Spice Cake Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about spice cake. With its warm, aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a cozy hug in a slice. Each bite envelops you in a tender, moist texture that makes it perfect for any occasion, whether celebrating a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply enjoying an afternoon tea. Not only does the fragrance of toasting spices fill your kitchen, but it also invites everyone to indulge in this delightful treat. Ideal for pairing with cream cheese frosting, this spice cake is a timeless classic you’ll want to share with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or light flavored olive oil: Provides moisture and richness to the cake without overwhelming other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and sweetness, the essence of a classic spice cake.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg: Offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor profile.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ginger: Imparts a warm, zesty kick that complements the other spices.
• 3/4 teaspoon cloves: Adds depth and an earthy note to the spice blend.
• 3/4 teaspoon cardamom: Provides a unique flavor that elevates the cake’s overall taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice: Enhances the cake with a mix of cinnamon and clove notes.
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks, softened): Creates a rich flavor and a tender crumb.
• 2 cups brown sugar (packed): Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness of brown sugar for a well-rounded flavor.
• 5 large eggs: Essential for structure and moisture in the cake.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and keeps the cake moist.
• 2 teaspoons Mexican vanilla extract: Includes a nuanced flavor that enhances the cake’s richness.
• 1 teaspoon almond extract: Introduces a sweet note that pairs beautifully with spices.
• 2 tablespoons molasses: Brings depth and a rich, dark sweetness to the cake.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Ensures a moist texture and adds tang to balance the sweetness.
• 3 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (sifted): Forms the base and structure of the cake.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the cake.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent for the perfect rise.
• A double batch of Cream Cheese Frosting or Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting: Provides a creamy, rich topping that complements the spiced flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spices: Heat a small pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and allspice. Pour this spice mixture into the hot oil, toasting for 1 minute until fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool.

2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking.

3. Prepare the Cake Pans: Line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar, beating the mixture for 2 minutes until fluffy and well combined.

5. Combine Oils and Butter Mixture: Add the cooled spiced oil to the butter-sugar mixture and blend well.

6. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, Mexican vanilla extract, almond extract, molasses, and sour cream until fully combined.

7. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking powder.

8. Combine All Ingredients: Gradually mix the egg mixture and the flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing only until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

9. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 27-30 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through to ensure even baking.

10. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

11. Frost the Cake: Once fully cooled, frost the cakes with your desired cream cheese frosting or whipped cream cheese frosting.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 12-16
• Calories: Approximately 460 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Be careful not to overmix when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep the cake tender.
• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Variations: For a more robust flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter. You can also experiment with different extracts such as coconut or rum for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of oil?
   Yes, you can use any neutral oil, but olive oil will add a slight flavor.

2. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
   You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

3. How do I know when the cake is done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

4. Can I bake this cake as cupcakes?
   Yes, bake at 350°F for about 18-20 minutes for cupcakes.

5. What is the best way to frost a layered cake?
   Chill the cake layers in the fridge before frosting to prevent crumbling and make frosting easier.

6. How do I achieve a fluffy texture?
   Make sure to cream the butter and sugars well, and do not overmix once you add the dry ingredients.

People Also Ask

1. What is the difference between spice cake and gingerbread?
   Spice cake is typically lighter and contains a variety of spices, while gingerbread is denser and focuses primarily on ginger and molasses.

2. Can I use different sugars?
   You can use a mix of brown sugar and coconut sugar for a unique flavor, but the texture may vary slightly.

3. Should I use fresh ground spices?
   Fresh ground spices will give the cake a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground.

4. What equipment do I need to make spice cake?
   You will need mixing bowls, a mixer, measuring cups, and three 9-inch round cake pans.

5. How do I decorate a spice cake?
   Use cream cheese frosting and add a sprinkle of cinnamon or pecans for a beautiful touch.

6. Is spice cake served warm or cold?
   Spice cake can be enjoyed at room temperature, but many people love it slightly warmed.

Conclusion

This spice cake recipe brings together the delightful flavors of warming spices to create a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion. We invite you to try this recipe, impress your family and friends, and share the joy of baking. There’s nothing quite like a homemade spice cake to spread warmth and comfort. Happy baking!

Spice Cake

Print Recipe

A warm and comforting spice cake infused with aromatic notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, perfect for any occasion.

• Author: hannah-reed
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 12-16 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or light flavored olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ginger
• 3/4 teaspoon cloves
• 3/4 teaspoon cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1 cup butter (2 sticks, softened)
• 2 cups brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons Mexican vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• A double batch of Cream Cheese Frosting or Whipped Cream Cheese Frosting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spices: Heat a small pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and allspice. Pour this spice mixture into the hot oil, toasting for 1 minute until fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking.
3. Prepare the Cake Pans: Line three 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper and lightly grease them with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the packed brown sugar and granulated sugar, beating the mixture for 2 minutes until fluffy and well combined.
5. Combine Oils and Butter Mixture: Add the cooled spiced oil to the butter-sugar mixture and blend well.
6. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, Mexican vanilla extract, almond extract, molasses, and sour cream until fully combined.
7. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking powder.
8. Combine All Ingredients: Gradually mix the egg mixture and the flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing only until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
9. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 27-30 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through to ensure even baking.
10. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes before inverting them onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
11. Frost the Cake: Once fully cooled, frost the cakes with your desired cream cheese frosting or whipped cream cheese frosting.

Notes

Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: spice cake, dessert, baking, cake, cozy