Spice Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something special about a warm, spiced dessert that feels like a big hug. It reminds you of home, whether it’s a cold autumn day or a family get-together. An easy spice cake brings back memories of good times and tasty meals.

Imagine biting into a moist spice cake, filled with cinnamon and nutmeg. Then, you find a layer of creamy cream cheese frosting. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a piece of joy to share with your family. So, let’s start making this amazing spice cake for your next event.

Key Takeaways

• Spice cake is a comforting dessert that evokes nostalgia.
• Rich cream cheese frosting enhances the flavor profile of the cake.
• This recipe is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
• Easy to make with a blend of spices that perfect the taste.
• Creating your own spice cake adds a personal touch to your dessert table.

Introduction to Spice Cake

Spice cake is a treat many people enjoy in the fall and winter. It combines warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This creates a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.

This dessert brings comfort and nostalgia. It’s a favorite at gatherings and celebrations. The rich flavors of spice cake are enhanced by nuts like pecans and walnuts. They add a crunchy texture that goes well with the soft cake.

Whether enjoyed on its own or with cream cheese frosting, spice cake is loved by all. It’s a perfect choice for any occasion.

The History of Spice Cake

Spice cake’s history goes back to the Middle Ages. Back then, spices were key for flavor and to keep desserts fresh. Sugar was rare, so spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves were very valuable. As sugar became more common, cakes could be sweeter, creating the spice cake we love today.

Spice cake is a big part of holiday celebrations. It shows up at festive events. When you try different cake recipes, you see how spices and flavors change. Enjoying spice cake is like traveling through time, connecting you to old baking traditions.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Spice Cake

Creating a delicious spice cake starts with the right ingredients. The right mix can turn a simple dessert into a standout. Let’s explore the key ingredients for the cake and the cream cheese frosting.

Key Ingredients for the Cake

The heart of a great spice cake is its ingredients for spice cake. The main ingredients are:

• All-purpose flour: It gives the cake structure and balance.
• Brown sugar: It adds sweetness and a caramel flavor.
• Cinnamon and ginger: These spices add warmth and aroma.
• Eggs: They help bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Buttermilk: It makes the cake tender and adds a tangy taste.

Together, these ingredients make a moist and tasty cake. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Essential Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting

A delicious spice cake needs a rich topping. A simple cream cheese frosting recipe includes:

• Cream cheese: It’s the main ingredient, adding richness and tanginess.
• Butter: It makes the frosting smooth and enhances the flavor.
• Powdered sugar: It sweetens the frosting and gives it the right texture.
• Vanilla extract: It adds a touch of flavor for balance.

With these ingredients, your frosting will perfectly match the spice cake. It’s a treat that will impress at any event.

How to Prepare Your Spice Cake

Preparing spice cake right can really make a difference. It’s all about the techniques you use. Start by preheating your oven and getting your pans ready.

Steps for Mixing Ingredients

First, gather all your ingredients. Separate them into dry and wet parts for an easy mix. Mix the dry stuff—flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt—in one bowl. Then, mix the sugar, eggs, and oil in another until it’s smooth.

Now, fold the dry mix into the wet one gently. This helps keep your cake fluffy and light.

Baking Tips for Perfect Moisture

To keep your cake moist, follow some key tips. Use a non-stick pan to prevent over-browning. Check if it’s done with a toothpick; it should come out clean but a bit crumbly.

Let it cool completely in the pan before moving it to a wire rack. This way, your spice cake will be moist and full of flavor.

Enhancing Your Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Spice cake gets even better with cream cheese frosting. This frosting brings moisture and a tangy sweetness. It perfectly matches the cake’s cinnamon and spice flavors. Making the frosting is easy. Just cream softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then add powdered sugar for sweetness. A bit of vanilla extract can make it even better.

For a smooth frosting, mix until it’s light and fluffy. This makes it easy to spread on your cake.

Here are some tips for using cream cheese frosting:

• Make sure your cream cheese is soft for easy mixing.
• Add powdered sugar slowly to control sweetness and texture.
• Mix until it’s light and fluffy for the best feel.

Using this frosting can make your spice cake special for any event. A well-decorated cake is not just tasty but also a stunning centerpiece. With the right layering and decoration, your cake will be the highlight of the dessert table.

Optional Additions: Nuts and Spices

Think about adding nuts to spice cake to boost texture and taste. Nuts like pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. Toasting them first makes them taste richer and nuttier.

Types of Nuts to Consider

Pecans and walnuts are top picks for their unique tastes and textures. Here are some options you might like:

• Pecans – Their buttery texture and sweet flavor mix well with spices.
• Walnuts – They add a slightly bitter taste that balances the cake’s sweetness.
• Almonds – Slivered or chopped, they offer a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.

Adjusting Spice Levels for Personal Preference

Customizing your spice cake means adjusting spice levels and adding nuts. Start by tasting the batter to decide on spice levels. If you want more flavor, add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. Experiment to make the cake your own and enhance flavors.

Presentation Tips for Your Spice Cake

Creating a stunning cake presentation can make your spice cake even more enjoyable. The first look at your cake can set the mood for your guests. Use simple yet effective decoration techniques to make your dessert a highlight on any table.

Decorating with Pecans and Other Toppings

Try using pecans around your cake’s base or on top for a tasty touch. You can also use crumbled cake as a topping. Add cinnamon or drizzle frosting in a creative way. These touches not only look great but also add to the cake’s flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Gatherings

When serving spice cake, how you present it matters a lot. Cut the cake into even slices to show off its moistness and color. Place the slices on a fancy plate or cake stand for a beautiful display. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a delicious combo.

For more ideas on making your cake look amazing, check out this great resource.

Top each slice with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a fancy finish. These ideas will not only impress your guests but also make the flavors even better.

Storage Tips for Your Spice Cake

Storing your spice cake right is key to keeping it fresh. Let it cool completely on a wire rack first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use an airtight container. This keeps the cake moist and tasty.

If you’re saving the cake for later, there are good ways to do it. Refrigeration can keep it fresh for up to a week. Freezing is even better for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn. To thaw, let it sit in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.

Here’s a quick guide on how to store your spice cake:

Quick Variations on the Classic Recipe

Exploring spice cake variations opens up a world of creative baking. You can try different sizes and flavors to make this classic recipe even better. This section will show you how to turn your spice cake into mini cakes or cupcakes and find new flavor combinations.

Making Mini Cakes or Cupcakes

To make mini cakes or cupcakes, just adjust the baking time. Mini cakes can bake in 15-20 minutes, which is great for special events. They’re perfect for gatherings where everyone gets their own treat.

For the best results, use a standard cupcake pan. Fill each cup about two-thirds full with the batter.

Introducing Unique Flavor Combinations

Try adding unique ingredients to create exciting spice cake variations. Orange zest, coconut, or chocolate can add new flavors. These twists make the traditional spice cake feel fresh and exciting.

Conclusion

Making spice cake with cream cheese frosting is more than baking. It’s about creating a warm, welcoming experience for yourself and your loved ones. This easy old-fashioned spice cake recipe brings back traditional flavors. It connects generations and adds comfort to any gathering.

The cake’s aromatic spices and rich frosting make it a hit for any occasion. It’s perfect for celebrations or just a special treat.

Exploring different spice cake recipes is exciting. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients. This cake’s versatility lets you add your own special touches.

Whether it’s changing the spices or adding your favorite nuts, the possibilities are endless. You can make it your own.

Final thoughts: Choosing this classic cake means embracing a piece of culinary history. It’s a delightful dessert that can become a staple in your baking routine. With each slice, you’ll enjoy a satisfying blend of flavors. This old-fashioned treat not only delights your taste buds but also creates lasting memories.

Easy Old Fashioned Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Spice Cake is moist, rich, and full of warm flavors. Perfect with cream cheese frosting or on its own!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Breakfast / Brunch / Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 537 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Spice Cake:

• 1 ⅔ cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ⅓ cup salted butter room temperature
• ¾ cup light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs room temperature
• ⅔ cup buttermilk room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract​

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 6 tablespoons salted butter room temperature
• 6 ounces cream cheese room temperature
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

 

• Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare Cake Pans: Grease and flour your desired cake pans (e.g., 9×13-inch or two 9-inch round pans).
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together cake flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
• Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the vegetable oil, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Combine with Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
• Bake: Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool: Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
• Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
• Assemble Cake: Once cakes are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top (and between layers if applicable).

Keyword spice cake, cream cheese frosting, fall dessert, holiday baking, old-fashioned recipe