Cinnamon Swirl Brunch Cake Delight
This Cinnamon Swirl Brunch Cake Delight combines the beloved flavors of a classic cinnamon bun with the satisfying texture of a cake, making it the perfect addition to your weekend brunch spread. With minimal fat and a simple preparation method, this delightful treat comes together in just five minutes of mixing. The optional egg enhances its structure, resulting in a cake-like texture that is moist and delicious. Feel free to customize your creation by adding your favorite fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to create endless variations. For an extra special touch, drizzle a sweet glaze (recipe #120835) over the top before serving. Worry not about fancy presentation; this cake is all about comfort and flavor, providing a warm, inviting treat for family and friends.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
2 cups (none)
granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups (none)
milk
1 1/4 cups (none)
vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons (optional) (none)
almond extract
1-2 teaspoons (optional) (none)
baking powder
3 teaspoons (none)
salt
1 pinch (none)
large egg
1 (optional) (beaten)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (none)
cinnamon
1-2 teaspoons (none)
butter
1/4 cup (melted)
chopped walnuts or pecans
to taste (optional) (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2
Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish or prepare two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans. Note that the batter will rise significantly, so avoid using just one pan.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar, 1 1/4 cups of milk, and vanilla or almond extract (if using). Add 3 teaspoons of baking powder, a pinch of salt, and the egg (if using). Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
4
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s).
5
Sprinkle the top generously with 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon, ensuring even coverage.
6
If you like, you can also add chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch and flavor.
7
Finally, drizzle 1/4 cup of melted butter over the entire surface.
8
Bake for 20-25 minutes if using an 8 or 9-inch round pan, or approximately 30 minutes for a 13 x 9-inch pan, until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9
Let cool briefly before slicing and serving, and consider adding a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cinnamon Swirl Brunch Cake Delight?
It is a delightful brunch treat that combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon bun with a moist, cake-like texture.
How long does it take to mix the batter?
The preparation method is very simple and the batter comes together in just five minutes of mixing.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) before you begin baking.
What size baking dish is recommended?
You can use a 13 x 9-inch baking dish or two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans.
Can I use just one 8-inch round cake pan?
No, the batter will rise significantly, so you should avoid using just one small pan to prevent overflow.
What are the main dry ingredients for the base?
The base requires 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Is an egg required for this recipe?
The egg is optional, but adding it enhances the cake's structure and results in a better texture.
What liquid ingredients are needed?
You will need 1 1/4 cups of milk and your choice of vanilla or almond extract.
How should I mix the cake batter?
Mix the ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure the cake maintains a tender texture.
What goes on top of the batter before baking?
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon generously over the top.
Can I add nuts to this brunch cake?
Yes, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for extra crunch and flavor.
How is the butter incorporated?
Drizzle 1/4 cup of melted butter over the entire surface after adding the cinnamon and sugar topping.
How long does it bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan?
It takes approximately 30 minutes for the cake to bake in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
How long does it bake in round cake pans?
If using 8 or 9-inch round pans, the cake should bake for 20-25 minutes.
How do I test if the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean and the cake is golden brown, it is ready.
Can I add fruit to the recipe?
Yes, the recipe is customizable and allows for the addition of your favorite fruits.
Are chocolate chips a good addition?
Absolutely, chocolate chips can be added to create endless variations of this cake.
Is there a recommended topping after baking?
A sweet glaze (like recipe #120835) can be drizzled over the top for an extra special touch.
Does this cake require a fancy presentation?
No, this cake is all about comfort and flavor rather than elaborate presentation.
Is this a high-fat dessert?
The description notes that this cake is made with minimal fat.
Should the egg be prepared in a specific way?
The recipe suggests using one large beaten egg if you choose to include it.
What type of extract should I use?
You can use either vanilla extract or almond extract, typically 1-2 teaspoons.
Do I need to grease the pan?
Yes, you should grease the baking dish or cake pans before pouring in the batter.
What is the texture of the cake?
The cake has a moist and delicious cake-like texture that is light and fluffy.
Can I serve this cake warm?
Yes, let it cool briefly before slicing and serving to enjoy it while it is still warm and inviting.
Is this recipe suitable for a weekend brunch?
Yes, its easy preparation and classic flavors make it a perfect addition to a weekend brunch spread.
What kind of sugar is in the cake base?
The cake base uses granulated sugar, while the swirl topping uses brown sugar.
Does the recipe include salt?
Yes, it includes a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
How many teaspoons of cinnamon are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 to 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for the topping.
Can I use both vanilla and almond extract?
Yes, you can use either or a combination of both if you prefer a more complex flavor.