Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is incredibly easy to make and uses pantry staples you likely already have. It has a moist, fluffy texture with a sweet cinnamon swirl that adds warmth and depth of flavor. The combination of a soft cake base and a slightly crisp cinnamon topping makes every bite satisfying. It’s perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed any time of day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cinnamon topping:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cinnamon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until well mixed.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter.
- Use a knife to swirl the topping into the batter.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 9 to 12 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30 to 35 minutes
Total time: 45 to 50 minutes
Variations
You can customize this cake in several ways. Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture. Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for added sweetness. You can also mix in apples for a fruity twist or add a touch of nutmeg for extra spice. For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored properly.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.
Why is my cake dense?
Overmixing the batter can make it dense.
Can I add frosting?
Yes, a light glaze or cream cheese frosting works well.
How do I know when it’s done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
What size pan should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish works well.
Can I add fruit?
Yes, apples or berries can be added for variation.
How do I make the swirl look better?
Use a knife to gently swirl without overmixing.
Conclusion
Amish cinnamon cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that delivers warm, comforting flavors with minimal effort. With its soft texture and sweet cinnamon swirl, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served fresh or reheated, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.
PrintAmish Cinnamon Cake
A soft and buttery Amish cinnamon cake with a rich cinnamon swirl and tender crumb. This comforting dessert is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a cozy treat with coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture over the batter.
- Use a knife to swirl the topping gently into the batter.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze for added sweetness.
- Mix in apples or berries for variation.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave or low oven before serving.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
