Description

This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is a soft, moist cake infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with a sweet glaze that makes every bite irresistible. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a tender crumb base, a delicious cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a simple glaze, this cake is reminiscent of a cinnamon roll but much easier to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a gathering or just a cozy treat at home, this cake is sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

• For the 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
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• For the Glaze:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cake Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder.
Add the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Slowly stir in the melted butter, ensuring the batter is smooth and well-mixed.
Pour the Batter:

Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Make the Cinnamon Topping:

In a separate bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until it forms a thick, paste-like consistency.
Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter.
Swirl the Cinnamon Topping:

Using a knife, swirl the cinnamon mixture into the cake batter. Gently drag the knife through the batter in a swirling motion to create beautiful cinnamon ribbons throughout the cake.
Bake the Cake:

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.
Prepare the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, covering it evenly for a sweet finish.
Serve:

Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this cake warm or at room temperature.

Tips and Conclusion

Add some crunch: For added texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl mixture before baking.
Make ahead: This cake can be made the day before and reheated slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.
Add a cream cheese glaze: For an extra rich flavor, swap out the regular glaze with a cream cheese glaze by adding softened cream cheese to the powdered sugar and milk mixture.
Storage: Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is the perfect sweet treat to share with family and friends. With its tender base, rich cinnamon swirl, and sweet glaze, it’s a delightful alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls and is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a dessert after dinner, this cake is a must-try for cinnamon lovers!