As I stood in my kitchen, the intoxicating aroma of warm spices began to swirl around me, instantly transporting me to my fondest holiday memories. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream has become a cherished tradition in my home, filling the air with notes of cinnamon and nutmeg that beckon everyone to the table. What I love most about this festive dessert is not just its delightful flavor, but the quick prep time that means more moments spent with family rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, with easy substitutions for those with dietary needs, it’s a crowd-pleaser for everyone. Are you ready to create a sweet centerpiece for your holiday gatherings that will leave your loved ones asking for the recipe?
Why is this cake a holiday favorite?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment you bake this cake, your kitchen fills with the cozy scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, instantly creating holiday cheer.
Quick and Easy: With a straightforward recipe that requires minimal time, it’s designed for busy home chefs who want to enjoy the festivities without the fuss.
Customizable: Dietary restrictions? No problem! You can easily swap ingredients, like using coconut oil for a dairy-free frosting or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Family Tradition: This Christmas spice cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition that brings family and friends together, making each bite a delightful shared experience.
Showstopping Presentation: Frosted with creamy eggnog buttercream, this cake is not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table, reminiscent of the festive spirit.
Add your own twist by pairing it with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for an unforgettable holiday gathering!
Christmas Spice Cake Ingredients
• Bake up a holiday favorite with these delightful ingredients!
For the Cake
• Cake Flour – Provides structure; can be replaced with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch for a tender texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness that balances the spices.
• Baking Powder – Necessary leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances the sweetness; use fine salt for even distribution.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and can be substituted with ground ginger for a different twist.
• Ground Cinnamon – A must-have for traditional holiday spice notes.
• Eggnog – Provides moisture and festive flavor; substitute with a milk and cream mix if needed.
• Oil – Adds moisture; swap with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Enriches the cake with vanilla flavor; pure vanilla extract works well, too.
• Rum Extract – Optional for extra flavor; more vanilla can be used if omitted.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; no substitute recommended for the best outcome.
For the Eggnog Buttercream
• Unsalted Butter – Provides creaminess in the frosting; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.
• Confectioner’s Sugar – Crucial for sweetness and texture; essential for a smooth buttercream.
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 it heats, grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal later. A light dusting of flour over the greased surface will help your cake layers release beautifully after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients is crucial for your Christmas spice cake, so make sure everything is well incorporated and free of lumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the eggnog, milk, oil, vanilla bean paste, rum extract, and eggs. Whisk until you achieve a smooth consistency and the ingredients are fully combined. This moist mixture is vital for the cake’s flavor and texture, so take your time with it.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the cold butter cut into chunks to the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a mixer on low speed, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures that the butter is evenly distributed, leading to a tender crumb in your Christmas spice cake.
Step 5: Incorporate Liquid Mixture
Gradually pour in the wet mixture you prepared in Step 3. Mix on low speed just until the ingredients are combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy, maintaining a light texture for the best results.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center. The cakes will be golden brown on top and smell wonderfully fragrant when done.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely. Ensuring they cool completely is essential for a smooth frosting application with your eggnog buttercream.
Step 8: Make the Eggnog Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, alternating with a splash of milk, and continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust with additional milk if necessary for your desired texture.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are cool, it’s time to frost! Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous layer of eggnog buttercream on top, then carefully place the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake for a festive finish.
What to Serve with Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
There’s nothing quite like creating a joyful spread to accompany your festive centerpiece, bringing warmth and delight to your holiday gatherings.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Luxuriously smooth with butter, these potatoes provide a comforting counterpart to the cake’s rich flavors.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm and fragrant drink that enhances the cozy spices in the cake, inviting guests to relax and enjoy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a savory contrast, balancing the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
- Chocolate Martini: A fun and indulgent drink that pairs the festive spirit with a hint of decadence, perfect for toasting.
- Forest Berry Salad: Fresh berries and crisp greens create a refreshing contrast that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table.
- Gingerbread Cookies: For an extra touch of holiday cheer, these spiced treats echo the cake’s flavors while adding a crunchy texture.
- Peppermint Hot Cocoa: This delightful, chocolatey drink topped with whipped cream makes a splendid pairing, evoking the warmth of the holidays in every sip.
- Sugar Cookies: Soft and sweet, these cookies make for a nostalgic addition that complements the festive vibes surrounding the cake.
With each pairing, you’ll create a memorable holiday meal that celebrates the flavors of the season!
Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful cake to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for a gluten-free option. Your cake will still be moist and flavorful.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter in the frosting. This adds a lovely tropical touch to the traditional flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for wonderful crunch and a great contrast in texture against the soft cake.
- Extra Spice: For an additional flavor kick, mix in a teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients. This twist elevates the warm, festive character beautifully!
- Frosting Alternatives: Use cream cheese frosting instead of eggnog buttercream for a tangy, rich option. Or try a chocolate frosting for an exciting contrast to the spices.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Both complement the spiced cake perfectly!
- Sweet and Fruity: Add in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. They bring a bit of holiday cheer to your cake.
- Layer It Up: Create a layered version using multiple cake layers with varied frostings in between for a visual and taste delight at your gatherings.
With these variations, your Christmas spice cake will be the talk of your holiday festivities! And if you’re looking for more festive ideas, consider trying a delightful Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake or a luscious Peach Cake Brown to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Expert Tips for Christmas Spice Cake
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Avoid Overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense cake; mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
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Cool Completely: Let the cake layers cool entirely before frosting with the eggnog buttercream to prevent melting and ensure a beautiful finish.
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Adjust Buttercream Consistency: If your eggnog buttercream is too thick, add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap ground nutmeg with ginger or customize your frosting with flavors like chocolate for a unique twist on the classic Christmas spice cake.
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Double Check Freshness: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise to ensure a perfectly fluffy cake.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake layers individually for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the oven to revive its flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap them in plastic wrap once cooled to maintain moisture. The eggnog buttercream can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, let the frosting come to room temperature and rewhip for a smooth consistency. This way, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of a homemade dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour is best for this cake?
Absolutely! Cake flour is ideal for this recipe as it gives the cake a light and tender texture. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with all-purpose flour; just mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to mimic cake flour’s properties.
How should I store any leftover cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just be sure it’s wrapped well to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the Christmas spice cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake! Individually wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe can easily be adapted for dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter in the frosting with coconut oil and use a dairy-free eggnog. Additionally, almond flour can replace the cake flour for a gluten-free version. Just watch the moisture levels, as gluten-free flour can sometimes absorb more liquid.
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
Commonly, if your Christmas spice cake turns out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder. Always mix until just combined and ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. If you suspect overmixing, fold in your wet and dry ingredients gently to maintain that airy texture.
Delightful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: eggnog, milk, oil, vanilla bean paste, rum extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Add cold butter cut into chunks to the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually combine the wet mixture with the dry mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
- Divide the batter between the two prepared pans and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the unsalted butter until fluffy, then gradually add confectioner's sugar and milk until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost the cake layers with eggnog buttercream, applying a generous layer between the cakes and around the sides.
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