Brown Sugar Bundt Cake Recipe

 Few things offer comfort quite like the rich flavor and satisfying texture of a homemade bundt cake. If you're looking for a dessert that's both simple to make and absolutely decadent, this Brown Sugar Bundt Cake is the treat you've been waiting for. Its deep caramel-like sweetness, moist crumb, and buttery finish make it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a party, need a dessert for a holiday dinner, or simply want to treat yourself, this cake is the perfect choice.

Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to creating your own Brown Sugar Bundt Cake. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Let's get started!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) packed brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

For the Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended):

• ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Generously grease a 10-cup bundt pan with butter or nonstick spray, ensuring all the crevices are covered. For added protection against sticking, lightly dust the pan with flour, then tap out the excess.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed during this process.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture (flour, buttermilk, flour). Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cake dense.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8 (Optional): Make the Glaze

While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. Combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled cake for a glossy, elegant finish.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth, cohesive batter.
• Don’t Skimp on Greasing: Bundt pans are notorious for their intricate designs, which can cause sticking. Pay extra attention to greasing and flouring every crevice.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different. Start checking the cake around the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
• Add Mix-Ins: For extra texture, fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts before pouring the batter into the pan.

Serving Suggestions

This Brown Sugar Bundt Cake is fabulous on its own, but there are plenty of ways to dress it up. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish. For a seasonal touch, pair it with a warm spiced apple cider or a cup of steaming coffee.

This cake also keeps well, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

When you're ready to slice into this tender, flavor-packed bundt cake, you'll know you've brought a little bit of magic to your table. Enjoy every bite!