There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. This homemade cinnamon swirl cake brings all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of a cinnamon roll—without the need to knead, rise, or roll dough. It’s the kind of dessert (or indulgent breakfast!) that’s perfect for weekends, holidays, or when you simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something sweet and heartwarming. The base of the cake is soft and tender, while the rich cinnamon-sugar topping melts into the batter as it bakes, creating beautiful swirls of flavor in every bite. And the final touch? A simple vanilla glaze that seeps into the warm cake, making each slice melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s easy to whip up with pantry staples and bakes in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving this after dinner with coffee or bringing it to a gathering, this cinnamon cake is a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade in the best possible way—because it is.
Ingredients (Serves 12):
Cake Base:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1½ cups milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup butter, melted
Cinnamon Topping:
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Vanilla Glaze:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or butter a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the melted butter last, then pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon to make the topping. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon topping over the cake batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture into the base. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make the glaze. Once the cake is done, drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and allow it to soak in slightly before serving.
Nutritional Insight & Dietary Considerations:
This cake is rich in carbohydrates and sugars, providing a quick energy boost. The butter and eggs contribute to its rich texture and offer fats and protein. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat due to its high sugar and fat content. This recipe is not suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets, but substitutions like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacements can be used to make it more inclusive.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Baked this cozy cinnamon cake and loved it? Tell us how it turned out or share your personal twist—maybe a drizzle of maple syrup or chopped pecans on top? We’d love to hear from you! Sharing your thoughts and experiences helps others try it too. Let’s keep the baking inspiration going!