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Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square (9x9) baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
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Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients.
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Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together all the wet ingredients until smooth.
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Step 4: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined. Do not overmix.
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Step 5: In a small bowl, stir together all the Cinnamon Swirl ingredients until well combined.
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Step 6: Spread about one-third of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
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Step 7: Spoon over some of the cinnamon swirl mixture. Using a toothpick or knife, gently swirl it through the batter without fully mixing it in.
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Step 8: Add another one-third of the batter, followed by more of the cinnamon swirl mixture. Swirl again gently.
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Step 9: Spread the remaining batter on top, add the remaining cinnamon swirl (saving just a tiny bit less for the last layer if needed), and gently swirl one final time.
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Step 10: Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Step 11: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before glazing.
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Step 12: Spread the Cream Cheese Glaze over the cooled cake and finish with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon, if desired.