If you have a soft spot for classic, comforting desserts, then you’re going to adore this one. Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe is like a warm hug in cake form, blending the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon and sugar into a moist, fluffy yellow cake with a rich vanilla pudding base. Whether fresh from the oven or drizzled with that luscious buttery glaze, this cake brings joy to every bite and is sure to become a beloved staple at your family gatherings or cozy afternoons. Let me take you through how easy and rewarding it is to create this timeless treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe truly special happens right from the start with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a part: the yellow cake mix ensures a tender crumb, cinnamon brings that warm, spicy kick, and vanilla pudding adds moistness and depth. Ready to gather the essentials?
- 1 box Duncan Hines yellow cake mix: The base for a perfectly soft and fluffy cake every time.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar and provides a subtle crunch inside the batter.
- 1 large box vanilla pudding instant mix: Secret to the cake’s irresistibly moist texture.
- 2 tsp cinnamon: Gives the cake its signature warm, aromatic flavor.
- 4 eggs: Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 3/4 cup water: Helps create a smooth, pourable batter.
- 3/4 cup oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist as it bakes.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Essential for the optional glaze that adds extra buttery sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the glaze perfectly.
- 1/4 cup water: Combines with butter and sugar to form the glaze.
How to Make Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or your pan of choice to ensure your cake releases easily once baked. This step may sound simple, but it makes all the difference in presentation and slicing.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, brown sugar, white granulated sugar, vanilla pudding mix, and cinnamon. Whisking these together first distributes the spices and sugars evenly, setting a flavorful foundation for your cake.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, water, and oil to your dry mix. Beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well blended. This ensures a uniformly light texture without lumps, readying the batter for baking perfection.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remember to adjust baking time if you opt for a different pan size or shape.
Step 5: Cool Before Glazing
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps it settle and reduces the chance of breaking when you transfer it gently to a wire rack. Cooling is key to the perfect texture and appearance.
Step 6: Optional But Irresistible Glaze
For a glossy, sweet finish, combine melted butter, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Drizzle this warm glaze over the cooled cake, letting it soak in for a decadent shine and extra flavor boost.
How to Serve Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a dash of powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon on top for an elegant, simple touch. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream complement the cake well and add a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon sugar cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a warm mug of coffee or chai tea. Since the cake itself is quite rich and flavorful, simple sides keep the focus on those beloved cinnamon and vanilla notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into wedges and serving it as mini trifles layered with vanilla pudding and cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. You can also create a stunning cake platter by arranging slices with fresh apple or pear slices for a rustic autumn vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Refrigeration isn’t necessary unless your kitchen is very warm.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
If you love your cake slightly warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven for 10 minutes. The warmth brings out the aromas and makes you feel like you just baked it fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix instead of Duncan Hines yellow cake mix?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Duncan Hines yellow cake mix, other brands will work wonderfully as well. Just stick to yellow cake for the classic flavor and texture.
Is the vanilla pudding mix necessary?
The vanilla pudding mix is the secret ingredient that keeps this cake moist and adds a subtle creaminess. It’s highly recommended to include it for the best results.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you’ll need to substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free as well. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What if I don’t want to use the glaze?
The glaze is optional, and your cake will still be delicious without it. The cake itself is moist and flavorful, so feel free to serve it plain or dusted with cinnamon sugar instead.
How long does this cake keep fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this cake stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For extended freshness, freezing is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t beat the simple, heartwarming charm of Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to create smiles with minimal fuss, using ingredients you likely already have at home. I encourage you to try this recipe and see just how easily it becomes a cherished favorite for your own kitchen. After all, nothing compares to the magic of a cake made with love and that perfect cinnamon sugar touch!
Print
Mom’s Best Cinnamon Sugar Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mom’s Best Cake is a moist and flavorful yellow cake enhanced with cinnamon and vanilla pudding for extra tenderness. Perfectly moist and easy to make, this classic bundt cake recipe comes with an optional buttery sugar glaze that adds a lovely sweet finish. It’s a delightful homemade treat ideal for celebrations or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
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
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup oil
Glaze (Optional)
- 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 preferred 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 to create a flavorful base.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Beat: Add the eggs, water, and oil to the dry ingredients. Beat the mixture on medium speed until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the smooth batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Adjust baking time if using a different pan size or type.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set the structure before carefully turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): In a small saucepan, combine melted butter, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze thickens slightly.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the warm glaze evenly over the cooled cake to add a sweet, shiny finish.
Notes
- For best results, use a bundt pan, but other pan shapes are fine—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- The glaze adds moisture and sweetness but is optional if you prefer a less sweet finish.
- Let the cake cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
