To make this delicious whole wheat cinnamon cake, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup light brown sugar
2/3 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Walnut Streusel Topping

For an added crunch and sweetness, consider making a walnut streusel topping with these ingredients:

1 1/3 cups chopped walnuts
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Preparing the Batter

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, yogurt or buttermilk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.

Combine Mixtures: Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Incorporate Butter: Gently fold in the melted butter in three additions until the batter is smooth.

Baking the Cake

Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If using the optional walnut streusel, sprinkle half of it over the batter before pouring the remaining batter on top. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the streusel on top.

Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This whole wheat cinnamon vanilla extract cake is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Serve it warm with butter, or enjoy it plain. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal choice for a cozy morning or an afternoon treat.

Incorporating vanilla extract into your baking not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful aroma to your kitchen. This whole wheat cinnamon cake recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the wholesome benefits of whole grains while indulging in a sweet treat. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast item or a dessert, this recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor the deliciousness of your homemade creation!

• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 2/3 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted