As I sifted through the spice drawer, a nostalgic aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cherished holiday gatherings. This Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream captures every essence of the season, infusing warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg into a moist cake that will bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces. Not only is this recipe a cinch to prepare, but it also offers adaptable options for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can indulge in this festive treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just seeking a comforting dessert, this cake transforms any occasion into a cozy celebration. Curious about how to make this delightful centerpiece for your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this cake a holiday favorite?
Festive Flavors: This cake combines classic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg that evoke the holiday spirit in every bite.
Creamy Indulgence: Topped with a rich eggnog buttercream, it’s the perfect complement, adding a luxurious texture and flavor.
Customizable Delight: Whether you need dairy-free or gluten-free options, this recipe can easily adapt to fit various dietary needs without compromising taste.
Quick and Easy: Its simple steps mean you can bake this beauty without hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy holiday seasons.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and you’ll see smiles all around—this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper that delights families and guests alike!
If you’re loving festive flavors, you might also enjoy Apple Pie Bars or get cozy with a Homemade Pumpkin Spice drink alongside your dessert!
Christmas Spice Cake Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of warmth and flavor!
For the Cake
- Cake Flour – Provides a light and tender crumb; can be substituted with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; no substitutions needed for sweetness.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise; ensure it is fresh for best results.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; standard table salt works well.
- Nutmeg and Cinnamon – Add warmth and holiday flavors; use freshly grated for the best taste.
- Eggnog – Infuses richness and flavor; can be replaced with a milk and cream mixture.
- Milk – Provides moisture; use dairy or non-dairy alternatives as desired.
- Oil – Keeps the cake moist; can be substituted with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Adds depth of flavor; extract can be used as a substitute.
- Rum Extract – Contributes to the holiday spirit in flavor; optional and can be omitted.
- Eggs – Adds structure and richness; omit or replace with flax eggs for vegan versions.
For the Frosting
- Butter – Creates a smooth texture and adds flavor to the buttercream; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the quantity for desired consistency.
- Milk – Helps achieve frosting consistency; add more if the frosting is too thick.
With these ingredients, you are all set to create a delightful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream that will surely become a tradition in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven warms up, grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure your Christmas Spice Cake comes out easily later. A thorough greasing will help prevent any sticking, giving you smooth, beautiful layers to frost.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cake flour, 1 ½ cups of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt, along with 1 teaspoon each of nutmeg and cinnamon. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring no clumps remain. This step sets the foundation for the delicious flavor profile of your Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of eggnog, ½ cup of milk, ½ cup of oil, 1 tablespoon of vanilla bean paste, and 2 large eggs. Mix these wet ingredients until well combined, creating a smooth mixture that brings richness and flavor to your cake batter. The eggnog plays a crucial role in the festive essence of this recipe.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the wet mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients. Start mixing on low speed to combine, then increase to medium speed until the batter reaches a slightly thick and smooth consistency. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. This gentle mixing helps create a tender crumb for the Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step is essential for the cakes to set properly before frosting; a warm cake can lead to melted frosting.
Step 7: Make the Eggnog Buttercream
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by beating 1 cup of softened butter in a large bowl until fluffy. Gradually add 4 cups of confectioner’s sugar, alternating with a splash of milk, until you reach a creamy consistency. This eggnog buttercream will beautifully complement your Christmas Spice Cake, so make sure it’s smooth and spreadable.
Step 8: Frost the Cooled Cakes
Once your cake layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Generously spread a layer of eggnog buttercream on top, then carefully place the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake, creating a delightful and festive finish. Enjoy your beautiful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream at your holiday gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain its moistness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cake in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week. Ensure it’s covered well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: If you need to store your Christmas Spice Cake for an even longer period, it can be frozen! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil—frozen cake can keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake after freezing, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For a warm slice, microwave gently for about 15-20 seconds before serving.
What to Serve with Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Bring the festive spirit to your table with delightful accompaniments that enhance your holiday dessert experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes offer a rich and smooth contrast to the spiced cake, creating a comforting balance.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, aromatic flavors of spiced apple cider create a perfect beverage pairing that complements the cake’s warm spices beautifully.
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Gingerbread Cookies: With a chewy texture and similar spice notes, gingerbread cookies create a cohesive holiday treat display that everyone will love.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and savory flavor bring a delightful crunch and balance to the sweetness of the cake.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds color and a zesty contrast, lifting the palate after each bite of rich cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cake, enhancing the flavors with a cool contrast.
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Mulled Wine: The spiced notes of mulled wine tie in perfectly with the cake’s flavors, offering a warm and festive drink option.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling rich chocolate ganache adds decadence to your dessert table, playing off the holiday spices for a double treat.
Every bite becomes a memorable experience with these delicious pairings, turning any gathering into a festive celebration!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The eggnog buttercream can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. To maintain the quality, ensure all components are well-wrapped or stored properly. When you’re ready to serve, just take the cake layers out, frost with the buttercream, and enjoy a deliciously festive dessert with minimal effort!
Christmas Spice Cake with Delicious Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; your kitchen is your canvas!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute eggnog with homemade nut milk and replace butter with coconut oil for a creamy frosting free of dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Use King Arthur gluten-free flour for a friendly gluten-free version; it may slightly alter the cake’s texture.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of ground allspice or cloves for a spicier cake that brings an additional layer of warmth.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a plant-based take on this festive delight.
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate finely chopped dried fruits or candied ginger into the batter for bursts of flavor and a chewy texture.
- Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy surprise that perfectly complements the softness of the cake.
- Decadent Layering: For a rich experience, add a layer of spiced cream cheese frosting between the cake layers before topping with the eggnog buttercream.
- Holiday Heat: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or generously dust with cinnamon on top of the frosting for an unexpected spicy kick, sure to delight the adventurous eater!
For more sweet inspirations, try pairing this delightful cake with a cozy Homemade Pumpkin Spice drink or indulge in the festive flavors of Peach Bruschetta Whipped as a fun appetizer. Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Christmas Spice Cake
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Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh baking powder to ensure your Christmas spice cake rises perfectly. Stale ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
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Mixing Method: Mix the batter on low speed after adding liquids to avoid overworking, which can result in a tough cake crumb.
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Cooling Time: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake will melt the eggnog buttercream, making a mess.
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Frosting Consistency: If your buttercream is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches your desired spreadable texture.
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Flavor Intensity: Consider adding a pinch of ground allspice or cloves for an extra depth of flavor in your Christmas spice cake, enhancing the festive taste experience.
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Storage Insight: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness; refrigerate for longer storage.
Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for the cake?
For the best texture, I recommend using cake flour, as it provides a light and tender crumb. If you don’t have any on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This combination keeps your cake airy and soft!
How long can I store the cake?
You can store your Christmas Spice Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it, which will maintain its quality for about a week. Just ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze the Christmas Spice Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and microwave it for 15-20 seconds to warm it up a bit, enhancing the flavor and nostalgia.
What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise?
If your cake comes out dense or doesn’t rise, it could be due to stale baking powder. Always check that your baking powder is fresh before using it. Another common culprit is overmixing the batter once the wet ingredients are added; this can create a tough texture. Remember, a few lumps are okay, and gentle mixing is key!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can accommodate various dietary restrictions! To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter in the frosting with coconut oil and use non-dairy milk and eggnog. For gluten-free options, I recommend using a gluten-free flour blend, such as King Arthur Gluten-Free Flour, though the texture may vary slightly. Always check labels for allergens depending on the substitutions you make.
How does the frosting consistency affect my cake?
A well-made eggnog buttercream should be smooth and spreadable. If it feels too thick, just add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the perfect consistency for easy spreading. Conversely, if it’s too thin, sprinkle in more confectioner’s sugar until you achieve that creamy delight that beautifully complements your Christmas Spice Cake!
Delicious Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Whisk to blend evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk, oil, vanilla, and eggs until well combined.
- Gradually mix the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed, then increase to medium until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 50-55 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add confectioner's sugar and milk until creamy.
- Once cakes are cooled, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the sides and top.
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