Description
Savor the flavors of the season with this Holiday Spice Cake that forgoes the typical nutmeg! This delightful cake will fill your kitchen with warmth and spice, making it the perfect treat for any festive gathering. The combination of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves creates a rich flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting. Your friends and family will surely enjoy this inviting dessert that captures the essence of the holidays!
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Make the Frosting
To prepare the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Step 11: Serve
Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy every moist and spiced bite!
Notes
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Substitutions
You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and butter substitute for a lactose-free version.
Customization
Feel free to add raisins or dried cranberries to the batter for added texture and flavor. Adjust spices according to your preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes