Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
A classic cinnamon swirl coffee cake made with a tender vanilla batter, rich brown sugar–cinnamon topping, and finished with a smooth vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or coffee breaks.
Print
Pin
Servings: 6
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk 2% may be used
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 –3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking pan with nonstick spray, preferably one containing flour.
Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and baking powder. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
Transfer Batter to Pan
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the Swirl Layer
- Spoon the cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter. Using a knife, gently swirl the topping through the batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Glaze the Cake
- While the cake is still warm, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing.
Serve
- Once fully set, slice and serve.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in both the cake and topping with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Confirm that baking powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract are certified gluten-free. Baking time may increase slightly; check for doneness before removing from the oven.