Go Back
To achieve the perfect Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Cake, it’s important to understand the role of each ingredient. Each component contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and quality of the cake. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dessert truly special:

Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Cake

Discover the joy of baking with the delightful Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Cake, a dessert that perfectly blends rich cream cheese and warm cinnamon flavors in every slice. This visually stunning cake not only tastes amazing but also features an eye-catching swirl that makes it a showstopper at any gathering. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a baking masterpiece that will impress family and friends, whether it's for a special occasion or a simple treat. Enjoy the warm, comforting experience this cake brings to your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

½ cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

    Prepare the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating each one fully before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

      Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and egg, then mix until creamy and smooth. Set aside.

        Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix in the melted butter until it resembles a crumbly mixture.

          Layer the Cake: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Next, dollop the cream cheese filling over the cake batter, spreading it gently. Sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the cream cheese. Finish by pouring the remaining cake batter over the top and spreading to cover.

            Swirl it Up: Using a butter knife or a skewer, gently swirl through the batter in a figure-eight motion to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or powdered sugar as desired.

                  Finish: Once the cake is cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing into squares.

                    Serve: Enjoy your warm or room-temperature Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 12 servings