Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is a sweet treat that’s soft, tender, and filled with a warm cinnamon-spiced swirl right in the middle. The cake itself is moist and lightly crumbly, and the cinnamon sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness and spice that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug. A simple vanilla glaze on top can make it extra special, but even without it, this cake is a stand-out snack any time of day.
I love making this cake when friends drop by for coffee or brunch because it smells amazing while it bakes and brings everyone together around the table. One little trick I use is to put extra cinnamon sugar in the middle for a thicker, gooey swirl—trust me, it’s worth it! It’s the kind of recipe where you can’t help but sneak a slice before it’s even cooled down.
The best way I like to enjoy Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake is warm, with a cup of coffee or tea, especially on a chilly morning. It’s simple but special, and it’s that little homemade touch that brightens my day. It’s the kind of cake that’s perfect for sharing, yet so good, I sometimes wish I didn’t have to share it at all.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Flour
- All-purpose flour is perfect here for that soft, tender crumb. You can swap for a gluten-free blend if needed, just check that it includes a binder like xanthan gum.
- Butter
- Use unsalted and softened butter to cream well with sugar. For a dairy-free version, try coconut oil, but the flavor will change slightly.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- These add moisture and slight tang to the cake. If you don’t have either, buttermilk or a mix of milk and lemon juice works well.
- Cinnamon swirl
- Brown sugar and cinnamon are key for that warm flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves if you want more spice.
- Glaze
- Powdered sugar and milk make a simple drizzle. For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a lighter one, add a bit more. Vanilla extract gives it a nice finishing touch.
How Do You Create a Beautiful Cinnamon Swirl Without Overmixing?
The swirl is the star here, so handling it right matters. Do this to get a clear, tasty ribbon of cinnamon in the cake:
- Spread half the batter evenly in the pan first—not too thick or thin.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix evenly over that batter layer.
- Top with the remaining batter, gently spread to cover.
- Use a knife or skewer to carefully swirl by dragging it through the layers in a few wide S-shapes—don’t stir or mix thoroughly.
- This gentle swirling helps keep distinct cinnamon ribbons without bleeding into the batter.
Going slow and gentle here keeps the swirl intact, making each slice both beautiful and delicious!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5-inch loaf pan – perfect size for this coffee cake and helps the swirl bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes creaming butter and sugar easy and smooth.
- Spatula – great for folding ingredients gently without overmixing.
- Knife or skewer – essential for creating that beautiful cinnamon swirl pattern inside the cake.
- Wire cooling rack – helps your cake cool evenly and keeps it from getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon swirl for crunch and a toasty flavor.
- Stir in ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for a chewy, fruity pop in each bite.
- Swap half the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice during fall for a seasonal twist you’ll love.
- Add a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a sweet and slightly tart contrast.
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Cake Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This coffee cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50–60 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely before glazing or slicing, which may take another 30 minutes. So plan for roughly 1.5 to 2 hours total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to make removing the cake easier later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream:
Add half of the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture and blend gently. Then add the sour cream or Greek yogurt and mix well. Finish by adding the rest of the dry ingredients and mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
6. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
Mix together brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until evenly combined.
7. Assemble the Cake Layers:
Spoon half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over this layer. Then gently spread the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer to cover it completely.
8. Create the Swirl Effect:
Using a knife or skewer, carefully swirl through the batter by dragging it in a few broad, gentle S-shaped motions to create the signature cinnamon swirl pattern.
9. Bake the Cake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
10. Cool and Glaze:
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing. If you’d like, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a simple glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your cinnamon swirl coffee cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect with your favorite cup of coffee or tea—enjoy!
Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake — FAQ
Substitutions, storage, make-ahead, and swirl technique.
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes—Greek yogurt is a great swap and adds similar moisture and tang. Use the same amount as sour cream (full-fat or 2% works best for tenderness).
How Should I Store Leftover Coffee Cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm slices briefly (10–15 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a low oven) for the best texture.
Can I Make This Coffee Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Bake up to 1 day in advance and keep tightly covered at room temperature (or refrigerate). Add the glaze just before serving to keep the top looking fresh and glossy.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Pronounced Cinnamon Swirl?
Layer, don’t stir. Spread half the batter in the pan, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar evenly, then dollop the remaining batter on top. Drag a knife or skewer through the layers 4–6 times in big figure-eights. Avoid overmixing so distinct ribbons remain.