If you're looking for a simple yet indulgent treat, this Cinnamon Swirl Delight is your answer. It's a comforting blend of soft cake with a rich, cinnamon-sugar swirl and a sweet glaze that just melts in your mouth. Perfect for cozy mornings or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
All-purpose flour is the base of our cake, providing structure and a soft crumb. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake without overpowering the cinnamon flavor. Unsalted butter adds richness; we use it both softened in the batter and melted in the cinnamon swirl for a buttery taste. Milk ensures the batter is moist, and eggs help bind everything together while adding lightness. Baking powder gives the cake its rise, ensuring it’s fluffy and tender. Vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic note that complements the cinnamon perfectly. For the swirl, light brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor, and ground cinnamon is the star, offering that classic, comforting spice. A pinch of salt rounds out the flavors, balancing the sweetness. The glaze, made with powdered sugar, milk, and a touch more vanilla extract, is the perfect finishing touch.
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It's also delightful alongside a cup of spiced tea or a steaming mug of hot apple cider, which enhances the cinnamon flavor.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9x13 inch baking pan and grease it lightly to ensure nothing sticks. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together with a whisk to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. Now, it's time to add the wet ingredients — toss in the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until you've got a smooth, lump-free batter.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of light brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until you have a smooth, thick cinnamon mixture. Drop spoonfuls of this mixture over the cake batter. Using a knife, gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect.
Slide the pan into the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cake is done, drizzle the glaze over it while it's still warm. This will let the glaze seep into the cake a bit, enhancing the flavor. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving.
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