If you adore the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, this Cinnamon Swirl Cake is calling your name! Picture a soft, moist cake with a gorgeous swirl of cinnamon weaving through every bite. It’s the perfect treat for a cozy day or a delightful addition to any gathering. Best of all, it’s easy to whip up with everyday ingredients!
In this article, I’ll share everything you need to know before baking—think fascinating cinnamon history, pro tips for success, and, of course, the full recipe details at the end. Ready to get hooked? Keep reading!
Why Cinnamon Steals the Show
Cinnamon isn’t just a spice; it’s a flavor-packed superstar! Did you know it’s been treasured for thousands of years? Ancient Egyptians used it in embalming, and in medieval Europe, it was so valuable it was worth more than gold. Today, we love it for its sweet-spicy kick and bonus health perks—like its anti-inflammatory properties. In this cake, cinnamon creates a stunning swirl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Pro Tips for Baking the Perfect Cinnamon Swirl Cake
Before we get to the recipe, here are some must-know tips to ensure your cake is a total hit:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter, eggs, and milk sit out until they’re at room temp. This helps everything blend smoothly for a tender texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the flour goes in, mix just until combined—overmixing can make the cake dense.
- Master the Swirl: When adding the cinnamon filling, swirl gently with a knife or skewer. A few passes give you that perfect marbled look without blending it all together.
- Test for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check the cake at 45 minutes. A toothpick in the center should come out clean.
These tricks will set you up for a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and picture-perfect!
Storage and Serving Ideas
Wondering how to enjoy this cake later? Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Chill it for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp when you’re ready to dig in.
For an extra treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure bliss!
Recipe Details: Cinnamon Swirl Cake
Now, here’s what you’ve been waiting for—the full recipe! Scroll down for the ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 125 g (½ cup) soft butter (room temperature)
- 120 g (½ cup) sugar
- 3 eggs (size M, room temperature)
- 120 ml (½ cup) milk (room temperature)
- 225 g (1¾ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Tip: Room-temp ingredients make a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 50 g (¼ cup) brown sugar
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp flour
- 30 g (2 tbsp) melted butter
Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm twist!
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
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Preheat and Prep
- Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) for conventional ovens or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens.
- Grease and flour a 10 x 20 cm loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
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Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth.
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Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
- Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter in a small bowl until it’s a spreadable paste.
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Assemble the Layers
- Pour one-third of the batter into the pan and smooth it out.
- Spread half the cinnamon filling over the batter, keeping it centered.
- Add another third of the batter, then the rest of the cinnamon filling.
- Top with the final third of the batter and smooth it.
- Swirl lightly with a knife or skewer for that marbled effect.
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Bake and Cool
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack.
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Dust and Serve
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar. Slice and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is more than a recipe—it’s a little slice of heaven! With its buttery base and irresistible cinnamon swirl, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy baking! 😍