Introduction

This Snickerdoodle Cake combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with a moist vanilla base. Topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, it’s a perfect dessert for any occasion.

A golden brown bundt cake sits on a white scalloped-edge plate over a white marbled surface. The cake has one main round layer with ridges formed by the bundt pan. It is topped with piped rows of creamy white frosting evenly spaced, following the ridges down the cake. Large crystals of coarse sugar along with fine cinnamon powder are sprinkled generously over the frosting and onto the plate, adding texture and sparkle. The center hole of the bundt cake is empty, showing the white marbled background beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake mix (15.25 ounces)
3 eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cinnamon
⅓ cup butter (melted)
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
½ cup butter (softened)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
⅓ cup sugar (granulated or sanding)
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a Bundt pan by spraying it liberally with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix with a handheld or stand mixer until thick and fully combined. Set aside.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until fully combined to make the cinnamon swirl.
Step 4: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Spoon half of the cinnamon swirl over the batter. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl it through gently.
Step 5: Pour the remaining cake batter on top, then add the remaining cinnamon swirl mixture. Swirl again with a toothpick or skewer.
Step 6: Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Step 7: After cooling, invert the cake onto a serving plate and allow it to cool completely.
Step 8: For the glaze, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar and continue mixing until it reaches a frosting consistency. Add a tablespoon of milk if the glaze is too thick.
Step 9: Place the cream cheese glaze into a piping or zipper bag. Cut a small triangle from the tip and drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake in a zigzag pattern.
Step 10: Combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top for a finishing touch.
Step 11: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Tips & Variations

Use buttermilk or add 1 tablespoon vinegar to regular milk to achieve tender cake texture.
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the vanilla cake batter.
Try adding chopped nuts like pecans to the cinnamon swirl for some crunch.
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar slightly.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the glaze fresh. Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature or warm a slice briefly in the microwave for a soft, tender bite.

How to Serve

A close-up shows a slice of a light brown bundt cake with a pale cream swirl inside, lifted on a silver cake server. The cake has a smooth light cream frosting drizzled evenly on top with large sugar crystals sprinkled over it, adding sparkle and texture. The cake rests on a white plate with more sugar crystals scattered around. The slice reveals soft, moist texture with a swirl of cinnamon or spice inside. The surface underneath is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without a Bundt pan?

Yes, you can bake this cake in a standard 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may need to be adjusted; check doneness with a toothpick starting at 30 minutes.

Can I prepare the cinnamon swirl and glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture and cream cheese glaze a day ahead. Keep the glaze covered tightly in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before using.