I have a confession. I used to think Bundt cakes were just for church potlucks and my great-aunt Mildred. I was wrong.
This Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake is the reason my kitchen smells like a hug and my friends suddenly find reasons to stop by. It’s the cake that converted me. Forget complicated layer cakes; this is your new secret weapon.
It’s moist, deeply spiced, and looks impressively fancy with zero effort. The aroma alone is a strategic asset. This specific Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake recipe is the one you’ll make on repeat.
This isn’t just a cake; it’s a time machine.
One bite and I’m ten years old, sitting at my grandma’s linoleum table. The secret? It’s the perfect balance of warmth and sweetness.
We’re not just talking about a sprinkle of cinnamon. We’re talking about a full-spice squadron: ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of cloves. Have you ever had a cake that actually gets better the next day?
This one does. The flavors meld and deepen, making it the ultimate make-ahead dessert. It’s the underrated hero of the baking world, and it’s about to become your MVP.
Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to spiced nirvana.
I promise, you probably have most of this in your pantry right now. The only thing that might be a little quirky is the use of both oil and butter. Trust me, this combo is the holy grail for a supremely moist crumb that stays that way for days.
No dry cake on my watch.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven and prep the pan. Heat your oven to 350°F and generously grease every nook of your Bundt pan. I use a baking spray with flour.
A poorly greased pan is a tragedy we can avoid.
- Whisk the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed, so every single bite is perfect.
- Cream the fats and sugar.
In your stand mixer, beat the softened butter, oil, and sugar on medium-high until it’s light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which is key for a good rise. Don’t rush it!
- Incorporate the wet ingredients.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Scrape down the bowl to make sure everything is combined. Then, mix in the sour cream until just incorporated.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix until just combined. Overmixing is the enemy of a tender spiced cake.
- Bake to perfection.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Your house will smell incredible.
- Cool completely. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. This is the hardest part—waiting.
But it’s crucial for a clean release.
Storage Instructions
This cake stores like a dream. Once completely cool, you can keep it fresh for days. For short-term storage, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in a cake carrier at room temperature.
It will stay moist for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight on the counter. IMO, this makes it a perfect candidate for batch baking.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake
- It’s a Crowd-Pleaser: This cake appeals to literally everyone. From kids to grandparents, it’s a universal hit at parties, potlucks, and Tuesday afternoons.
- It’s Deceptively Simple: The Bundt pan does all the decorative work for you.
It looks like you slaved over a complicated dessert, but the process is straightforward and forgiving.
- It Gets Better with Age: The flavors of cinnamon and spice meld and intensify overnight. Making it a day ahead is not just a hack; it’s the pro-move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not greasing the pan enough. This is the #1 reason for a cake disaster. Get into every crevice!
- Overmixing the batter. This develops gluten and leads to a tough cake.
Mix until just combined, then walk away.
- Using expired baking powder/soda. Your cake won’t rise. FYI, test them if you’re unsure.
- Inverting the cake while it’s too hot. It will fall apart. Patience is a virtue, especially in baking.
Alternatives and Variations
Feel free to play with this classic Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake recipe!
For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To make it dairy-free, swap the butter for vegan butter, the sour cream for vegan sour cream or plain vegan yogurt. You can also add a cup of chopped apples or toasted walnuts to the batter for extra texture.
A simple vanilla or cream cheese glaze drizzled on top never hurts, either.
FAQs
Can I freeze this Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! This cake freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly (whole or in slices) and it will keep for up to 3 months.
It’s a lifesaver for unexpected guests.
What’s the best substitute for sour cream?
Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is the best 1:1 substitute. It provides the same tang and moisture that makes this cake so tender.
How long does it stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this cake stays fresh and moist for 3-4 days. It rarely lasts that long in my house, though.
Is this kid-friendly?
Are you kidding?
It’s basically a giant, fluffy, perfectly spiced donut in cake form. It’s a total kid-magnet and a great easy dessert for families.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
100%. I actually recommend it.
Bake it the day before you need it, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and let the flavors party overnight. It will be even better the next day.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Spice Bundt Cake is more than a recipe; it’s a reliable joy-bringer. It’s proof that the simplest things are often the best.
I hope this becomes a staple in your home, filling it with warmth and wonderful smells. Now, go preheat that oven and bake a memory. And when you do, tell me all about it in the comments!