

Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Swirl Cake plays a crucial role in creating its rich, moist, and flavorful profile. Here’s why each one matters:

• All-purpose flour – The base that gives the cake its structure.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and balances the cinnamon.
• Brown sugar – Adds depth and caramel-like flavor to the cinnamon swirl.
• Baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Milk – Keeps the crumb soft and tender.
• Eggs – Provide richness and help bind the batter.
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with a warm note.
• Butter – Adds richness and that classic buttery taste.
• Ground cinnamon – The star spice that delivers warmth and aroma.
• Powdered sugar – For the glaze that finishes everything off.

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How To Make the Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a square 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter. Pour the wet into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, sprinkle half the cinnamon mixture, then repeat with the remaining batter and cinnamon. Swirl through the layers with a knife for that marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Glaze It

Whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a drop of vanilla to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the warm cake before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Cinnamon Swirl Cake

This cake is incredibly versatile and easy to serve. Enjoy it warm with coffee in the morning, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert, or wrap up a slice as a sweet afternoon snack. It makes about 9 generous squares, perfect for sharing at brunch, holidays, or cozy weekends.

To store, cover the cake tightly and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it and warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. You can also freeze the cake (without the glaze) for up to 2 months. Just thaw and drizzle fresh glaze before serving.

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Swirl Cake?

Fresh Fruit Salad

Bright and juicy fruits balance the rich sweetness of the cake.

Hot Coffee or Latte

The warm spices in the cake pair perfectly with a strong cup of coffee.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes this cake feel extra special.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop melts beautifully over the warm cake for an indulgent dessert.

Spiced Chai or Tea

The warm spice notes in chai echo the cinnamon flavor for a cozy match.

Yogurt Parfait

A tangy Greek yogurt parfait adds texture and keeps things light if you’re having it for breakfast.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different size baking pan?
Yes! A 9×9-inch pan gives thicker slices, while a 9×13-inch pan makes thinner ones. Just adjust the baking time slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use a good-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but it still turns out delicious.

Does it need to be refrigerated?
Not right away. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double everything and bake it in a 9×13-inch dish. Perfect for crowds or holidays.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon?
Use a butter knife or skewer to gently drag through the layers in a figure-eight motion. Don’t over-mix or you’ll lose the swirl effect.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add nuts or raisins? Did you go heavy on the glaze?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting treats and cozy bakes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite comfort dessert!

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Cake is pure comfort in every slice. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for so many occasions—from breakfast to dessert. With its gooey cinnamon layers and sweet glaze, it’s the kind of cake you’ll want to bake over and over again. Simple enough for beginners and impressive enough to serve guests, it’s a true keeper.

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