Snickerdoodle Cake

Snickerdoodle cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that combines the comforting, nostalgic flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with the rich, soft texture of cake. The cake is infused with a delightful cinnamon swirl, topped with a sweet cream cheese glaze, and finished with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for the perfect balance of sweet and spice. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual afternoons with a cup of tea.

The combination of a light, fluffy vanilla cake base, the warm cinnamon swirl, and the indulgent cream cheese glaze creates a dessert that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of snickerdoodles or just looking for a new dessert to try, this snickerdoodle cake offers the perfect blend of flavors. The best part? It’s quick to make, and the ingredients are simple yet yield an incredible result every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Flavor Combination

The blend of vanilla cake, cinnamon swirl, and cream cheese glaze offers the ideal balance of sweet and spicy, making it an irresistible treat.

2. Easy to Make

With the help of a boxed cake mix and simple ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, even for novice bakers.

3. Moist and Soft Texture

The buttermilk in the cake ensures a tender, moist crumb that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon swirl and creamy glaze.

4. Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just making a weekend treat, this cake is perfect for any event.

5. Creamy, Decadent Glaze

The cream cheese glaze adds a rich, velvety finish that enhances the flavors of the cake, making it extra special.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake

• Vanilla cake mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Buttermilk
• Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl

• Brown sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Cinnamon
• Butter (melted)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

• Cream cheese
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar

For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

• Granulated sugar or sanding sugar
• Cinnamon

Variations

• Chocolate Swirl: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cinnamon swirl mixture for a chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Snickerdoodle: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter for a nutty crunch.
• Frosting Options: Instead of the cream cheese glaze, you can top the cake with buttercream frosting for a sweeter touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free vanilla cake mix and gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this cake.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the cream cheese glaze for extra sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture according to the package instructions until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter to make the cinnamon swirl mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.

Step 3: Layer the Cake

Pour half of the cake batter into a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over the batter. Then, add the remaining cake batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon swirl mixture. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture through the cake batter for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Bake the cake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until the glaze is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar topping. Once the cake has cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the cake.

Step 7: Frost with Glaze

Spread the cream cheese glaze evenly over the top of the cooled cake, covering it completely.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-spiced layers and the rich cream cheese glaze.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Swirl the Cinnamon Evenly: When swirling the cinnamon mixture into the cake batter, be gentle to avoid overmixing. A few swirls are enough to create a beautiful marbled effect.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese and butter for the glaze are softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time to ensure it doesn’t overbake. The cake should be golden and a toothpick should come out clean.
• Chill the Glaze: If the cream cheese glaze becomes too runny, refrigerate it for a few minutes before spreading it on the cake.

How to Serve

This snickerdoodle cake is perfect for serving at breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk. You can serve it as a stand-alone treat or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover snickerdoodle cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake will stay moist and flavorful.

Freezing

To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, place the cake in the refrigerator overnight, and then bring it to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To reheat individual slices, microwave them for about 15-20 seconds or place the cake in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature. The glaze can be prepared and refrigerated until you’re ready to frost the cake.

2. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

You can substitute the vanilla cake mix with another flavor, such as yellow or butter cake mix, but it will slightly change the flavor of the cake.

3. How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking?

Make sure to swirl the cinnamon mixture gently and not to overmix it with the cake batter. This will help the cinnamon swirl stay in the middle.

4. Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk, but buttermilk adds extra moisture and tang to the cake.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter in the glaze?

Yes, you can use margarine, but butter will yield a richer flavor.

6. How long will the cake stay fresh?

The cake will stay fresh for 3 days at room temperature. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

7. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free cake mix and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the cinnamon swirl.

8. Can I skip the glaze?

Yes, if you prefer a simpler cake, you can skip the cream cheese glaze and just enjoy the cinnamon swirl with the cinnamon sugar topping.

9. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If the glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.

10. Can I add nuts to the cake?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added to the batter for a nutty variation.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines all the warm, comforting flavors of snickerdoodle cookies with the rich texture of a cake. With its cinnamon swirl, creamy glaze, and cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s a treat everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or as a weekend dessert, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy every bite of this cinnamon-spiced delight!

Print