If you adore rich, flavorful cakes that feel like a warm hug in every bite, then you are in for a treat with this Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This cake is the perfect balance of fragrant spices, tender crumb, and that luscious cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting that elevates it beyond your everyday dessert. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a cozy gathering, or simply because you deserve something special, this recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a cake that’s irresistibly moist and packed with comforting spice. Trust me, once you try it, this will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is straightforward but crucial for that perfect texture and flavor that will keep everyone asking for seconds. Each component contributes to the cake’s moistness, spiciness, and that silky frosting finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and a soft crumb to the cake.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the batter.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with the cake’s tenderness.
- 3 large eggs: Binds ingredients while contributing richness and lift.
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist without weighing it down.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and helps maintain moisture.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the crumb and adds subtle tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda & 1 teaspoon baking powder: Give the perfect rise for a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the cake’s sweet and spice flavors.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warmth into every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of earthy sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Brings a cozy, aromatic note to the spice blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle zing that balances the sweet spices.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates all the flavors and adds richness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: For that luscious, tangy frosting base.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings creaminess and stability to the frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect spreading consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aroma and enhances the frosting’s sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the frosting with an irresistible hint of spice.
How to Make Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake releases beautifully after baking. Getting this step done early means the batter goes right into the oven when it’s ready, preserving the leavening power of the baking soda and powder.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your aromatic spice mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, preventing any clumps and setting the stage for a beautifully spiced cake.
Step 3: Cream Together Eggs and Sugars
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture turns creamy and slightly pale. This step is essential because it introduces air into the batter, which helps the cake rise and gives it a lovely fluffy texture.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Now, mix in the vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, buttermilk, and vanilla extract to your wet mixture. The applesauce is a clever ingredient here; it helps keep the cake moist while adding natural sweetness without extra fat.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet one, mixing gently until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix at this stage—overworking the batter can lead to a denser cake, which we definitely want to avoid with this Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma of spices filling your kitchen by this point is a delicious reward in itself!
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before moving on to frosting. This ensures the cream cheese frosting stays smooth and doesn’t melt into the cake, preserving that perfect creamy texture and neat presentation.
Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Then, add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, and continue beating until the frosting becomes delightfully fluffy. This frosting is the ultimate complement to the spiced cake, offering a creamy tanginess with a warm cinnamon twist.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled cake. Take a moment to admire your handiwork before slicing—each slice should reveal a tender, moist crumb beneath that luscious frosting. Serve and prepare for all the compliments headed your way!
How to Serve Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe even more inviting, consider a dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans on top. These simple garnishes add a bit of textural contrast and beautifully highlight the cake’s warm spices.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to turn it into a more decadent dessert experience. For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh autumn fruits like sliced pears or spiced apple compote to complement the cake’s flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into small squares for a charming bite-sized dessert tray perfect for parties or afternoon tea. Alternatively, layer slices with extra frosting and a handful of toasted nuts to create a rustic spice cake trifle that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to refrigerate, the cake will stay fresh for about 4-5 days, just bring it back to room temperature for the best flavor before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost as directed. For frosted cake, freezing is possible in an airtight container, but let it thaw slowly in the fridge to avoid condensation on the frosting.
Reheating
Although this cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, you can slightly warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This gentle warmth helps to revive that freshly baked tenderness, making each bite even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I substitute applesauce with something else?
Absolutely! You can use mashed banana or plain yogurt as alternatives to applesauce, but keep in mind these substitutions might alter the flavor slightly. Applesauce is preferred here for its neutral sweetness and moisture.
Is it necessary to use both baking soda and baking powder?
Yes, the combination of baking soda and baking powder ensures the cake rises perfectly while achieving a light but moist crumb. Baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients like buttermilk, balancing the batter’s pH and enhancing texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You may need to tweak the baking time slightly and ensure your spices and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can make a simple buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to half a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before incorporating into the batter.
How do I prevent the cream cheese frosting from being too runny?
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melting warm. Beat them well before adding powdered sugar gradually. If the frosting feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the cake.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe enough if you’re craving a cake that’s bursting with welcoming, warm spices and finished with a frosting you’ll want to scoop straight from the bowl. It’s a recipe that feels special yet is accessible for any home baker, promising smiles and full plates around your table. So grab your mixing bowls, and let this delightful cake fill your kitchen and heart with sweet, spiced joy!
Print
Super Moist Spice Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Super Moist Spice Cake delivers a perfect balance of warm spices and moist, tender crumb. Featuring a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, it’s a cozy treat ideal for gatherings or special occasions. The cake is topped with a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting that adds richness without overpowering the spice flavors.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Beat Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs along with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and well combined, creating a smooth base for the cake batter.
- Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the vegetable oil, unsweetened applesauce, buttermilk, and vanilla extract into the beaten egg and sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are combined, creating a moist batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and airy.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Cooling prevents the frosting from melting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into 12 servings and enjoy this moist and flavorful spice cake.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- You can substitute buttermilk with an equal amount of milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice, let it sit for 5 minutes before use.
- For a vegan option, replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Adding walnuts or pecans to the batter can add a nice crunch if desired.
