Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Cake with Frosting

Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Cake with Frosting is the ultimate comfort bake—a soft, buttery vanilla loaf laced with a ribbon of warm cinnamon sugar and topped with a smooth, spiced cream cheese glaze. Perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon tea, or as a sweet centerpiece on your brunch table, this loaf cake delivers homemade charm in every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaf cake is the perfect blend of nostalgic flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Moist and Tender: The soft vanilla crumb stays fluffy and moist thanks to butter and milk.
• Warm Cinnamon Swirl: A cozy, spiced ribbon in every bite adds comforting flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and minimal prep.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a gift-worthy bake.
• Topped with Frosting: A cinnamon-spiced glaze adds an irresistible sweet finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon

For the Frosting:

• Powdered sugar
• Cream cheese, softened
• Milk
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl layer.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry mixture.
7. Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon swirl mixture.
8. Add the remaining batter, then sprinkle the rest of the swirl mixture on top. Gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
9. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan before frosting.
10. To make the frosting, whisk together powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
11. Spread the frosting over the cooled loaf. Dust lightly with additional cinnamon if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per slice

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the swirl for crunch.
• Maple Frosting: Replace milk with maple syrup for a seasonal glaze.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Spiced Crumb Topping: Add a streusel layer on top before baking for texture.
• Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans and reduce bake time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Enjoy slices at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for a fresh-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I freeze this loaf cake?

Yes. Wrap unfrosted slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

What size loaf pan should I use?

A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best for this recipe.

Can I skip the frosting?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own or dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I use buttermilk instead of regular milk?

Absolutely. Buttermilk adds a slight tang and makes the cake even more tender.

What type of cinnamon is best?

Use ground Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon—whichever you prefer. Cassia provides a stronger, spicier flavor.

Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking or measuring flour incorrectly can cause dryness. Spoon and level your flour and check for doneness at 45 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a 9×13 pan, adjusting baking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe egg-free?

Try substituting each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer.

Is cream cheese frosting necessary?

It’s optional, but it complements the cinnamon flavor wonderfully. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk also works well.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter adds flavor and structure, but melted coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil can be used for a slightly different texture.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Loaf Cake with Frosting is a classic comfort bake that never fails to impress. With its soft vanilla base, rich cinnamon swirl, and smooth spiced glaze, it’s the perfect companion to a hot cup of tea or coffee. Whether you’re baking for guests or simply treating yourself, this loaf cake is sure to become a cozy favorite.

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