cinnamon chocolate chip cake

Published on November 27, 2025
4.8 (245 reviews)

Imagine the aroma of fresh‑baked cake mingling with a whisper of cinnamon—this cinnamon chocolate chip cake delivers that exact moment. The batter stays tender, the crumb stays moist, and the chocolat

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cinnamon chocolate chip cake
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
35 min
Servings
12

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✓ Warm Spice, Sweet Crunch: The cinnamon adds a comforting heat that balances the rich chocolate chips, creating a flavor duet that feels both familiar and exciting.
✓ One‑Bowl Simplicity: All ingredients combine in a single bowl, so cleanup is minimal and the batter stays perfectly smooth.
✓ Crowd‑Pleaser: Kids love the chocolate, adults appreciate the spice—making it ideal for brunches, potlucks, or a cozy night in.

Imagine the aroma of fresh‑baked cake mingling with a whisper of cinnamon—this cinnamon chocolate chip cake delivers that exact moment. The batter stays tender, the crumb stays moist, and the chocolate pockets melt into sweet pockets of joy. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or letting it cool for a portable snack, this cake strikes the perfect balance between comforting spice and indulgent chocolate.

1 tsp ground cinnamon Freshly ground gives the brightest flavor.
½ tsp baking soda Ensures a light, airy crumb.
¼ tsp salt Balances sweetness.
¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened Can replace with ¾ cup coconut oil for dairy‑free.
1 cup (200 g) brown sugar Adds moisture and caramel notes.
2 large eggs, room temperature For a smooth, glossy batter.
½ cup (120 ml) whole‑milk Swap with almond or oat milk for a lighter taste.
1 ½ cups (260 g) semi‑sweet chocolate chips Reserve a handful for topping.

Instructions

cinnamon chocolate chip cake
1

Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9‑inch round pan and line the base with parchment. This prevents sticking and gives a clean edge.

Pro Tip: Use a metal pan for a slightly crispier crust.
2

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl whisk flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This distributes the spice and leavening for a uniform rise.

Pro Tip: Sift the flour mixture for an extra‑light crumb.
3

Cream Butter & Sugar

Beat butter and brown sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This incorporates air, giving the cake lift.

Pro Tip: Scrape the sides frequently for an even mixture.
4

Combine Wet & Dry

Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then pour in milk and the flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Over‑mixing creates a dense crumb.

Pro Tip: Fold in ¾ cup of chocolate chips; reserve the rest for topping.
5

Bake & Cool

Transfer batter to the pan, sprinkle the remaining chips on top, and bake 30‑35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool 10 minutes, then release onto a wire rack.

Pro Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Expert Tips

Tip #1: Chill the Batter

Refrigerate the batter 20 minutes before baking; it reduces spreading and yields a taller, moister crumb.

Tip #2: Use Real Cinnamon

Ground Ceylon cinnamon offers a sweeter, less pungent flavor than Cassia, enhancing the cake’s aroma.

Tip #3: Add a Pinch of Espresso

A tiny amount of instant espresso powder deepens the chocolate flavor without tasting coffee.

Tip #4: Serve Warm

A warm slice pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage & Variations

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for 2 months. Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate and add toasted walnuts for a festive twist, or replace cinnamon with pumpkin spice for autumn flair.

Nutrition

Per serving (1 slice)

Calories
280 kcal
Fat
12 g
Carbs
38 g
Protein
4 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Replace all‑purpose flour with a 1‑to‑1 gluten‑free blend. Add a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend lacks it to maintain structure.

The brown sugar and butter provide moisture. Do not over‑bake; the cake should still be slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven.

Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax‑egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg), and choose dairy‑free milk. The texture remains tender.

Recipe Summary

Prep
3 min
Cook
30 min
Total
33 min
Servings
4
Category: Desserts recipes
Cuisine: International
Difficulty: Easy
Course: Main
Quick Tips
  • Make ahead friendly
  • Freezer safe 3 months
  • Easily doubled
  • Customizable

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all‑purpose flour
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole‑milk
  • 1 ½ cups (260 g) semi‑sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1
Preheat & Prep

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9‑inch round pan and line the base with parchment. This prevents sticking and gives a clean edge....

2
Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl whisk flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This distributes the spice and leavening for a uniform rise....

3
Cream Butter & Sugar

Beat butter and brown sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This incorporates air, giving the cake lift....

4
Combine Wet & Dry

Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then pour in milk and the flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Over‑mixing creates a dense crumb....

5
Bake & Cool

Transfer batter to the pan, sprinkle the remaining chips on top, and bake 30‑35 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool 10 minutes, then release onto a wire ...

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