Easy Swirled Cinnamon Pudding Cake – Soft, Sweet & Irresistible
Introduction
This Easy Swirled Cinnamon Pudding Cake is the kind of dessert that disappears fast at any gathering. A boxed vanilla cake mix gets a flavor upgrade with pudding for extra moisture, while a buttery cinnamon swirl adds warmth and sweetness. It’s simple to make, yet tastes like something straight from a bakery—perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a quick weekend treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Moist & tender: Pudding mix keeps the cake soft.
Cinnamon swirl: Adds a cozy, bakery‑style touch.
Quick & easy: Uses pantry staples and boxed mix.
Crowd‑pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Cake Base
1 box vanilla cake mix
1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
4 eggs
1 cup milk
½ cup vegetable oil
Cinnamon Swirl (Suggested)
½ cup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp melted butter
Optional Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13‑inch baking pan.
Step 2: Make Cake Batter
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, milk, and oil. Beat until smooth.
Step 3: Add Cinnamon Swirl
Pour half the batter into pan. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Spoon swirl mixture over batter. Add remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife.
Step 4: Bake
Bake 35–40 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 5: Optional Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Tips & Tricks
Extra swirl: Double the cinnamon mixture for stronger flavor.
Moisture boost: Replace milk with half‑and‑half for richness.
Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 3 days or refrigerate up to 5.
Shortcut: Bake in a bundt pan for a fancier look.
Variations
Apple Cinnamon Cake: Add diced apples to the swirl.
Chocolate Twist: Swap cinnamon for cocoa powder.
Nutty Swirl: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.
Holiday Version: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Pair with coffee or hot chocolate.
Cut into squares for potluck platters.
Garnish with whipped cream and cinnamon dust.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other pudding flavors?
Yes—French vanilla or cheesecake pudding works beautifully.
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead?
Absolutely—adjust bake time to 18–20 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Yield: 12–15 servings
Final Thoughts
This Easy Swirled Cinnamon Pudding Cake is moist, sweet, and effortlessly delicious. With its cozy cinnamon flavor and tender texture, it’s a dessert that will quickly become a family favorite.