There's something magical about the warm aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family gatherings where laughter and love filled the air. One recipe that never fails to bring joy is my Super Moist Spice Cake. This delightful treat not only offers a comforting blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, but it also comes together in just about an hour—perfect for those busy days when you crave something homemade without all the fuss. The luscious cream cheese frosting that crowns this cake is an irresistible perk, making it a showstopper at any occasion. So, are you ready to fill your home with the enchanting scent of spices and create a moment that will be cherished by all?
Why is this spice cake so special?
Simplicity: This Super Moist Spice Cake is a breeze to make, requiring only basic baking skills and minimal prep time—perfect for those busy afternoons.
Warm, Cozy Flavors: The spices create a warm, inviting aroma, turning your kitchen into a sweet haven that beckons family and friends to gather around.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as-is or dress it up; it makes a stunning dessert for celebrations or a comforting treat for everyday enjoyment.
Irresistible Frosting: Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, each bite is a delightful balance of fluffy cake and rich sweetness that will have you craving more!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This cake is sure to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults—it’s a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style.
Spice Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a delightful treat!
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – A staple ingredient that gives the cake its structure and soft texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking Soda – Works with the acidity of other ingredients to promote leavening.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice that brings warmth and depth to your spice cake.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds a touch of nutty richness, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.
• Ground Ginger – Offers a zingy warmth that perfectly rounds out the spice profile.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping it brown nicely.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth, making for an irresistibly moist cake.
• Large Eggs – Bind the ingredients together, contributing to a tender crumb.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
• Milk – Adds moisture and balances out the dry ingredients.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses a subtle sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The rich base of your frosting that adds a creamy tang.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting while ensuring a smooth texture.
• Butter – Adds creaminess and helps create that perfect spreadable consistency.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Super Moist Spice Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take the time to grease your two 9-inch round cake pans. A light coating of oil or butter will help ensure that your Super Moist Spice Cake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will create a smooth base for your cake. The enticing aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, promising deliciousness ahead.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed to mix until the ingredients are smooth and well combined. This step is where the magic begins, as the sugars blend with the eggs and oils to create a silky mixture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; stop when just combined to keep your Super Moist Spice Cake light and fluffy. A few floury pockets are perfectly fine, as they will incorporate during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula if needed. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as a golden-brown top signals they are nearly ready.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling step allows the cakes to firm up, making them easier to handle. After 10 minutes, gently turn them out of the pans onto the racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare your delicious cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting reaches the perfect spreadable consistency. This creamy delight will elevate your Spice Cake to new heights.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once your cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Generously spread cream cheese frosting over the top, and then carefully add the second layer. Finish by frosting the top and sides of your Super Moist Spice Cake, creating a beautiful layer of rich, creamy goodness to savor in every bite.
Expert Tips for Spice Cake
Prep Ahead: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend smoothly, resulting in a fluffier spice cake.
Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir just until incorporated to avoid a dense cake. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Baking Time: Ovens can vary. Start checking your cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking; a toothpick should come out clean, not dry.
Cooling Time: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Cream Cheese Consistency: Soften your cream cheese completely for the frosting to achieve a creamy, smooth texture. If too cold, it may result in lumps.
How to Store and Freeze Spice Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftover spice cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Cover with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted spice cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving. Optionally, reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm dessert experience.
What to Serve with Super Moist Spice Cake?
There's nothing quite like the comforting blend of flavors to create a full meal experience, inviting everyone to gather around your table.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of buttery mashed potatoes complements the cake's spices, providing a savory contrast that balances sweetness.
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Classic Roast Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully, with its savory notes enhancing the warm flavors of the spice cake.
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Apple Crisp: This warm dessert, with its crunchy topping and tart apples, echoes the spices in the cake while adding a delightful texture.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warm, spiced drink that echoes the flavor profile of the cake, offering a cozy and aromatic pairing for warm conversations.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over a slice of spice cake takes it to the next level, adding a luscious, sweet complement to the spices.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a light contrast, cleansing the palate after each rich bite of cake.
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Pumpkin Soup: The earthy flavors of pumpkin soup serve as a warm start, highlighting the spice elements leading beautifully into your dessert.
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Ginger Ale: A bubbly ginger ale provides a refreshing bite that brightens up the flavors, making for a delightful beverage choice.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can enhance the creamy frosting while adding an airy touch to each slice.
Make Ahead Options
This Super Moist Spice Cake is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors with minimal last-minute fuss. You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For the cream cheese frosting, it can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve, take the cakes out of the fridge and frost them just before enjoying, allowing them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain their moisture and flavor. With these make-ahead options, your Spice Cake remains just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy days!
Spice Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your own twist to this delightful spice cake, letting your creativity shine through every delicious bite!
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for dairy milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting.
- Reduced Sugar: Cut down the granulated sugar by ¼ cup or replace it with coconut sugar for a healthier option that still tastes sweet.
- Add Fruits: Toss in a cup of diced apples or pears into the batter for a moist, fruity surprise that elevates flavor and texture.
- Nuts & Seeds: Fold in a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness—perfect for nut lovers!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the batter for a surprising warm heat that complements the spices beautifully.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of cocoa powder to create a chocolatey version of this cake—because chocolate makes everything better!
- Frosting Variations: Instead of cream cheese, try a chocolate ganache or a whipped buttercream for a different flavor profile and festive touch.
Super Moist Spice Cake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting spices?
Absolutely! Freshness is key when selecting your spices. Look for vibrant colors and avoid any that have dark spots or a musty smell. Ground spices lose potency over time, so if you haven't used them in a while, consider refreshing your pantry. For this spice cake, the warmth of freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg makes a delightful difference in flavor!
How should I store leftover spice cake?
You can keep your leftover spice cake at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container. This helps retain its moisture and flavor. If you prefer a longer shelf life, it's best to refrigerate it, where it'll keep fresh for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out!
Can I freeze my spice cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze the unfrosted spice cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before frosting or serving for the best flavor and texture.
What if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your cake sinks in the middle, it might be due to underbaking or too much moisture in the batter. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and follow the baking time. Slice the top off gently and serve it upside down as a rustic version, or turn it into a trifle with fruits and whipped cream!
Is this spice cake safe for my pets?
While the spices in this cake—like cinnamon—are safe in tiny amounts, it’s not recommended to share it with pets. Ingredients like sugar and cream cheese aren’t suitable for them. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new human foods to your pet's diet.
How do I make my cream cheese frosting smoother?
To achieve a creamy and smooth cream cheese frosting, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. Start by beating the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. If you encounter lumps, simply continue mixing and beat out the lumps until you reach the desired consistency. This technique will ensure your frosting is wonderfully spreadable!
Irresistibly Moist Spice Cake That's Truly Comfort Food
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
- cake pans
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup Brown Sugar
- 3 large Eggs
- ½ cup Vegetable Oil
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar
- ½ cup Butter
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Super Moist Spice Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger.
- In another bowl, blend together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for approximately 50 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before turning them out.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar.
- Frost the cooled cake layers with cream cheese frosting and enjoy!
