Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe
If you’ve ever longed for that perfect cozy dessert that wraps you up in warmth and nostalgia, you are going to fall head over heels for Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe. This cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining a moist, tender crumb with the irresistible swirl of cinnamon and sugar throughout. Every bite is like a sweet hug from home, making it absolutely perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something truly special. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way familiar flavors come together to create a comforting classic that tastes like it was made just for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect flavor, texture, and moistness that make this bundt cake so memorable.
- Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: The base that provides a tender, fluffy texture with a golden color every time.
- Brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses note that deepens the cake’s sweetness and moisture.
- White granulated sugar: Balances the flavors and gives a nice light sweetness.
- Vanilla pudding instant mix: Infuses creaminess and helps keep the cake incredibly moist.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that gives that classic bundt cake its warm, fragrant twist.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- Water: Hydrates the cake mix to create the perfect batter consistency.
- Oil: Keeps the cake soft and tender for days.
- Melted butter: Used for the optional glaze to add a luscious finish and extra butteriness.
- Sugar for glaze: Sweetens the glaze and enhances the visual appeal with a delicate shine.
How to Make Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly so your cake releases easily without sticking. This step sets you up for a beautiful presentation and even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Duncan Hines yellow cake mix, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla pudding instant mix, and cinnamon. This dry mixture forms the flavor-packed foundation of your bundt cake, with the cinnamon bringing that signature touch.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Crack in the eggs, then pour the water and oil over the dry ingredients. Beat everything together on medium speed until the batter is completely smooth and homogenous. This ensures every bite has the perfect crumb and consistent flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter carefully into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Depending on your oven and pan size, keep an eye to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Let It Cool
Once out of the oven, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cake settle and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
Step 6: Optional Glaze for Extra Shine
If you want to elevate the presentation and add a delightful buttery sweetness, make the optional glaze. Combine melted butter, sugar, and water in a small saucepan, and bring to a boil while stirring gently until the sugar dissolves. Drizzle this warm glaze over the cooled cake to give it a glossy finish and an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To really make your bundt cake shine on the table, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkling of cinnamon for a rustic feel. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also complement the warm cinnamon spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs exceptionally well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cup of rich coffee, or a creamy chai latte. These sides balance the sweetness perfectly and create a cozy dessert experience that’s hard to beat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, slice the cake into elegant wedges and serve on a beautiful platter with cinnamon sticks and edible flowers for a charming touch. You can also layer slices with mascarpone and fruit for a stunning trifle that highlights Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe in a whole new way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This maintains the moistness and prevents the flavors from dulling.
Freezing
You can freeze slices or the entire cooled cake wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil. When properly sealed, they will stay fresh for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to enjoy all of Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe’s freshness.
Reheating
If you want to warm up a slice before enjoying it, a gentle zap in the microwave for about 15 seconds or a few minutes in a low oven will do the trick. This brings out the soft texture and amplifies the cinnamon aroma for that homey feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix instead of Duncan Hines yellow?
Absolutely! While the recipe shines with Duncan Hines yellow cake mix, you can experiment with other yellow or even white cake mixes. Just keep in mind the texture may slightly change, but the cinnamon sugar flavor will still be wonderful.
Is the vanilla pudding mix necessary?
The instant vanilla pudding mix is a fantastic addition that keeps the cake moist and tender longer. It’s not mandatory, but skipping it might result in a slightly drier cake.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure all other ingredients, like the pudding mix and cinnamon, are also gluten-free. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
How long will the cake stay fresh at room temperature?
When properly stored in an airtight container, this bundt cake will stay delicious for about three days at room temperature, retaining its moist texture and cinnamon sweetness.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?
Yes! Feel free to stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or a handful of raisins for added texture and flavor. They complement the cinnamon sugar beautifully and add a nice twist.
Final Thoughts
Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe is truly a treasure to keep in your baking repertoire. It’s simple to make, delightfully flavorful, and has that warm, comforting charm that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether for a casual afternoon treat or a special family gathering, this cake promises to bring smiles and happy memories to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and see why it’s a beloved favorite in my kitchen!
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Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Mom’s Best Cake is a moist and flavorful yellow cake made with a blend of Duncan Hines cake mix, vanilla pudding, and warm spices. This easy-to-make bundt cake features a hint of cinnamon and an optional buttery glaze that adds a luscious finish, perfect for any occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 large box vanilla pudding instant mix (approximately 3.4 ounces)
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup oil (vegetable or canola)
Optional Glaze
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or any desired baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, brown sugar, white granulated sugar, vanilla pudding mix, and cinnamon. Stir to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Beat: Add the eggs, water, and oil to the dry mixture. Using a mixer, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and fully combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on the pan size used.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully removing it. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Optional Glaze: While the cake cools, combine the melted butter, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is cool, pour the warm glaze evenly over the cake to add moisture and a shiny finish. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to grease and flour the pan well to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- The vanilla pudding mix adds moisture and a rich flavor to the cake.
- The optional glaze enhances sweetness and keeps the cake moist but can be omitted if preferred.
- Adjust baking time if using different pan sizes; a thicker cake may require additional time.
- Store any leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American