Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is a cozy, bakery-style treat that captures all the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon rolls—without the kneading, rising, or fuss. Soft, buttery cake is layered with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a silky vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. It’s an easy recipe perfect for weekend baking, quick breakfast ideas, or satisfying dessert cravings. With everyday pantry ingredients and simple steps, it’s a foolproof option for anyone looking for sweet food ideas, brunch inspiration, or indulgent yet easy dinner desserts.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
¾ cup sour cream
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅔ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
5. For the swirl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until paste-like.
6. Pour half the batter into the pan, then dollop half the cinnamon mixture and swirl with a knife.
7. Add remaining batter and repeat the swirl step with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. While warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze.
10. Drizzle glaze over the warm cake and let it set before slicing.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients for the best batter consistency.
Don’t over-swirl the cinnamon filling or you’ll lose the beautiful layers.
Glaze while the cake is warm so it melts into the top and keeps it moist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: cinnamon swirl cake, easy dessert, quick breakfast, cinnamon roll cake, brunch ideas