Easy Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe for Cozy Moments

My grandmother’s secret spice cake with eggnog buttercream always brings magic to holiday gatherings.

Warm cinnamon and nutmeg dance through each delectable slice, creating memories that linger long after dessert.

Festive bakers appreciate how simple ingredients can craft something extraordinary.

Seasonal comforts like this recipe connect us to cherished traditions.

Nutmeg’s gentle warmth and rich eggnog frosting promise a delightful experience for anyone seeking a classic treat.

Rich, moist layers whisper stories of cozy winter afternoons.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to create a similar tangy effect.

• Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

• How can I prevent my cake from being dry?

Don’t overmix the batter and be careful not to overbake. The applesauce in this recipe helps keep the cake moist. Use a toothpick test to check doneness and remove the cake from the oven as soon as it comes out clean.

• Can I prepare the buttercream in advance?

Yes, you can make the eggnog buttercream up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-whip to restore its fluffy texture.

Spice Cake Paired with Eggnog Buttercream That Screams Holiday

Whip Up Holiday Magic: Festive Flavor Explosion

• Craft Seasonal Showstopper: This spice cake transforms ordinary baking into a stunning dessert that looks like it jumped straight out of a professional bakery's display case.
• Zero Complicated Techniques: Home bakers can easily master this recipe with straightforward mixing and assembling steps, making it perfect for all skill levels from beginner to experienced.
• Create Wow-Worthy Presentation
• Celebrate Winter Gatherings: Ideal for holiday parties, family dinners, and festive occasions where you want a dessert that captures the warmth and spice of the season.

Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Ingredient List

• All-Purpose Flour: Classic base for tender cake texture.
• Baking Powder: Helps cake rise and become fluffy.
• Baking Soda: Provides additional leavening.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor.
• Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves: Warm holiday spice blend.

• Butter: Rich and creamy foundation.
• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and moisture.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds deep flavor complexity.
• Buttermilk: Creates tender, soft crumb.
• Applesauce: Increases moisture and softness.

• Butter: Creamy base for frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet texture.
• Eggnog: Adds festive holiday flavor.
• Vanilla Extract, Nutmeg: Enhance overall taste.

• Cranberries, Star Anise, Cinnamon Sticks, Rosemary Sprigs: Decorative holiday elements.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates snowy effect.

Baking Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pans

Set your oven to 350°F. Grab three 8-inch cake pans and coat them with cooking spray or butter. Line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground ginger
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves

Set this magical spice mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and looks like clouds dancing together. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and mix until everything is perfectly combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the dry spice mixture into the wet ingredients. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Gently fold in applesauce for extra moisture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Whip Up Eggnog Buttercream

Beat butter until it becomes creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then pour in eggnog, vanilla, and a hint of nutmeg. Mix until the frosting is light and fluffy like fresh snow.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of eggnog buttercream. Carefully stack the remaining layers, adding frosting between each.

Step 9: Create a Festive Finish

• Fresh cranberries
• Star anise
• Cinnamon sticks
• Rosemary sprigs

Dust the entire cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a magical winter wonderland effect.

Spice Cake Tips That Pair Perfectly with Eggnog Frosting

• Prevent Dry Cake: Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and a moist texture. Cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven baking and a dense, dry cake.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Toast spices briefly in a dry pan before adding to the batter to release their essential oils and intensify the warm, rich flavor profile of the cake.
• Buttercream Perfection: Sift powdered sugar before adding to prevent lumps and create an ultra-smooth, silky buttercream that spreads like a dream.
• Make It Ahead: Wrap cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze up to a week in advance. Freeze them completely flat to maintain their shape and moisture.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a plant-based version that keeps the cake's tender crumb.

Store Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream for Later

• Store covered cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep cake away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor absorption.
• Wrap completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
• Individually wrap cake slices in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
• Warm refrigerated cake slices in microwave for 10-15 seconds. For frozen slices, thaw completely before gently warming to maintain moisture and texture.

Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Flavor Picks

• Pair with Festive Beverages: Serve this spice cake alongside warm mulled wine or a classic old fashioned cocktail for a delightful winter evening treat.
• Create Complementary Cheese Plate: Arrange a selection of creamy goat cheese, aged cheddar, and blue cheese to balance the cake's sweet and spicy flavors, offering a sophisticated tasting experience.
• Match with Winter Spirits: Pour a small glass of spiced rum, bourbon, or brandy to enhance the cake's warm spice notes and provide a cozy, luxurious drinking companion.
• Serve with Seasonal Tea: Brew a cup of chai tea or cinnamon-apple herbal tea to echo the cake's warming spices and create a comforting dessert moment.

Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Options

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum for better texture.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace eggnog buttercream with coconut cream frosting.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free eggnog substitute with cashew cream and maple syrup.
• Low-Sugar Option: Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener, reduce overall sugar content, and use sugar-free eggnog for buttercream.

Merry Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Spice cake with eggnog buttercream brings winter holiday warmth to dessert tables with rich, comforting flavors. Fragrant cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger mingle beautifully with creamy eggnog frosting, creating a festive treat that welcomes you home.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients:

• 3 cups (710 ml) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce

Spice Blend:

• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Flavor Enhancer:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F and prepare three 8-inch cake pans with grease and parchment paper.
2. Combine flour, leavening agents, salt, and warm spices in a mixing bowl, thoroughly blending the dry components.
3. Cream butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and airy, using an electric mixer for optimal texture.
4. Incorporate eggs individually into the butter mixture, ensuring complete integration after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Gently fold dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Add applesauce and mix until just combined.
6. Distribute batter evenly across prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick. Allow cakes to rest in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
7. Prepare buttercream by whipping butter until smooth, gradually introducing powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla, and a hint of nutmeg until achieving a silky consistency.
8. Construct the cake by layering each cake round with buttercream, creating a delicate stack with minimal frosting on the exterior.
9. Enhance presentation by adorning the top with festive elements like cranberries, star anise, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary sprigs, then dust with a light snowfall of powdered sugar.

Notes

• Achieve the perfect texture by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, which helps create a smoother, more evenly blended batter.
• Substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and vinegar if you don’t have it on hand, using 1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Modify for gluten-free diets by replacing all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend, maintaining the same measurements and mixing technique.
• Reduce sugar content by using alternative sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia, adjusting the quantity to maintain the cake’s moisture and desired sweetness level.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg