If you love a cozy, aromatic cake that dazzles with both flavor and good looks, this Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is about to become your go-to treat. With tender, buttery crumbs and ripples of sweet cinnamon sugar twirling through every slice, it brings a nostalgic bake shop warmth right to your kitchen. Whether it’s for a holiday brunch or a morning with friends, this cake never fails to impress—with just the right balance of sugar, spice, and comfort in every single bite.

Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its pantry staples, all working together to create something irresistible. Each ingredient has a purpose, bringing signature flavors, lift, or that perfect swirl to your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.

Brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel notes that beautifully complement the cinnamon swirl.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The versatile base that gives the cake its classic, sturdy crumb.
Baking powder (1 ½ tsp): Helps the cake rise and gives it a lovely, light texture.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Works with the sour cream for extra tenderness and height.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors, giving balance to the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp in batter, 1 tbsp in swirl): The star spice—warming, cozy, and deeply aromatic.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides richness and unbeatable moisture.
Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the cake and creates a fine, even crumb.
Large eggs (3): Bind all the ingredients and contribute to that light, fluffy structure.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavor with sweet, floral notes.
Sour cream (1 cup): Makes the crumb luxuriously tender and keeps the cake moist for days.
Packed brown sugar (½ cup, for swirl): Creates that signature gooey, caramelized swirl.
Powdered sugar: For that perfect, snowy dusting before serving—a must for extra charm.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prep & Preheat

Start by getting your oven nice and hot—preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Then, take a moment to generously grease your 10-cup Bundt pan, making sure to cover every nook and cranny so your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake releases easily later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. This blend creates the perfect foundation, ensuring the cake is fluffy and fragrant.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with a mixer for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is fluffy and almost pale. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract for a touch of warmth.

Step 4: Alternate Wet & Dry Ingredients

Now comes the science of a tender crumb: mix in a third of the dry mixture, followed by half the sour cream. Repeat—ending with the last third of the flour. Use a gentle hand and don’t overmix! This keeps the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake soft and dreamy.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together ½ cup packed brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. This magical combo brings that classic swirl alive and perfumes your kitchen while baking.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl

Pour half the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter, spreading it evenly. Pour in the remaining batter, then top with the last of the cinnamon-sugar. Use a knife to swirl it all together—three or four gentle figure-eight motions are enough. This is where the marbled magic happens!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack. The anticipation is worth it!

Step 8: Serve with Love

Let your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake cool completely, then finish with a generous dusting of powdered sugar. The pretty pattern and cinnamon scent are positively irresistible—slice it up and watch everyone’s faces light up.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake

Garnishes

This cake shines with a snowy layer of powdered sugar, but you could also drizzle a simple vanilla glaze or top with candied pecans for a little crunch. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top makes it look and smell extra special.

Side Dishes

The Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake loves the company of classic pairings. Serve with fresh berries for a pop of color, or with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream when you want a true treat. A dollop of whipped cream alongside a hot cup of coffee is near perfection, especially at brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake and drizzling each piece with warm caramel sauce for a show-stopping dessert. For holiday tables, surround the cake with cinnamon sticks and orange slices. Or, turn leftover slices into French toast—a decadent breakfast twist that brings out even more of those gorgeous cinnamon notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Its moisture and flavor only get better on day two, making it an easy make-ahead bake for gatherings or busy mornings.

Freezing

The Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

If you like your cake a bit warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or until just warmed through. For best texture, avoid overheating so it stays soft and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt is a great substitute and will give your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake the same moisture and subtle tang you expect from sour cream.

What if I don’t have a Bundt pan?

You can bake this cake in a regular tube pan or a loaf pan, though baking times will vary and the beautiful swirl may not be quite as showy. Keep an eye on doneness!

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Thoroughly greasing every curve and corner of your Bundt pan is essential. Use softened butter or a baking spray with flour to ensure an easy release every time.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the swirl?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of raisins can be added to the swirl mixture for extra texture and flavor in your Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Try replacing the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The result is still deliciously moist, though the texture may be a tad different.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a true crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make but delivers on every front, the Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake is it. I can’t wait for you to bake it, slice it open, and share that first swirl-filled piece with someone you love—don’t be surprised if they beg for the recipe!