Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

The Fluffiest Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe Ever Made

Whipping up a delectable buttery cinnamon cake can transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and comfort.

Sweet aromas of spice and butter dance through the air, promising a delightful treat.

Memories of childhood mornings drift back with each swirl of cinnamon.

Soft, moist layers promise pure indulgence for anyone seeking a simple yet spectacular dessert.

Baking becomes an adventure of flavors and textures that spark joy and connection.

Mixing these ingredients creates magic that turns an ordinary afternoon into something extraordinary.

You’ll want to savor every single crumb of this irresistible cake.

Buttery Cinnamon Cake—Warm, Sweet, And Totally Addictive

  • Capture Cozy Comfort: Indulge in a warm, spice-infused cake that wraps you in pure comfort with its rich cinnamon and nutmeg aroma.
  • Master Beginner-Friendly Baking: Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe offers simple steps and minimal ingredients that guarantee a delicious result every single time.
  • Create Versatile Dessert Magic: Ideal for casual family gatherings, afternoon tea, or a sweet weekend treat that requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum satisfaction.
  • Personalize with Ease: Customize the cake with optional toppings like powdered sugar or a cinnamon glaze, making it adaptable to different tastes and occasions.

What You’ll Use To Make Buttery Cinnamon Cake Magic

For the Cake Base:
  • Butter: A creamy ingredient that provides richness and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its soft, light structure.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture and structure to the cake.
For the Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure-building ingredient that gives the cake its fundamental texture.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor balance of the cake.
  • Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that add depth and complexity to the cake's flavor profile.
For the Liquid and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth, cohesive batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a subtle, sweet background flavor that complements the spices.
  • Powdered Sugar (Optional): A light dusting that adds a touch of sweetness and decorative finish.

Step Into The Kitchen And Bake That Buttery Cinnamon Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up the oven to 350°F. Generously coat a 9-inch round cake pan with butter, making sure every corner gets covered to stop the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, whip softened butter and sugar together until the mixture transforms into a fluffy, pale yellow cloud that looks light and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs Carefully

Crack eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one by one. Blend thoroughly after each egg to keep the batter smooth and prevent any unwelcome clumping.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab another bowl and sift together:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg

This helps break down any stubborn lumps and ensures spices spread evenly throughout the cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Pour in milk alternately to create a silky, streak-free batter that looks absolutely dreamy.

Step 6: Enhance Flavor

Splash in vanilla extract, which adds a beautiful layer of warmth that dances perfectly with the cinnamon and nutmeg.

Step 7: Fill the Pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and give the pan a gentle tap to release any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick comes out clean and the top turns a gorgeous golden-brown.

Step 9: Cool Down

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then move it to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the flavors to settle and develop.

Step 10: Add Final Touches

For extra pizzazz, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle a light cinnamon glaze to make the cake look as amazing as it tastes.

Get That Perfect Texture With These Buttery Cinnamon Cake Tips

  • Grease Like a Pro: Use softened butter and thoroughly coat the entire pan, pressing into corners to prevent any cake sticking and ensure easy removal.
  • Mix Eggs Perfectly: Add eggs one at a time and mix completely between each addition to maintain a smooth, lump-free batter that creates a lighter cake texture.
  • Sift Dry Ingredients Carefully: Sifting eliminates clumps and distributes spices evenly, guaranteeing a consistent flavor throughout the cake and preventing unexpected spice pockets.
  • Check Baking Doneness Accurately: Insert a toothpick into the cake's center; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, your cake is perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Spice It Up—Fun Twists On Buttery Cinnamon Cake

  • Gluten-Free Spice Cake: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same tender texture while accommodating wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Delight: Swap eggs with mashed bananas or applesauce, use plant-based milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • Nutty Whole Grain Option: Incorporate whole wheat flour or almond flour alongside all-purpose flour, adding extra nutritional value and a slightly denser crumb.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Cake: Reduce granulated sugar by half, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and add grated carrots for natural sweetness and moisture.

What To Serve Alongside Buttery Cinnamon Cake

  • Pair with Warm Spiced Chai: Complement the cake's cinnamon and nutmeg notes with a fragrant, creamy chai tea that echoes the warm spice profile.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Create a delightful contrast by adding a scoop of smooth, cold vanilla ice cream alongside the warm cake, balancing temperature and flavor.
  • Match with Caramel Drizzle: Enhance the cake's richness by drizzling a light, golden caramel sauce over each slice, adding depth and a luxurious sweetness.
  • Accompany with Whipped Mascarpone: Top the cake with a dollop of light, creamy mascarpone whipped with a touch of honey, providing a silky, elegant complement to the spiced cake.

Keep Buttery Cinnamon Cake Tasting Like It Just Came Out The Oven

  • Store cooled cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap for up to 4 days, keeping it fresh and moist in the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual cake slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, lasting up to 3 months without losing flavor.
  • Keep cake covered at room temperature for 1-2 days if serving soon, ensuring it remains soft and delectable in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
  • Warm refrigerated or frozen cake slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or reheat in a preheated 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore its original warmth and softness.

Buttery Cinnamon Cake: Your Burning Questions Answered

  • What makes this cake different from other basic cake recipes?

The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg create a unique flavor profile that elevates this cake beyond standard vanilla recipes, giving it a rich, aromatic taste.

  • Can I replace milk with another liquid in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute milk with buttermilk or almond milk, which will slightly alter the cake’s texture and add a subtle tangy or nutty undertone.

  • Is this cake considered a good option for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! The recipe follows straightforward mixing techniques and requires basic ingredients, making it an excellent starting point for those new to baking.

  • How do I know if I've mixed the batter correctly?

The batter should look smooth and uniform, without any flour streaks, and have a consistent pale yellow color when all ingredients are well incorporated.

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Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe

Buttery Cinnamon Cake Recipe


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4.9 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Homemade buttery cinnamon cake brings warmth and comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, with layers of sweet spice dancing through tender crumb. Rich fragrant notes invite dessert lovers to savor each delightful, moist bite that melts perfectly on your palate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk

Spices and Flavoring:

  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Leavening and Binding:

  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
  2. Cream softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow, creating a smooth base for the cake.
  3. Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a consistent texture and prevent curdling.
  4. Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a separate bowl to eliminate any lumps and ensure even spice distribution.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with milk to create a silky, well-integrated cake batter that is free of streaks.
  6. Stir in vanilla extract, providing a subtle depth of flavor that complements the warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and tap the pan gently to release any potential air bubbles.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean and the cake’s surface turns a golden-brown color.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Optional: Dust the top with powdered sugar or create a light cinnamon glaze for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Softening butter at room temperature ensures smooth creaming and helps create a light, tender cake texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter after adding dry ingredients, which can develop tough gluten and result in a dense, chewy cake instead of a delicate crumb.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free margarine instead of butter without compromising the cake’s rich flavor.
  • Enhance the cake’s warmth by adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a more complex, aromatic spice profile that elevates the dessert.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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