Ultimate Cinnamon Streusel Bundt Cake Recipe

Introduction

The Cinnamon Streusel Cake is a classic dessert that embodies the comforting warmth of cinnamon combined with a moist, tender cake base topped with a crunchy, flavorful streusel. Originating from traditional baking recipes, this cake has gained popularity for its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, as well as its textural contrast between the crumbly streusel and soft cake interior. At Love With Recipes, we believe that baking should be an accessible, joyful experience, and this recipe is no exception—simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that will impress both family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a cozy treat to enjoy with your morning coffee, this Cinnamon Streusel Cake is the ideal choice. Its enticing aroma as it bakes will fill your kitchen with inviting scents, creating a warm atmosphere that turns any day into a special occasion.

Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking/Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Needed Equipment

• 12-cup Bundt cake pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Toothpick or cake tester
• Sifter (optional, for powdered sugar dusting)
• Kitchen brush or pastry brush (for greasing pan)

Tags

Dessert, Baked Goods, Cinnamon, Streusel, Cake, Easy Recipes, Comfort Food, Family Favorite, Seasonal Baking

Serving Size

Makes approximately 12 generous slices, suitable for serving 8–10 people depending on portion size.

Difficulty Level

Beginner to Intermediate — this recipe involves basic baking techniques and straightforward assembly, making it perfect for novice bakers and experienced cooks alike.

Allergen Information

Contains gluten (cake mix), eggs, dairy (butter), and nuts (if added in streusel). Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination if you have allergies.

Dietary Preference

Contains dairy and eggs. Not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. Can be adapted for gluten-free diets with appropriate substitute cake mix and flour.

Course

Dessert / Snack

Cuisine

American / Classic Bakery

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping

For the Cake

Instructions

Preparation of the Streusel Topping

Begin by preparing the streusel topping well in advance to allow the flavors to meld and to ensure the topping remains crumbly and flavorful. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined. If you’re adding nuts, fold them into the mixture at this stage.

Next, incorporate the cold, cubed butter into the sugar mixture. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key is to work quickly to prevent the butter from melting, which helps achieve that perfect crumbly texture. The mixture should be uneven, with larger and smaller crumbs, to create a delightful contrast once baked.

Set the streusel aside while you prepare the cake batter. If using chopped nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the batter later during assembly.

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows for even baking and a tender crumb. Grease your 12-cup Bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray. Lightly dust it with flour or cocoa powder to prevent sticking, or use a baking spray with flour for convenience.
2. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the dry cake mix. Add the eggs, water, and melted butter. Using an electric mixer set to low speed, mix the ingredients until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure all ingredients are incorporated evenly.
3. Once the mixture is smooth and homogenous, increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for exactly 3 minutes. This step is crucial to develop the cake’s structure, ensuring a tender yet stable crumb. Do not overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture.
4. Using a spatula, gently fold the streusel mixture into the batter in a marbled fashion—don’t fully incorporate the streusel, but swirl it through the batter to create visual and textural contrast. This marbling technique enhances the aesthetic appeal and distributes flavor throughout the cake.

Baking the Cake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking. Lightly tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter.
2. Sprinkle any remaining streusel on top if desired, to add extra crunch and flavor.
3. Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake; it should come out clean with no wet batter attached.
4. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the cake set and reduces the risk of breaking when inverted.

Cooling and Finishing

Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely. This step is vital to prevent the cake from becoming soggy and to allow the flavors to fully develop. Once cooled, dust the surface with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation and an extra touch of sweetness.

Serve slices of the Cinnamon Streusel Cake with a hot beverage such as coffee, tea, or warm milk, and enjoy the aromatic, flavorful experience. The combination of moist cake, crunchy streusel, and spicy cinnamon ensures each bite is a delight.

Preparation Tips

• Use room temperature eggs and butter for easier mixing and better incorporation.
• For a more intense cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the streusel or add a pinch to the cake batter.
• If you prefer a more decadent cake, substitute part of the water with buttermilk or milk.
• Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even heat distribution.
• Test the cake’s doneness with a toothpick at the center; don’t rely solely on time as oven temperatures vary.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For maximum flavor: toast the nuts before adding them to the streusel to enhance their aroma and crunch.
• For a richer cake: add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
• To make it dairy-free: substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, and use a dairy-free cake mix.
• Presentation: drizzle caramel sauce or cream cheese glaze over slices for an elegant touch.

Add-ons

• Fresh berries or a fruit compote on the side
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
• Chocolate chips added to the streusel for a chocolate cinnamon variation
• Caramel or maple syrup drizzled on top

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad
• Yogurt parfait with granola and berries
• Warm vanilla custard or pudding
• Light salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance sweetness

Improvements

• Incorporate apple chunks or grated zucchini into the batter for added moisture and nutritional value.
• Add spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
• Use sour cream or Greek yogurt in the batter for extra richness.
• Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits in the streusel.

Save and Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To keep the cake moist, cover it with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving to restore freshness.

FAQ

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the boxed cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix and ensure any added ingredients like nuts or flour are certified gluten-free. Adjust baking time as needed, as gluten-free batters can vary in consistency.

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of cake mix?

Absolutely. Use your favorite yellow or vanilla cake recipe, prepared in the same quantities, and follow the same assembly steps. This allows for more control over ingredients and flavors.

How do I prevent the streusel from sinking into the cake?

Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter before baking and avoid pressing it down firmly. The marbled technique helps distribute it throughout the cake without sinking.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, once cooled completely, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes for best results.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Streusel Cake from Love With Recipes stands as a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients yielding extraordinary flavor. Its warm cinnamon aroma, tender crumb, and crunchy streusel topping make it a perennial favorite for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast, an indulgent dessert, or a special treat for guests, this cake’s versatility and deliciousness are unmatched. With a straightforward process and adaptable options, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Embrace the joy of baking, fill your home with irresistible scents, and delight your loved ones with every slice of this heavenly Cinnamon Streusel Cake.

References

• Love With Recipes. (n.d.). Cinnamon Streusel Cake. Retrieved from lovewithrecipes.com
• King Arthur Baking Company. (2021). Classic Cinnamon Streusel Recipe. Kingarthurbaking.com