PERFECT CHRISTMAS SPICE CAKE

I’ll never forget the year my brother tried to “help” decorate our Christmas Spice Cake with an entire container of red sprinkles – let’s just say it looked less like a festive dessert and more like a crime scene! Even amidst the sprinkle-induced chaos, the aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg filling the kitchen was pure holiday magic. If you follow my simple steps, you’ll end up with a beautifully spiced and incredibly moist cake that will become a cherished centerpiece of your Christmas celebrations, and hopefully without the sprinkle incident!

The Ultimate Christmas Spice Cake: A Recipe from My Heart to Your Kitchen

Hey there, baking besties! I’m so excited to share my go-to Christmas Spice Cake recipe with you. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a hug in dessert form, a symphony of warm spices that instantly transports you to cozy evenings by the fire, surrounded by loved ones. I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, tweaking and testing until it’s become a foolproof, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. So, grab your apron, crank up the Christmas tunes, and let’s get baking!

Why This Christmas Spice Cake Will Be Your New Holiday Tradition

Okay, let’s be honest, there are a million spice cake recipes out there. But trust me, this one is special. Here’s why:

• Unbelievably Moist: We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth, never-dry-again moistness. The secret? A combination of oil and applesauce keeps this cake incredibly tender.
• Perfectly Spiced: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger creates a warm, inviting flavor that screams “Christmas.”
• Easy to Make: Don’t let the “spice cake” title intimidate you. This recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward, even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, dust it with powdered sugar, or top it with a luscious cream cheese frosting – the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for holiday entertaining when you’re short on time.

Gather Your Ingredients: The Spice Rack Stars

Before we dive in, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients you need. Here’s a complete list:

For the Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (360g) – The foundation of our cake.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon – For that perfect rise and airy texture.
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon – Works with the baking soda for extra lift.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon – Enhances the flavors of the spices.
• Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons – The quintessential Christmas spice.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon – Adds warmth and depth.
• Ground Cloves: ½ teaspoon – A little goes a long way, adding a touch of spice.
• Ground Ginger: ½ teaspoon – A hint of warmth and zest.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups (400g) – For sweetness and moisture.
• Vegetable Oil: ¾ cup (180ml) – Keeps the cake incredibly moist.
• Applesauce: 1 cup (240ml), unsweetened – Adds moisture and a subtle apple flavor.
• Eggs: 3 large – Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavors.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml) – Adds tanginess and helps create a tender crumb.
• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (optional): 1 cup – For added texture and nutty flavor.
• Raisins (optional): 1 cup – Adds a touch of sweetness and chewiness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional, but Highly Recommended!):

• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (225g), softened – The star of the frosting, providing a tangy and creamy base.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113g), softened – Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: 3 cups (360g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavors of the frosting.
• Milk or Cream: 1-2 tablespoons – To adjust the consistency of the frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Bake!

Alright, let’s get down to business! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and delicious Christmas Spice Cake.

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use a bundt pan if you prefer.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even distribution of the spices.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
5. Add Nuts and Raisins (Optional): If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins.
6. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Frost (Optional): While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Christmas Spice Cake

Okay, now for the insider secrets! Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to ensure your Christmas Spice Cake is a smashing success.

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients helps them blend together more easily and creates a smoother batter.
• Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are key! Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in a dry cake. Check for doneness using a wooden skewer. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• Let it Cool Completely: Before frosting, make sure the cake is completely cool. Otherwise, the frosting will melt and slide right off.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra ½ teaspoon.
• Add a Glaze: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Soak the Raisins: For extra plump and juicy raisins, soak them in warm water or rum for 30 minutes before adding them to the batter.

Variations: Make It Your Own!

The beauty of this Christmas Spice Cake recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Dried Cranberries: Replace the raisins with dried cranberries for a festive twist.
• Add Orange Zest: Add the zest of one orange to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk alternative for the buttermilk.

Serving Suggestions: The Perfect Presentation

Now that you’ve baked your masterpiece, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few ideas for presentation:

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a simple and elegant look, dust the cake with powdered sugar.
• Top with Fresh Berries: Arrange fresh berries, such as raspberries or cranberries, on top of the frosting for a pop of color.
• Garnish with Candied Ginger: Add a touch of spice and sweetness with candied ginger.
• Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream is the perfect complement to this warm and spicy cake.
• Pair with a Festive Drink: A slice of Christmas Spice Cake pairs perfectly with a Christmas Margarita or a mug of Hot Chocolate.

Storing Instructions: Keeping Your Cake Fresh

If you have any leftovers (which is highly unlikely!), here’s how to store them to keep your Christmas Spice Cake fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

More Festive Recipes to Try

Looking for more delicious recipes to complete your holiday spread? Here are a few of my favorites:

• Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria: A festive and flavorful drink that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars: A decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
• Apple Crisp Recipe: A classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
• Samoa Cheesecake Recipe: An indulgent cheesecake inspired by the famous Girl Scout cookie.

Troubleshooting: Common Baking Blunders and How to Avoid Them

Even the most experienced bakers encounter occasional mishaps. Here are some common baking blunders and how to avoid them:

• Cake is Dry: This is usually caused by overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness using a wooden skewer and don’t overbake. Also, ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately, especially the flour.
• Cake is Dense: This can be caused by overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Mix until just combined and use room temperature ingredients.
• Cake is Sinking in the Middle: This can be caused by opening the oven door too frequently while baking or by using an oven that’s not properly calibrated. Avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily and use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is heating to the correct temperature.
• Frosting is Too Thin: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Frosting is Too Thick: Add more milk or cream, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

I hope you enjoy baking this Christmas Spice Cake as much as I do! It’s a truly special recipe that’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your family. Happy baking!

Lady Maria

Perfect Christmas Spice Cake

This Christmas Spice Cake recipe delivers a moist and flavorful cake, perfect for holiday celebrations. With a blend of warm spices and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¾ cup 180ml
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
• 1 cup raisins optional
• ½ cup 113g
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
• 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream for frosting

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan or Bundt pan
• Large bowl
• medium bowl
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden skewer or toothpick
• wire rack
• Mixer (for frosting)

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or a Bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. If using, gently fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and raisins.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
10. Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting.

Notes

For extra plump and juicy raisins, soak them in warm water or rum for 30 minutes before adding them to the batter. Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. You can also add dried cranberries, orange zest, or chocolate chips to the batter. If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.