Cinnamon Swirl Cake is a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of sweet cinnamon and sugar. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at breakfast, dessert, or as a delicious afternoon snack. With its moist texture and the lovely cinnamon swirl, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will impress anyone who takes a bite!
What Goes into This Cinnamon Swirl Cake
To create this delightful cake, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 1 3/4 cups (220 g) All-Purpose Flour
- 3/4 cup (150 g) Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup (113 g) Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) Whole Milk
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup (100 g) Brown Sugar (for swirl)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (for swirl)
Step-by-Step Cinnamon Swirl Cake Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get baking! Follow these steps:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
-
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
-
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt alternately with the milk. Start with a little flour, then add some milk, and continue until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
-
Pour half of the cake batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
-
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this mixture over the batter in the pan.
-
Add the remaining batter on top, smoothing it out. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
-
Using a knife, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. This will create beautiful swirls when it bakes.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
-
Slice the cake and enjoy it warm or at room temperature – each bite will be filled with a delightful cinnamon flavor!
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Cake
Serving your Cinnamon Swirl Cake is simple, and it can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas:
- Slice the cake and serve it on a beautiful platter, maybe dusted with a little powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
- Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- For a more decadent treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Cake
To make sure your baking goes smoothly, here are a few handy tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This will help them mix together more easily.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your cake fluffy.
- Variations: You can add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the cinnamon swirl for added crunch, or even replace some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor twist!
Cinnamon Swirl Cake FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture might be denser.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it if you want it to last longer.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Swirl Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
There you have it! A fantastic recipe for a homey and delicious Cinnamon Swirl Cake. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and indulge in the warm, sweet, and cinnamon-laden goodness. Happy baking!