The kitchen filled with the warm scents of cinnamon and nutmeg transports me back to holiday gatherings past, where family and friends would come together over sweet treats. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is a delightful nod to those cherished moments. Perfectly moist and spiced, this cake embodies the spirit of the season, making it a cozy centerpiece for your festive table. One of the best perks? It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the celebrations. That creamy eggnog buttercream takes it to another level, wrapping each slice in rich, festive flavor. Are you ready to create a new holiday tradition that warms hearts and delights the palate?
Why is This Cake So Special?
Aromatic Spices: The warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves fills your kitchen with holiday cheer. Memorable Tradition: This cake is perfect for family gatherings, creating lasting memories with every slice. Make-Ahead Magic: Prep this cake in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Creamy Frosting: The rich Eggnog Buttercream enhances the moist cake, making it irresistibly delicious. For more holiday treats, don’t miss our delightful Christmas Tree Cupcake or Joy Christmas Fudge.
Christmas Spice Cake Ingredients
• To bring the festive flavors to life, here’s what you need for the perfect Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture to the cake; consider using cake flour for an even lighter bite.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps retain moisture; swapping for brown sugar can add a lovely caramel flavor.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to give your cake that delightful rise; check it’s fresh for best results.
- Baking soda – Helps with leavening, especially effective when paired with acidic ingredients like buttermilk.
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves) – These warm spices give the cake its signature holiday flavor; feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending into the batter.
- Eggs – Essential for moisture and structure; using room temperature eggs helps them mix better.
- Milk (whole or buttermilk) – Contributes to moisture; buttermilk can add a delightful tang along with tenderness.
For the Frosting
- Eggnog – This key ingredient provides a creamy texture and festive flavor for the buttercream; you can substitute with heavy cream if needed.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the amount for your desired thickness.
Now that you’re well-equipped with the ingredients, get ready to spread the festive cheer with this delicious Christmas Spice Cake!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cake pans. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with unsalted butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you have parchment paper, lining the bottoms can provide extra assurance for easy release.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and your chosen spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—along with ½ teaspoon of salt. This step blends the flavors and leavening agents, ensuring your Christmas Spice Cake is both delicious and well-risen.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Add in 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This creates a rich base for your cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once your butter mixture is fluffy, gradually mix in 1 cup of whole milk (or buttermilk) and ½ cup of eggnog. Continue mixing on a lower speed until everything is well combined. The addition of eggnog contributes that festive flavor, enhancing the moistness of your Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The batter should be thick and aromatic, filled with the warm spices that define this Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops using a rubber spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes will be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After this, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This is essential, as frosting them when warm can lead to a melty disaster rather than the desired festive layering.
Step 8: Prepare the Eggnog Buttercream
While the cakes are cooling, whip 1 cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar and ¼ cup of eggnog, mixing on low speed until combined. Increase the speed and beat until the buttercream is light and fluffy, adjusting the sugar for your desired thickness.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of Eggnog Buttercream on top before placing the second layer over it. Apply a crumb coat, then chill briefly if needed before applying additional frosting to the top and sides of the cake for a festive finish.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is now ready to be served! Slice into the beautifully layered cake and watch as the rich frosting mingles with the spiced cake. Pair it with a warm beverage or simply enjoy it with loved ones to create wonderful holiday memories.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream are perfect for busy holiday preparations! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Once cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate; this will keep them moist and fresh. The Eggnog Buttercream can also be made up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, allow the frosting to come to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading it on your chilled cake layers. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Christmas Spice Cake
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and spices to ensure your Christmas Spice Cake rises well and has vibrant flavors that truly shine through.
- Room Temperature: Allow your eggs and butter to reach room temperature before mixing. This step helps create a smoother batter and ensures better blending.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the light, fluffy texture you desire.
- Cooling Time: Be patient! Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful finish.
- Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to personalize your Christmas Spice Cake by experimenting with different spices or adding nuts for an extra crunch.
Christmas Spice Cake Variations
Feel free to embrace your creativity with these variations, adding your unique twist to this delightful holiday cake!
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter and use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a plant-based option that still tastes fantastic.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spiced Rum: Add a splash of spiced rum to your Eggnog Buttercream for a sophisticated, adult twist that enhances the festive flavors.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate ground walnuts or pecans into the cake batter for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements the spices.
- Chocolate Kick: Fold in some cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey layer, creating a delicious harmony of flavors alongside the spices.
For those looking for something extra festive, why not layer this cake with Christmas Truffles Melt for an unforgettable holiday treat?
- Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar in both the cake and frosting by about a third for a more balanced sweetness, allowing the spices to shine through beautifully.
- Fruit Fest: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped apples into the cake batter for bursts of fruity goodness that elevate the flavors even further.
What to Serve with Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Elevate your holiday dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance the festive flavors of this spiced cake.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate beautifully complements the warm spices in the cake, making for a cozy pairing.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of this aromatic beverage adds a perfect autumnal twist, echoing the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess is a delightful contrast to the warm cake, making each bite a perfect balance of temperature and texture.
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Candied Pecans: Their crunch and sweet caramel notes provide a sophisticated texture, enhancing the overall holiday feel of the dessert.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A bright medley of citrus fruits offers a refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the Eggnog Buttercream wonderfully.
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Peppermint Tea: Embrace the holiday spirit with a cup of this soothing tea, perfectly warming and aromatic, which pairs well with every slice of cake.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced crunch keeps the holiday vibes strong and makes for a delightful contrast with the moist cake.
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Creamy Eggnog: A classic pairing! Serve a glass of eggnog on the side for an indulgent drink that mirrors the cake’s frosting flavor.
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Nutty Dessert Wine: A glass of dessert wine can enhance the complexity of the cake’s spices, adding a layer of enjoyment to your festive table.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake
- Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to enjoy its fresh flavor. Use a cake dome or wrap in plastic to maintain moisture.
- Fridge: If you need to store the cake longer, place it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out and absorbing odors from other foods.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the Christmas Spice Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for protection against freezer burn.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them in the fridge overnight and let them come to room temperature. A quick warm-up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can revive the cake’s softness if desired.
Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe spices for this cake?
When selecting spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, opt for those in whole form if possible, and grind them yourself for maximum freshness and flavor. If using ground spices, check the expiration date on the container—spices lose potency over time, so fresher is better for a robust taste in your Christmas Spice Cake.
What is the best way to store my Christmas Spice Cake?
Store your cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, using a cake dome or wrapping it in plastic wrap. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out and absorbing unwanted odors from your fridge.
Can I freeze my Christmas Spice Cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, freeze unfrosted cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Frozen cakes can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and let them come to room temperature before frosting or serving.
What if my cake domes in the oven?
If you notice your cake doming while baking, don’t worry! It happens sometimes. Once you take the cakes out of the oven, gently press down on the domed part while they’re still warm to flatten the surface slightly. Ensuring your oven’s temperature is accurate can also help achieve flatter cake layers.
Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
This Christmas Spice Cake contains common allergens, including wheat (from all-purpose flour) and dairy (from butter and milk). If you need a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. You can replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter substitute to accommodate dairy allergies.
Delicious Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
- Gradually mix in milk and eggnog until combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide batter between cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whip softened butter, then gradually add powdered sugar and eggnog until fluffy.
- Once cakes are cooled, frost with Eggnog Buttercream and serve.
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