If you’re looking for a cozy, impressive bake that steals the show at any gathering, this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine a buttery, golden cake laced with ribbons of warm cinnamon and sugar, finished with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly makes your kitchen feel like the coziest place on earth. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a nostalgic treat, this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake will quickly become your go-to recipe.

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up this showstopper, but each ingredient plays a starring role in the taste and texture that make the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake unforgettable. From the richness of the butter and sour cream to the warmth of the cinnamon, every bite shines with simple goodness.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and ensures your Bundt cake has just the right tenderness.
Baking soda: Helps give the cake a light rise, preventing it from becoming too dense.
Baking powder: Adds even more lift, making each slice deliciously fluffy.
Unsalted butter: Infuses richness and moisture into every bite; be sure it’s softened for easy creaming!
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that perfectly golden crust.
Eggs: Binds ingredients and adds to the cake’s soft, airy texture.
Vanilla extract: Brings a gorgeous aroma and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Sour cream: The secret to a super-moist, tender crumb—don’t skip it!
Chopped walnuts (optional): For a hint of crunch and a nutty note—feel free to leave these out if you prefer a classic version.
Granulated sugar (for swirl): Works with cinnamon to create that irresistible marbled center.
Ground cinnamon: Warm, cozy, and essential for that signature swirl everyone loves.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, generously grease your Bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. This prevents sticking and ensures your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake comes out beautifully intact.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This step is crucial—it incorporates air, giving your cake that lovely rise and tender texture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then mix in the vanilla extract for that inviting aroma.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Whisk well to evenly distribute the leaveners, ensuring each bite of your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake bakes up evenly and perfectly fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with scoops of sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently after each addition. This method keeps your batter smooth and prevents overmixing, so your cake stays tender. If you’re adding walnuts, gently fold them in at the end.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl

In a small bowl, mix the additional ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Spoon half of the cake batter into your prepared Bundt pan and smooth it out. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over this layer, then carefully dollop the remaining batter on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together for that gorgeous marbled effect—just a few figure-eights will do!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The entire kitchen will smell like a cozy bakery—it’s hard to wait, but patience is worth it!

Step 7: Cool and Unmold

Let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. Gently remove the pan—it should slip off smoothly if you’ve greased it well. Let the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake cool completely before slicing and serving. This rest period makes every slice picture-perfect.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Garnishes

The finishing touches can turn your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake into a true centerpiece. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy elegance, or you can drizzle it with a simple glaze—just whisk together a cup of powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of milk or cream until it pours smoothly. For a festive twist, scatter a few more chopped walnuts or a pinch of extra cinnamon on top.

Side Dishes

Pair your cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat. On the lighter side, a bowl of mixed berries or a drizzle of Greek yogurt makes a lovely complement and adds a pop of color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, slice the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake and arrange the pieces in a circle on a platter, letting everyone admire those beautiful swirls. For brunch, try cutting it into cubes and threading them onto skewers with fresh fruit. Want to surprise guests? Serve individual slices with a sidecar of cinnamon-infused honey for drizzling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to three days—just make sure it’s not in direct sunlight or near a heat source.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake beyond a few days, it freezes beautifully! Wrap the cooled cake (whole or sliced) tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw it on the counter before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring out the fresh-baked flavors, warm individual slices briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If you have time, you can also reheat slices in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. Either way, you’ll revive that just-baked warmth and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. It will still create a moist crumb, though the cake might have a slight tang. Either one works perfectly in the recipe.

Do I have to use walnuts?

The walnuts are completely optional. If you’re not a fan of nuts or need to avoid them for allergies, simply leave them out. The Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is just as delicious with or without the extra crunch.

How do I prevent my Bundt cake from sticking?

Properly greasing your Bundt pan is key—use a generous layer of butter or non-stick spray, and pay extra attention to all the crevices. You can even dust the pan with a little flour after greasing for extra insurance against sticking.

Can I make this recipe in a regular cake pan?

While the classic look relies on a Bundt pan, you can bake the batter in two 9-inch round cake pans or a 9×13-inch sheet pan. Just adjust the bake time to 25-35 minutes and keep an eye on the cake as it finishes. The swirls might not be as dramatic, but the flavor will be spot on.

What’s the best way to get a perfect swirl?

After layering the batter and cinnamon-sugar, use a thin knife or skewer to make gentle swirls—big, loose figure-eights are ideal. Avoid overmixing; you want a defined, pretty pattern rather than a blended batter.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting, beautiful, and downright delicious, you simply must try making this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake. It’s the kind of recipe that wins hearts, sparks memories, and never disappoints. Fire up your oven, invite over a friend or two, and enjoy the little moment of magic this cake brings to your kitchen!

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 8 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 Bundt Cake 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake that is moist, aromatic, and perfect for any occasion. This cake features a tender crumb with a sweet cinnamon swirl running through it, topped with a hint of crunch from walnuts.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Layer Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and swirl gently with a knife.
Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American