Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cake Batter
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry, mixing until just combined. Stir in melted butter until smooth.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon. Cut in softened butter with a fork until crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour half the batter into the pan. Sprinkle cinnamon swirl evenly over the batter. Pour remaining batter on top. Gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter with a knife for a marbled effect.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Make the Icing (while cake cools)
Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Frost and Enjoy!
Once the cake is completely cool, frost with the cream cheese icing. Slice and serve!
Keto/Low-Carb Variations
For a keto or low-carb version:
- Cake: Substitute almond or coconut flour for all-purpose flour. Use a low-carb sweetener (erythritol or stevia) instead of granulated sugar.
- Icing: Replace powdered sugar with powdered erythritol or a similar low-carb sweetener. Adjust milk as needed.
Tips & Tricks
- Use unsalted butter to control salt levels.
- Add extra cinnamon for a stronger flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) over the cinnamon swirl for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Bake, cool, and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can freeze the un-iced cake for up to 1 month; thaw and frost before serving.
Can I use salted butter?
Use unsalted for better control over salt. If using salted, reduce the salt in the cake batter by half.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Adjust baking time accordingly and monitor closely to prevent overbaking.
Can I skip the icing?
Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own.
ADVERTISEMENT
