The Best Moist Homemade Spice Cake Recipe for Cozy Fall & Holiday Baking
Prepare to fall in love with this ultimate homemade spice cake recipe! It’s incredibly easy to make, boasts an irresistible moist texture, and is bursting with a harmonious blend of warm, inviting spices. Perfect for any autumn gathering, holiday celebration, or simply as a comforting dessert on a crisp fall evening, this cake promises to be a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Its rich, aromatic flavors and tender crumb make it a truly exceptional treat that everyone will adore.
For several years, my homemade carrot cake recipe has been a standout favorite on my website, captivating countless bakers with its delightful flavor and perfectly moist consistency. The overwhelming positive feedback and love for that recipe truly inspired me. So, when a dedicated reader recently reached out with a special request for a homemade spice cake, I knew it was time to put my baking hat on and create a recipe that would live up to the same high standards.
But what exactly defines a “spice cake”? At its heart, it’s a cake celebrated for its generous incorporation of a carefully chosen medley of ground spices, giving it its characteristic warmth and complexity – hence the name! While it shares some similarities with carrot cake in its moist texture and rich flavor profile, a traditional spice cake typically omits the shredded carrots and often relies on buttermilk to achieve its signature tenderness and moisture. This recipe focuses purely on the aromatic essence of spices, delivering a cozy and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the cooler months.
This particular homemade spice cake recipe is a true masterpiece of flavor, featuring a thoughtful blend of four distinct spices that create a perfectly balanced and utterly delicious taste. Beyond its exquisite flavor, this cake is also incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The process is remarkably simple: you just combine the dry ingredients, whisk together the wet ingredients, gently fold them, and then bake to golden perfection. The result is a wonderfully aromatic and tender cake that feels special but requires minimal effort.
Essential Spice Cake Ingredients for Perfect Flavor and Moisture
While the list of ingredients for this homemade spice cake might appear extensive at first glance, don’t let that deter you! This cake remains incredibly simple to assemble. In fact, you’ll likely discover that most of the items you need are already staples in your pantry. Let’s take a closer look at a few key ingredients and understand why each plays such a vital role in creating this remarkably moist, flavorful, and unforgettable dessert.
- Aromatic Spices: The heart and soul of any good spice cake lies in its generous and well-balanced spice blend. This recipe shines with a dynamic mixture of four classic ground spices:
- Ground Cinnamon: This warm, sweet, and woody spice forms the foundational flavor, providing a comforting aroma that is synonymous with fall and holiday baking.
- Ground Ginger: Adding a lovely zing and a hint of peppery warmth, ginger brightens the overall flavor profile and prevents the cake from being overly sweet.
- Ground Nutmeg: With its slightly sweet, nutty, and subtly earthy notes, nutmeg contributes depth and a classic “bakery” aroma that complements the other spices beautifully.
- Ground Cloves: A powerful and intensely aromatic spice, cloves bring a rich, pungent, and warm undertone, enhancing the complexity and making the cake truly stand out.
- **Optional Spices:** For those who love to experiment, a pinch of allspice or cardamom can add even more intriguing layers of flavor.
- Sugar Selection: My recipe development involved testing various sugar combinations. Ultimately, a cake made solely with brown sugar emerged as the clear winner in terms of flavor. Brown sugar, particularly light brown sugar, contributes a wonderful molasses note and extra moisture that white granulated sugar simply can’t match. While light brown sugar is recommended for its balanced sweetness, dark brown sugar can also be used for a deeper, richer molasses flavor. Always remember to pack your brown sugar firmly when measuring!
- Oil for Supreme Moisture: For this particular spice cake, using a neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil is highly recommended. Oil is superior to butter in some cakes because it remains liquid at room temperature, contributing to a consistently moist and tender crumb that stays soft for longer. If you opt for melted coconut oil, ensure all your other wet ingredients (eggs, buttermilk, applesauce) are at room temperature to prevent the coconut oil from solidifying upon contact, which can create undesirable lumps in your batter.
- Applesauce for Reduced Greasiness & Enhanced Moisture: To achieve the perfect balance of moisture without any hint of greasiness, this recipe incorporates unsweetened applesauce alongside the oil. Relying solely on oil can sometimes lead to a cake that feels heavy or overly oily. By substituting a portion of the oil with applesauce, the cake maintains its delightful moistness while remaining light and tender. Unsweetened applesauce is preferred to control the overall sweetness of the cake.
- Buttermilk for a Tender Crumb: Buttermilk is a secret weapon in many baking recipes, and this spice cake is no exception. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda and baking powder, leading to an incredibly soft, tender crumb and helping to keep the cake wonderfully moist. Both low-fat and full-fat buttermilk work beautifully in this recipe. If you find yourself without buttermilk on hand, don’t fret! You can easily make your own homemade buttermilk substitute using milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundational dry ingredient, measured correctly (spooned and leveled) to avoid a dense cake.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work in tandem to create a light and airy texture. The baking soda reacts with the buttermilk for an extra lift.
- Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and help bind the ingredients together. Ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification with other wet ingredients.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors, adding a layer of sophisticated sweetness to the spice blend.
How To Bake the Perfect Homemade Spice Cake
Baking this delightful spice cake is a straightforward and enjoyable process that even beginner bakers will find simple. Follow these steps to achieve a perfectly moist, fragrant, and delicious dessert every time. Remember, the key to great baking often lies in careful preparation and attention to detail!
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Your Baking Pan: Just like many of my other beloved cake recipes, this homemade spice cake bakes beautifully at 350°F (177°C). For convenience and easy serving, I typically use a standard 9×13-inch baking pan. Ensure your pan is thoroughly greased and floured, or lined with parchment paper, to prevent sticking. If you’re aiming for a more elegant presentation with a layered cake, refer to my FAQ section for adjusted pan sizes and baking times.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour (remember to spoon and level it!), baking soda, baking powder, the wonderful blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together until they are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed. This step is crucial for ensuring uniform leavening and spice flavor throughout your cake.
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients Together: In a separate, generously sized mixing bowl, combine the wet ingredients. This includes the flavorful brown sugar, neutral oil, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, pure vanilla extract, and that essential buttermilk. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely homogeneous and smooth. For best results, make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature, as this helps them emulsify better with the oil and sugar, leading to a more consistent batter.
- Gently Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Carefully add the whisked dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Using a spatula or a whisk, mix them together only until they are just combined and no streaks of dry flour remain. It’s incredibly important not to overmix the batter at this stage. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in a dense, tough cake rather than the light and tender crumb we’re aiming for.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Pour the beautifully combined batter into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Transfer the pan to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so I highly recommend testing for doneness. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your cake is ready!
- Cool & Frost the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is non-negotiable! Attempting to frost a warm cake will only lead to a melted, runny frosting mess. Allow ample time for the cake to reach room temperature before you even think about applying that delicious cream cheese frosting.
The Perfect Companion: Cream Cheese Frosting
For the frosting of this magnificent homemade spice cake, I opted for my beloved homemade cream cheese frosting. Its delightful tanginess and creamy texture create the perfect counterpoint to the warm, rich spices of the cake, truly elevating every bite. I kept the frosting simple and classic for this recipe, allowing the cake’s flavors to shine. However, for those who crave an extra layer of spice, a small addition of ground cinnamon to the frosting can create an even more intensely aromatic experience.
One crucial note for preparing the frosting: The quality and type of cream cheese you use are paramount to achieving that perfectly thick and pipeable consistency. Always make sure to use a full-fat, brick or block-style cream cheese, and ensure it’s properly softened to room temperature. Avoid using cream cheese spread that comes in a tub, as these varieties have a higher water content and will result in a runny, unstable frosting that simply won’t hold its shape or complement your beautiful cake. Starting with softened, brick-style cream cheese will ensure your frosting is wonderfully smooth, rich, and holds its form beautifully.
If you’re in the mood to explore other frosting options, my classic vanilla buttercream would also make a fantastic pairing with this spice cake. Its buttery sweetness provides a different but equally delicious complement to the cake’s robust flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Spice Cake
Here are answers to some common questions that arise when baking this delicious homemade spice cake. Understanding these tips will help you achieve perfect results every time!
Can I transform this into a beautiful layered cake?
Absolutely! This versatile recipe works wonderfully as a layered cake. For a standard two-layer cake, I highly recommend dividing the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans. Adjust your baking time to approximately 28 to 32 minutes, keeping an eye on them for doneness as oven temperatures can vary. The cream cheese frosting recipe provided will yield enough for a light, elegant layer of frosting between the cakes and on top. If you prefer a more generous amount of frosting, or a thicker layer between your cake layers, consider increasing the frosting recipe by 1.5 times to ensure you have plenty to work with.
What’s the best method for storing this cake to maintain its freshness?
Because this luscious spice cake is topped with cream cheese frosting, it requires proper refrigeration to keep it fresh and safe. After the cake has completely cooled and been frosted, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allowing the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance its flavors and soften the frosting to its ideal texture.
Is it possible to freeze this spice cake for later enjoyment?
Yes, this homemade spice cake freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying a delicious treat whenever a craving strikes! Once the cake has finished baking and has cooled completely to room temperature, wrap it very tightly with several layers of plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store the unfrosted cake in the freezer for up to 3 months. The cream cheese frosting can also be frozen separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, thaw both the cake and the frosting to room temperature before assembling and serving. This will ensure the best texture and flavor.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits to this spice cake?
Certainly! Toasted chopped pecans or walnuts would be a fantastic addition, adding a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully. You could also stir in up to a half cup of golden raisins or chopped dried cranberries for an extra layer of sweetness and chewiness. If adding nuts or fruits, simply fold them into the batter during the final mixing step, just before pouring into the baking pan.
What can I do if my cake turns out dry?
A dry cake is often the result of overbaking or incorrect flour measurement. To prevent overbaking, start checking your cake around the 30-minute mark and only bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. For flour measurement, always use the spoon and level method: spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to using too much.
Pro Baking Tips for the Best Spice Cake
Achieving a consistently perfect homemade spice cake is easy with a few expert tips. These suggestions will help ensure your cake is always moist, tender, and packed with flavor.
- Measure Flour Accurately: The “spoon and level” method is paramount when measuring your all-purpose flour. Instead of scooping flour directly with your measuring cup, gently spoon the flour into the cup until it overflows, then level it off with the back of a knife or a straight edge. Too much flour can significantly alter the cake’s texture, leading to a dense, dry, and heavy result instead of the desired light and fluffy crumb.
- Avoid Overmixing the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix them only until they are just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough and chewy cake rather than a tender one. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and will bake out.
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For the best results, ensure all your cold ingredients, such as eggs, buttermilk, and butter (for the frosting), are at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify properly, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a finer crumb in your cake. It also helps the cream cheese frosting whip up light and airy.
- Applesauce Substitutions: If you don’t have unsweetened applesauce readily available, you can substitute it with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. Keep in mind that while these substitutes will still contribute moisture, they may slightly alter the texture of the cake, potentially making it a little less soft than with applesauce.
- Don’t Peek Too Early: Resist the urge to open the oven door during the first two-thirds of the baking time. Fluctuations in temperature can cause the cake to sink in the middle. Once the timer is close to the minimum baking time, then it’s safe to check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to frosting. Ensure your cake is completely cooled to room temperature before applying any frosting. Attempting to frost a warm cake will only result in melted, sliding frosting and a messy presentation.
More Delicious Cake Recipes to Explore!
If you’ve enjoyed baking this wonderful spice cake, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic cake recipes from my collection. Each one is designed to be easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!
- The Best Red Velvet Cake
- Irresistible Banana Cake
- Decadent Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
- The Best Classic Coffee Cake
- Rich Chocolate Layer Cake
Spice Cake Recipe
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Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 and ½ cups (315 grams) all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 and ¾ cups (350 grams) light brown sugar packed
- ¾ cup (180 ml) canola or vegetable oil
- ½ cup (125 g) unsweetened applesauce
- 4 large eggs
- 1 and ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8-ounce) package brick-style cream cheese softened
- ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
To Make the Spice Cake:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray, or grease and flour it well. Set the prepared pan aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves until all the dry ingredients are fully combined and evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside.
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In a separate, large mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, canola or vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, large eggs, pure vanilla extract, and buttermilk until the mixture is smooth and all wet ingredients are thoroughly combined.
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Add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients mixture. Mix them together gently, either with a whisk or a spatula, until they are just combined and no dry pockets of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
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Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the top of the cake appears set and a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and carefully transfer the pan to a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding with frosting.
To Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle or whisk attachment (or using a large mixing bowl and a handheld mixer), beat the softened brick-style cream cheese until it is smooth and free of lumps. Add the softened unsalted butter and continue to mix for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until well combined and perfectly smooth.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) and the pure vanilla extract. Continue mixing on low speed until the sugar is incorporated, then increase the speed and beat until the frosting is fully combined, light, and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well mixed.
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Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or knife. Slice and serve!
Notes
Freezing Instructions: This cake freezes exceptionally well! Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly with several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. The cream cheese frosting can also be frozen separately in an airtight container for the same duration. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw both the cake and frosting to room temperature before assembling and serving for the best texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar: For a richer flavor and moist crumb, this recipe calls for light brown sugar, packed firmly. However, dark brown sugar can be used as a substitute for an even deeper molasses note.
Oil: A neutral-flavored oil such as canola or vegetable oil is recommended to keep the cake incredibly moist without overpowering the spices. If using melted coconut oil, ensure all other ingredients are at room temperature to prevent it from solidifying in the batter.
Buttermilk: Both low-fat and full-fat buttermilk will work perfectly in this cake, contributing to its tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, feel free to prepare my easy buttermilk substitute.
Cream Cheese for Frosting: For a stable and luscious cream cheese frosting, always use full-fat, brick or block-style cream cheese. Avoid tub cream cheese spreads, as their thinner consistency will result in a runny frosting. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature before mixing.
For a Layered Cake: To create a beautiful two-layer cake, divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Reduce the baking time to approximately 28 to 32 minutes. The provided frosting recipe yields a light layer; if you prefer more frosting between layers and on top, increase the frosting ingredients by 1.5 times.