Name: Spice Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g); 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 tsp ground ginger; ½ tsp ground cloves; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; 2 cups packed light brown sugar (440g); 1 cup vegetable oil (240ml); 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (240ml); ½ cup buttermilk (120ml); 4 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225g); 1 8-ounce / 115g block cream cheese, room temperature; 6 cups powdered sugar (720g); ½ tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to cozy up your dessert game, this Spice Cake is the one to try. It strikes the perfect harmony between warm, aromatic spices and moist, tender crumb, all brought together with a luscious cream cheese frosting that feels like a gentle hug. Every bite bursts with cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, making it a fantastic centerpiece for every season, especially when you want to comfort and impress at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable Spice Cake. Each component plays a special role, whether it’s the flour giving structure, the brown sugar adding depth and moisture, or the carefully chosen spices layering flavor and warmth.

All-purpose flour (3 cups): Provides the sturdy base for a tender but firm cake texture.
Light brown sugar (2 cups, packed): Adds moistness with a hint of caramel sweetness that complements the spices.
Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake delightfully moist and tender.
Unsweetened applesauce (1 cup): An excellent natural ingredient that adds moisture without weight and enhances sweetness subtly.
Buttermilk (½ cup): Offers a slight tang and tender crumb by reacting with the leavening agents.
Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps the cake rise beautifully for that fluffy texture.
Baking soda (½ tsp): Works alongside buttermilk to lighten the batter.
Salt (½ tsp): Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
Ground cinnamon (2 tsp): Delivers classic warmth and earthy sweetness.
Ground ginger (2 tsp): Adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick.
Ground cloves (½ tsp): Provides an intense, aromatic depth that elevates the spice profile.
Ground nutmeg (½ tsp): Finishes the spice blend with a subtle, nutty sweetness.
Large eggs (4): Bind everything together while adding richness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors with its smooth, fragrant notes.
Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): Key for the creamy frosting that crowns the cake.
Cream cheese, room temperature (1 8-ounce block): Creates that signature tangy frosting that balances the sweet spice layers perfectly.
Powdered sugar (6 cups): Whipped into the frosting for a smooth, sweet finish.
Vanilla extract (½ tsp): Added to frosting to bring out its rich flavor.

How to Make Spice Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and give two 9-inch cake pans a thorough spray with non-stick baking spray to ensure your Spice Cake layers come out perfectly smooth and ready for frosting.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the magic spice mix of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Taking the time to blend these dry ingredients well is what locks in that beautiful blend of cozy flavors.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk light brown sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This combination adds body and moisture that’s crucial for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth Spice Cake.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and give it a quick, gentle whisk until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix; you want your cake tender, not tough.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the centers spring back when lightly pressed. Aromas of warming spices will soon fill your kitchen, making the wait utterly worthwhile.

Step 6: Cool and Prep for Frosting

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then gently flip them onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure the frosting won’t melt later!

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened butter and cream cheese on medium speed until silky smooth and fluffy—about 2 minutes. Slowly add powdered sugar, pausing to scrape the bowl so everything blends evenly, then finish with vanilla extract and a final quick whisk until light and luscious.

Step 8: Assemble Your Spice Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving dish, spread about a cup of cream cheese frosting evenly on top, then gently place the next layer over the frosting. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting — sides included — to create a stunning, creamy finish.

How to Serve Spice Cake

Garnishes

Sprinkling a little ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts on top adds an inviting texture and aroma. Alternatively, fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds can provide a vibrant pop of color and a subtle tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet frosting.

Side Dishes

Serve your Spice Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. A warm cup of chai tea or spiced coffee perfectly complements the complex spice notes and makes every forkful even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, try layering the Spice Cake in a trifle dish with spiced fruit compote or apples sautéed with brown sugar and cinnamon. Alternatively, slice it into small squares and serve on a platter dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant party bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Spice Cake holds up wonderfully when stored in the refrigerator, loosely covered or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers just as tempting as freshly baked slices.

Freezing

If you want to keep the Spice Cake longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It freezes well for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and freshness.

Reheating

For that freshly baked feel, warm slices of Spice Cake gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature after thawing. Adding a little cream cheese frosting on top before serving warms up the indulgence perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of flour for the Spice Cake?

All-purpose flour is recommended here for the best texture, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep in mind that whole wheat may make the cake a bit denser, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

Is it possible to make this Spice Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture similar.

Can I use margarine or oil instead of butter for the frosting?

Butter and cream cheese are key for the classic tangy and creamy frosting in this recipe. Using margarine can change the texture and flavor, making it less stable. If you prefer, softened vegetable shortening could be an alternative, but the cream cheese flavor will be less pronounced.

How can I make the Spice Cake more moist?

The combination of vegetable oil, applesauce, and buttermilk already makes this cake wonderfully moist. Avoid overbaking, and consider brushing the layers with a simple syrup infused with vanilla or a splash of orange juice for additional moisture.

Can I make cupcakes using this Spice Cake recipe?

Absolutely! Adjust baking time to 18-22 minutes for cupcakes at 350°F. This recipe translates beautifully to cupcakes, making them perfect for parties or gift-giving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing a Spice Cake. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of comforting spices and moist, tender cake wrapped in creamy frosting. Whether it’s for a holiday, a birthday, or just because you deserve a little treat, this Spice Cake promises to deliver smiles with every slice. Go ahead, give it a try—you’re going to love it!

Spice Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This classic Spice Cake recipe features tender, moist cake layers infused with warm cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. Ideal for cozy occasions and holiday celebrations, this cake offers a delightful balance of spice and sweetness that will impress family and friends.

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, which form the base of your cake’s warm spices.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the brown sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender crumb.
Divide Batter and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and cake springs back when pressed.
Cool Cakes: Allow cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: On low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar, pausing to scrape down the bowl to mix thoroughly. Add vanilla extract and beat on medium-low speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about 1 cup of frosting evenly over the top. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, including the sides, with the remaining frosting.
Decorate and Serve: Decorate the cake as desired. If not serving immediately, cover loosely and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to achieve a smooth frosting.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
You can substitute buttermilk with milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
If frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before frosting the cake.
This cake freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American