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Get ready to infuse your kitchen with the cozy scent of cinnamon and sugar! This incredible Snickerdoodle Cake brings all the beloved flavors of the classic cookie into a moist, tender, and effortlessly delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. It’s truly a slice of pure comfort!
Why You’ll Love This Snickerdoodle Cake
This delightful Snickerdoodle Cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience! Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire:
- Irresistibly Cozy Flavor: Enjoy the classic, warm cinnamon-sugar profile you adore from snickerdoodle cookies, now in a dreamy cake form.
- Perfectly Moist Texture: Thanks to buttermilk, every bite is incredibly tender and rich, never dry.
- Effortlessly Simple: This recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy evening, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles and compliments.
- Beautifully Aromatic: As it bakes, your home will fill with the most comforting and inviting aroma.
- Versatile Treat: Serve it plain, with a dollop of cream, or alongside your favorite warm beverage.
Ingredients Needed for Your Perfect Snickerdoodle Cake
Crafting this simple yet spectacular Snickerdoodle Cake requires just a few pantry staples. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will always yield the best results for a truly exceptional flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened. Choose good quality butter; it makes a difference in flavor and texture.
- Granulated Sugar: 1 1/2 cups for the cake, plus 2 tablespoons for the topping.
- Large Eggs: 2. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. Pure vanilla extract offers the best, most aromatic flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/4 cups (about 270g). Measure accurately by spooning flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off.
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon.
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. A pinch balances the sweetness.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml). If you don’t have buttermilk, combine 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons for the irresistible topping.
YOU MIGHT LOVE: Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies – A quick and delightful treat with all the warmth of cinnamon sugar!
Essential Equipment for This Snickerdoodle Cake
Having the right tools makes baking this cozy cake a breeze. You likely already own most of these!
- 9×13 inch Baking Pan: This standard size is perfect for an evenly baked sheet cake.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for creaming butter and sugar and combining the batter.
- Small Mixing Bowl: Handy for whisking dry ingredients and mixing the cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: An electric mixer makes creaming butter and sugar quicker and fluffier, but a sturdy whisk works too.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements, crucial for baking success.
- Wooden Skewer or Toothpick: To test the cake’s doneness, ensuring it’s baked through without being dry.
Recipe Overview
Get ready to bake a delicious Snickerdoodle Cake without spending all day in the kitchen. Here’s a quick look at the time commitment:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 slices
- Difficulty: Easy
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Snickerdoodle Cake
Follow these clear steps to create a wonderfully moist and flavorful Snickerdoodle Cake. Precision and care are key to achieving the perfect texture and taste.
Prepare Your Pan and Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, generously grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, ensuring the cake won’t stick.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy, typically 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air for a tender cake.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure even leavening.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a tough cake.
Assemble and Bake
- Pour the smooth cake batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for the topping. Mix them together well.
- Sprinkle this aromatic cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface of the cake batter. This creates the signature snickerdoodle crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If it’s still wet, bake for a few more minutes.
Cool and Serve
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the cake set and makes it easier to handle.
CHECK OUT: Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Bread – A delightful twist that brings autumnal flavors to your favorite cookie-inspired treat.

Tips for Success with This Snickerdoodle Cake
Achieve bakery-quality results with these expert tips for your Snickerdoodle Cake:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth, emulsified batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined to keep your cake tender.
- Accurate Flour Measurement: Spoon and level your flour; scooping directly can add too much, leading to a dry cake.
- Even Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the topping uniformly for a consistent crust in every bite.
- Test for Doneness: Use a wooden skewer in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked.
Variations & Substitutions for Your Snickerdoodle Cake
Feel free to get creative with your Snickerdoodle Cake!
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free buttermilk alternative (plant-based milk + lemon juice).
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra decadent treat, top with a simple cream cheese frosting instead of just cinnamon sugar.
- Nutmeg Twist: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar topping for a slightly different warm spice note.
Serving Suggestions for Snickerdoodle Cake
This delightful Snickerdoodle Cake shines on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate the experience:
- Simple & Sweet: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or a refreshing iced tea.
- Fruit Pairing: A side of fresh berries or sliced apples complements the cinnamon notes beautifully.
- Warm Beverages: Pair with a classic hot chocolate, a cozy chai latte, or a steaming mug of apple cider for ultimate comfort.
Health Benefits of Snickerdoodle Cake
While this Snickerdoodle Cake is a delicious indulgence, it also offers some noteworthy nutritional aspects:
- Energy Boost: Carbohydrates from flour and sugar provide quick energy.
- Protein Content: Eggs contribute a modest amount of protein (4g per serving).
- Calcium: Buttermilk provides some calcium, beneficial for bone health.
- Balanced Indulgence: At 350 calories per serving, it’s a treat that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage & Reheating Your Snickerdoodle Cake
Keep your delicious Snickerdoodle Cake fresh and enjoyable for longer with these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: To extend freshness, refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the whole cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices briefly in the microwave for a just-baked taste, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snickerdoodle Cake
Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious Snickerdoodle Cake:
Can I make this Snickerdoodle Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, and it will remain moist and delicious.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily make a substitute! Combine 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles slightly.
Can I add a frosting to this Snickerdoodle Cake?
Certainly! A simple cream cheese frosting would be a wonderful addition, or even a light vanilla glaze if you prefer something less rich.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Ensure you thoroughly grease and flour your baking pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper after greasing for extra insurance.
Why did my cake turn out dry?
A common reason for dry cake is overmixing the batter or overbaking. Mix until just combined and always check for doneness with a skewer.
More Delicious Dishes
Craving more cozy, sweet treats or easy-to-bake desserts? Explore these other fantastic recipes that are sure to satisfy:
- Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping – Perfect for breakfast or dessert, bursting with apple and cinnamon flavors.
- Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake – An elegant cake featuring a beautiful cinnamon ribbon throughout.
- Easy Baked Churro Bites – All the fun of churros in a baked, bite-sized format, coated in cinnamon sugar.
Conclusion
This Snickerdoodle Cake truly captures the essence of a beloved cookie in a simple, moist, and utterly delightful cake. It’s the perfect treat to bake when you need a little warmth and comfort. Happy baking! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious recipes.
Snickerdoodle Cake
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Snickerdoodle Cake takes the classic cookie’s beloved cinnamon-sugar flavor and transforms it into a wonderfully moist and tender cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for cake)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the cake batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth, even batter, ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent a tough cake texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Snickerdoodle Cake, cinnamon cake, easy cake recipe, buttermilk cake, dessert, baked goods, cozy dessert, homemade cake

