The Best Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Cake (No-Fail Recipe)
This cinnamon swirl loaf cake is one of those cozy, nostalgic bakes that instantly fills the kitchen with warmth. It’s inspired by the simple treats that used to sit on our family’s counter—soft, sweet, and impossible to resist. The tender vanilla cake, ribboned with a buttery cinnamon swirl, tastes just like the homemade loaves we grew up with. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners, and it always turns out beautifully. Topped with a creamy cinnamon-spiced frosting, this no-fail loaf cake is perfect for brunch, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting, homemade dessert that feels like a hug from the past.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Swirl Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Cream Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Combine Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour.
- Layer Batter: Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture over it. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the swirl mixture. Gently swirl with a knife.
- Bake Cake: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make Frosting: For the frosting, whisk together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over the cooled loaf. Dust with extra cinnamon if desired.
