Go Back
Cinnamon Yeast Cake is a cherished dessert that marries the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the airy, delightful texture of a yeast cake. This beloved treat has its roots in Eastern European Jewish cuisine, where it often graced the Shabbat table, adding a sweet conclusion to the weekly celebration. The aromatic blend of cinnamon and sugar creates a swirl of flavor perfect for any occasion, whether it's a festive holiday or a simple family gathering. Serve it warm with a cup of tea or coffee, and you'll have a sure-fire hit that brings joy and nostalgia in every bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 1 cup warm water about 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons margarine melted, or use a kosher pareve butter substitute
Topping
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
  2. Add the sugar, canola oil, eggs, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
  1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted margarine until well combined.
Assemble the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
  4. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then coil it into a greased cake pan or bundt pan.
  5. Cover the assembled cake with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake and Serve
  1. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle it over the risen cake.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.