Name: Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487343H11M1S
Total time: PT-487343H11M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all‑purpose flour; ¾ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp baking soda; ¾ tsp salt; 10 Tbsp (≈ 140 g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 1¼ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup light brown sugar; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

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Few things capture the cozy essence of homemade baking like the nostalgic flavors of a snickerdoodle cookie—but imagine that same warmth and cinnamon-sugar charm baked into a moist, buttery bundt cake. This Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring a soft, tender crumb, a sweet cinnamon swirl ribbon throughout the center, and a sparkling cinnamon-sugar topping that forms a delicate, flavorful crust. It’s the perfect cake to enjoy with coffee, as a holiday treat, or simply when you need a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug.

The combination of buttermilk and butter gives the cake a rich texture, while the swirl of brown sugar and cinnamon adds depth and complexity to each bite. And don’t underestimate the topping—a simple blend of cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter creates a snickerdoodle-like crust that takes this cake from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the classic cookie or simply looking for a new crowd-pleasing dessert, this Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake is bound to become a go-to favorite in your recipe box.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavor, Elevated – All the goodness of a snickerdoodle cookie in a moist, beautiful cake form.
Perfect Texture – Buttermilk ensures a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Easy Yet Impressive – No complicated steps, but the final result looks and tastes bakery-quality.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Keeps well and even tastes better the next day.
Versatile Dessert – Ideal for brunches, holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Cake

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter (at room temperature)
Granulated sugar
Eggs (at room temperature)
Vanilla extract
Buttermilk (at room temperature)

Ribbon

Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar
Ground cinnamon

Topping

Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (melted)

Variations

Add Nuts – Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Glaze It – Drizzle with a vanilla glaze or cream cheese icing for an extra indulgent touch.
Use Greek Yogurt – Substitute half the buttermilk with full-fat Greek yogurt for extra richness.
Make it Mini – Bake in mini bundt pans for individual servings.
Add Apple Chunks – Fold in small diced apples for a fall-inspired twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Grease a bundt pan thoroughly and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Alternate Mixing

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing just until combined.

Step 5: Make the Ribbon

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the ribbon.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the ribbon mixture evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter and smooth the top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

Step 8: Add the Topping

Brush the warm cake with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the top.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Grease the Pan Well – Use butter and flour or a baking spray to avoid sticking.
Don’t Overmix – Mix until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures even mixing and better texture.
Let It Cool Before Slicing – Gives the crumb time to set and prevents breakage.
Use Fresh Spices – For the best flavor, make sure your cinnamon is fresh.

How to Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with coffee, tea, or spiced cider for a comforting afternoon snack.
Slice and serve at brunch gatherings or potlucks.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-worthy experience.
Dust with extra cinnamon sugar just before serving for visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cake tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften and enhance flavor. You can also warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without a bundt pan?

Yes, use a loaf pan or round cake pans, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

2. What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?

Use 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.

3. How do I prevent the cake from sticking?

Grease the bundt pan thoroughly and allow the cake to cool before inverting.

4. Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter provides the best flavor, but neutral oil can be used for a slightly different texture.

5. How do I know when it’s done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

6. Is this cake overly sweet?

No, the sweetness is balanced by the tang of buttermilk and cinnamon.

7. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can slightly reduce sugar in the batter, but it may affect the texture.

8. Can I skip the ribbon layer?

You can, but the cinnamon swirl adds flavor and visual appeal.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Wrap tightly and store at room temperature or refrigerate in an airtight container.

10. Is this cake good for special occasions?

Absolutely! It’s great for brunches, showers, holidays, or just to impress guests.

Conclusion

This Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake is everything you love about the iconic cookie—sweet, cinnamon-spiced, and full of comfort—reimagined in a stunning, soft, and tender cake. Whether you’re baking it for a festive occasion or simply indulging in a quiet moment of sweetness, this cake delivers on flavor, texture, and charm. It’s easy enough for everyday baking, yet elegant enough to steal the show at any gathering. Give it a try, and it just might become a new family favorite!