1. Prep the Pans and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line 6 to 8 mini loaf pans. You can also use aluminum foil pans like these ones if you’re baking for gifting.
2. Make the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. This mixture will add the iconic sweet swirl that runs through the loaf.
3. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
Cream the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, alternating with sour cream and milk, until just combined. Don’t overmix.
4. Layer and Swirl
Spoon half the batter into each loaf pan. Drizzle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then top with the remaining batter. Use a butter knife to gently swirl the mixture through the batter.
5. Bake
Bake the loaves for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If using a full-size loaf pan, bake for 55–65 minutes.
6. Glaze for Shine (Optional)
While the loaves are still warm, boil the sugar and water together, remove from heat, and stir in vanilla. Brush this syrup over the tops for that glossy, irresistible finish.
Expert Baking Tips
Don’t skip the sour cream – it keeps the loaf moist and tender.
Don’t overmix – mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a tough loaf.
Make it ahead – they taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a pat of butter and coffee.
Slice thick and top with vanilla ice cream and caramel for a quick dessert.
Toast a slice and spread with cream cheese for breakfast.
Storage & Freezing
These mini pound cakes store beautifully!
At room temperature: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temp.
Variations
Cinnamon Apple Swirl: Add 1/2 cup finely diced apples to the swirl mixture.
Maple Glazed Version: Swap the vanilla glaze with a maple syrup reduction.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Replace 1/2 cup of sour cream with pumpkin purée and increase spices.
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Swirl Pound Cake Loaves check all the boxes: easy, crowd-pleasing, freezer-friendly, and utterly delicious. Their rich flavor, soft crumb, and that gorgeous cinnamon ribbon make them a standout whether you’re gifting, snacking, or just treating yourself.
