Classic Brown Sugar Bundt Cake with Tender Crumb

Prep: 15 minCook: 1 hr 30 min16 servingsmediumAmerican
Classic Brown Sugar Bundt Cake with Tender Crumb

This rich bundt cake combines brown and granulated sugars for deep caramel flavor and incredibly moist texture. The addition of sour cream creates an exceptionally tender crumb, while a hint of vinegar and baking soda provides the perfect rise. Perfect for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or when you want an impressive dessert that's surprisingly simple to make. The classic bundt shape makes beautiful slices that showcase the cake's golden-brown color and fine texture.

Ingredients

16 servings
  • ¾ cup butter, softened
    vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

    may affect texture slightly

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
    coconut sugar1:1unrefined

    nuttier flavor

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces sour cream
    Greek yogurt1:1tangy

    similar moisture and tang

    Full guide →
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven and prepare bundt pan with nonstick spray or shortening and flour, removing excess flour

  2. 2

    Cream butter and both sugars until light and fluffy

  3. 3

    Add sour cream and incorporate eggs one at a time until well combined

  4. 4

    Mix in flour, salt, and vanilla extract

  5. 5

    Stir in baking soda, then add white vinegar

  6. 6

    Pour batter into prepared bundt pan

  7. 7

    Bake until skewer inserted comes out clean

  8. 8

    Rest in pan to cool before removing to wire rack

Tips

Tip 1

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and smoother batter texture.

Tip 2

Thoroughly grease every crevice of the bundt pan to prevent sticking and ensure clean release.

Tip 3

Don't overmix once flour is added to maintain tender crumb structure.

Good to Know

Storage

Cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Make Ahead

Can be made 1-2 days ahead; wrap well and store at room temperature.

Serve With

Serve at room temperature, optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Avoid overmixing after adding flour to prevent tough, dense texture.

Watch

Don't skip greasing every crevice of bundt pan to prevent sticking.

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

butter
vegan butter1:1vegandairy-free

may affect texture slightly

Full guide →

General Alternatives

sour cream
Greek yogurt1:1tangy

similar moisture and tang

Full guide →
brown sugar
coconut sugar1:1unrefined

nuttier flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes, substitute with equal amount Greek yogurt or buttermilk for similar tangy flavor and moisture.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a wooden skewer into the deepest part; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I freeze this bundt cake?

Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before serving.