Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that’s soft, tender, and filled with a generous swirl of cinnamon sugar goodness. The cake’s crumbly topping adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch, making every bite a cozy little celebration. It’s a perfect companion for your morning coffee or a lovely snack in the afternoon.
I love making this coffee cake when I want something that feels special but isn’t too fussy. The cinnamon swirl peeking through the moist cake is always what everyone talks about first! One tip I’ve found is to spread the cinnamon sugar mix evenly so you get that beautiful, even swirl in every slice. It’s such a simple detail that makes a big difference.
Serving this cake slightly warm is my favorite – just a quick zap in the microwave and it feels fresh from the oven. Sometimes I like to add a little cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of glaze on top for an extra touch, but honestly, it’s so good on its own that it hardly needs anything else. This cozy cake always brings smiles and feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and tenderness. If you prefer dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a similar texture.
Sour Cream: This keeps the cake moist and soft. If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt works well, or buttermilk as a tangy substitute.
Cinnamon Swirl: Ground cinnamon is key for that warm flavor. If you want a twist, you can mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. Brown sugar gives the swirl a deep sweetness.
Crumb Topping: The crumb adds texture and extra sweetness. Use cold butter here to get those perfect clumps. For a lighter topping, you can reduce sugar or swap half for oats.
How Do You Create a Beautiful Cinnamon Swirl?
Getting a distinct swirl without mixing everything together can be tricky. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Spread half the batter evenly in the pan first.
- Add the cinnamon mixture in an even layer on top.
- Pour the rest of the batter gently over it without pressing down.
- Spoon the remaining cinnamon mix on top and use a knife or skewer to lightly swirl through the layers. Don’t overdo it—just a few gentle twists create a nice marbled effect.
This technique keeps the cinnamon distinct and makes every slice show off that signature swirl you see in the picture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 10-inch Bundt or tube pan – great for even baking and creating that classic coffee cake shape.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a few for batter, swirl, and crumb topping mixes.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy.
- Rubber spatula – perfect for folding ingredients gently without deflating your batter.
- Butter knife or skewer – use it to swirl the cinnamon mixture smoothly through the batter.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Swap the cinnamon in the swirl for pumpkin pie spice during fall for a cozy seasonal twist.
- Stir in fresh or frozen berries to the batter for bursts of fruity flavor and a colorful look.
Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Crumb Topping:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
How Much Time Will You Need?
This coffee cake takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow 15 minutes for the cake to cool before removing it from the pan, and then cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or a 10-inch tube pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients for the Cake:
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla:
Beat in eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter until well combined.
7. Prepare the Crumb Topping:
In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and flour until crumbly.
8. Assemble the Cake:
Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter. Spread the remaining batter on top.
9. Create the Swirl:
Spoon the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top and use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it through the batter, creating a marbled effect.
10. Add the Crumb Topping:
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the top of the batter.
11. Bake:
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Cool and Serve:
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy with your favorite coffee or tea!
Can I Use Plain Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes! Plain yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will keep the cake moist. Use the same amount and make sure it’s full-fat for best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Coffee Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a warm, fresh taste.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might vary slightly but it will still be delicious.
What’s the Best Way to Swirl the Cinnamon Mixture?
After layering the batter and cinnamon mixture, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl with slow, shallow motions. Avoid over-mixing to keep the swirl distinct and pretty.
