Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

If you have been searching for a delightfully moist and flavorful dessert to brighten your day, look no further than this Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe. With its tender crumb, rich buttery notes, and that warm embrace of cinnamon, this cake strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Every bite offers a luscious texture and just the right amount of sweetness, making it an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion, from casual coffee breaks to festive gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking an unforgettable cake, and this Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe is no exception. Each ingredient plays its part in creating the cake’s moist texture, beautiful crumb, and inviting aroma.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure, ensuring the cake holds together with a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake to perfection without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Leavens the cake for lightness and height.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise and balances acidity for a soft crumb.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every ingredient shine.
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice, the heart of this buttery cinnamon cake experience.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a fluffy texture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor, complementing the cinnamon with subtle sweetness.
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt): Keeps the cake moist and adds slight tanginess for balance.
• ½ cup whole milk: Provides moisture, making the batter smooth and easy to work with.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar: Used in the cinnamon sugar topping to create that irresistible glaze.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Sprinkled over the topping for extra spice and aroma.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Drizzled on top to add a buttery sheen and help caramelize the sugar.

How to Make Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution of flavors and proper cake texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One by one, add the eggs, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth texture. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a sweet and fragrant essence.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet

Alternately add the dry mixture and the sour cream mixed with milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can make the cake tough.

Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan

Transfer your batter into a prepared cake pan—greased and floured or lined with parchment paper—to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 6: Create Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix the remaining granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar evenly over the cake batter, then drizzle the melted unsalted butter on top to add a golden, buttery finish that crisps up while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step locks in the flavors and gives you that perfect rise.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely allows the cake to set, making it easier to slice and serving the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

Garnishes

To take your Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe to the next level, consider garnishing with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce, or a handful of toasted nuts for some crunch. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs wonderfully with the warm cinnamon notes.

Side Dishes

This cake shines as the centerpiece, but pairing it with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries complements the cinnamon flavors wonderfully. For a cozy brunch, serve alongside a steaming mug of coffee or spiced chai tea to make the moment extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cake in rustic slices on vintage plates for a charming, homey vibe, or cut into small squares for a dessert buffet. You can also stack layers with cream cheese frosting between them to transform it into a stunning layered cinnamon cake. The possibilities to impress are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your buttery cinnamon cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature for two days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigeration is recommended, keeping it moist and delicious for up to one week.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will stay fresh for up to three months frozen. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s moistness and buttery aroma, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low-temperature oven wrapped loosely in foil. This restores that freshly baked feel with minimal effort.

FAQs

Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt in this Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe?

Yes, plain yogurt works perfectly as a substitute for sour cream here. It adds the same tangy moisture needed to keep the cake tender without altering the flavor significantly.

Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?

Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt level more precisely. However, if you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe accordingly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture right.

What if I don’t have ground cinnamon? Can I use cinnamon sticks?

Ground cinnamon works best for even distribution throughout the cake. While cinnamon sticks add flavor infusions when simmered, they won’t incorporate the same way in baked cakes, so stick with ground cinnamon when possible.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a freshly baked Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe, perfectly marrying simple ingredients with timeless flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quiet afternoon treat or a special gathering with loved ones, this cake promises smiles in every bite. I truly hope you enjoy baking and sharing this cake as much as I do—it’s a little slice of happiness worth keeping on your recipe list forever.

Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 9 servings 1x

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Description

This Buttery Cinnamon Cake is a moist, tender dessert featuring a rich buttery base layered with warm cinnamon flavors. Perfectly balanced with a cinnamon sugar topping and a luscious buttery drizzle, this cake offers a delightful treat suitable for any occasion. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, it serves nine generous portions.

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Ingredients

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Cake Batter

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• ½ cup whole milk

Cinnamon Sugar Topping

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Make the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined to ensure an even distribution of leavening agents and spice.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which helps to aerate the mixture for a tender cake crumb.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to maintain a smooth batter, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the sour cream with milk into the butter mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition. This balances moisture and helps maintain a tender texture without overmixing.
5. Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter to a prepared cake pan, smoothing the top for even baking.
6. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle this evenly across the surface of the batter to create a flavorful topping.
7. Drizzle Melted Butter: Evenly drizzle the melted butter over the cinnamon sugar topping to enhance the richness and create a slightly crispy crust.
8. Bake the Cake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked but still moist.
9. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving to maintain the best texture.

Notes

• You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt for a slight tang and moist texture.
• Make sure not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
• Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and rise.
• The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
• For an extra touch, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American