This Cinnamon Swirl Sour Cream Cake is the kind of bake that fills your kitchen with warm, cozy aromas and your heart with nostalgia.
Moist, fluffy, and crowned with a cinnamon-sugar ripple, it’s the perfect companion to coffee, tea, or a weekend brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buttery and moist: Thanks to rich sour cream and creamed butter
Swirled with cinnamon sugar: Every slice hides a fragrant layer of spice
Easy yet impressive: Simple ingredients, beautiful results
Perfect for any occasion: Brunch, holidays, or gifting
Make-ahead friendly: Stays moist for days and freezes well
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour – base of the batter, sifted for even texture
Sour cream – the secret to a soft, tangy crumb
Granulated + brown sugar – sweetness plus caramel depth
Unsalted butter – creates a rich and fluffy batter
Ground cinnamon – aromatic warmth throughout
Eggs + vanilla extract – classic baking essentials
Pro Tips Before You Start
Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly for a smoother batter
Grease the bundt pan thoroughly, especially in the crevices
Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients—it can toughen the cake
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting to prevent sticking
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Sour Cream Cake
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Generously grease a 10-cup Bundt pan with butter or baking spray, making sure to coat every nook.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Add one-third of the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
Stir in half the sour cream. Repeat, ending with the flour.
Be gentle and don’t overmix.
Step 5: Make the Swirl Layer
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon together.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Spoon half the batter into the prepared pan.
Sprinkle with half the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Repeat with remaining batter and cinnamon-sugar.
Swirl gently with a knife in a figure-eight motion.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once cooled completely, dust the cake with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
What to Serve It With
A hot cup of cinnamon coffee or chai tea
Fresh fruit or berries on the side
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
Whipped cream or crème fraîche for added indulgence
Variations / Substitutions
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the swirl for crunch
Mix in apple chunks for a fall-inspired twist
Substitute pumpkin spice for cinnamon in the swirl
Storage & Leftovers
Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 6 days
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months
To reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds
FAQs
Can I use full-fat yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Full-fat plain yogurt works well and gives a slightly tangier flavor.
What’s the best way to grease a Bundt pan?
Use softened butter and dust with flour, or spray generously with baking spray that includes flour.
Can I make this cake in a loaf pan?
Yes, divide the batter into two standard loaf pans and reduce the baking time to 35–40 minutes.
How do I get clean slices?
Let the cake cool fully before slicing, and use a serrated knife.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I add icing or glaze?
Yes! A vanilla glaze or cream cheese drizzle is delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Sour Cream Cake is a love letter to classic flavors.
The buttery crumb, warm spices, and beautiful swirl make it a cake you’ll reach for all year long.
Whether it’s for brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon treat—it always delivers.
