Here is the full recipe profile for your Cinnamon Swirl Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, structured with all the requested sections and no wide line breaks:
Cinnamon Swirl Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Introduction
This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is a soft, buttery dessert bursting with warm cinnamon flavor and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. With a texture similar to coffee cake and flavors reminiscent of cinnamon rolls, this crowd-pleaser is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. It’s quick to prepare and comforting in every bite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cinnamon has long been cherished in baking traditions around the world. In Western cultures, especially American and European, cinnamon-based baked goods such as cinnamon rolls and streusel cakes have strong associations with comfort, home, and holidays. This cake draws inspiration from both cinnamon rolls and classic sheet cakes—marrying simplicity with indulgence in a way that brings people together, whether at a church potluck, family brunch, or holiday gathering.
Ingredients Quantity
Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (113g)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Optional Additions
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: for crunch in the swirl
- A pinch of nutmeg: for added spice complexity
- Maple extract: replace or complement vanilla for a deeper flavor
- A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top after baking: for added texture
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a tender crumb
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and frosting
- Swirl gently with a knife or skewer—overmixing can muddy the pattern
- Cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
- Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Then slowly mix in the melted butter until a smooth batter forms.
- In another bowl, make the cinnamon swirl by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until creamy and uniform.
- Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter, then gently swirl with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Pour the remaining cake batter on top and repeat the swirling process with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Slowly mix in milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Spread frosting over the cooled cake and serve.
Description
This Cinnamon Swirl Cake is moist and tender with rich ribbons of brown sugar cinnamon running through every bite. The cream cheese frosting adds a silky, tangy finish that perfectly complements the warmth of the cinnamon. The marbled design adds a visual appeal that makes it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
Conclusion
This cake is the definition of cozy comfort baking. With its layers of cinnamon goodness and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for breakfast treats, tea time, or dessert tables. Simple to make and impossible to resist, it’s a guaranteed hit for all occasions.
Recommendation
Serve slightly warm with a hot cup of coffee or chai for maximum enjoyment. You can even skip the frosting for a less sweet breakfast-style cake or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich in flavor, this cake can be enjoyed mindfully. Try reducing the sugar slightly or using Greek yogurt in place of some of the butter in the cake batter. You’ll still enjoy the satisfaction of a treat without the guilt. Baking from scratch also means full control over ingredients, giving you the freedom to create a balance of flavor and wellness.
Would you like a printable card or a version adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets?