introduction

This cake feels warm and kind. It has spice and a soft crumb. It fits the cold days and the big family night. For a basic holiday cake idea, see a simple Christmas cake guide for more ways to make it special.

why make this recipe

You make this cake to bring a warm smell to your home. You make it to feed friends and kids who like spice and sweet frost. It fits a gift, a party, or a calm night. For a fun twist on shapes and show, look at the easy tree cake idea to get more art tips.

how to make Moist Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

This cake uses warm spice and rich eggnog frost. You mix dry and wet parts, bake two round cakes, cool them, and frost. Use soft butter and room heat eggs. For spice cake method tips, you can read a note on a gingerbread cake method to learn more ways to fold and mix.

Ingredients :

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup eggnog
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For help on soft cake textures, see a guide on a soft and moist cake.

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
For the eggnog buttercream, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy.
Gradually mix in eggnog and vanilla extract until well combined and creamy.
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the tops of one cake layer, stack the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate as desired and serve for a festive holiday treat!

how to serve Moist Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Slice the cake with a sharp knife. Serve on a plate with a small fork. Add a light dust of cinnamon on top if you like. Offer warm milk, tea, or coffee to make the meal cozy.

how to store Moist Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Cover the cake with a cake dome or wrap it in foil. Keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. You can freeze slices in a box for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before you eat.

tips to make Moist Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Use room warm butter and eggs for a smooth batter.
Do not over mix after you add dry flour. Mix just till you see no streaks.
Check the cake at 25 minutes to avoid dry cake.
Use real eggnog for best taste. If you need a dairy-free idea, read a vegan spice cake note for swap ideas.
Let the cake cool fully before you frost to keep the frost smooth.

variation (if any)

Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for a nutty bite.
Swap some eggnog for a splash of rum for adults.
Mix a little cream cheese with the buttercream for a tangy frost.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake in one pan?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan and bake longer. Check with a toothpick till it comes out clean.

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to a cup of milk and wait 5 minutes to make a quick buttermilk.

Q: Can I make the buttercream less sweet?
A: Yes. Use a bit less powdered sugar and add a pinch more eggnog or butter to keep the spreadable feel.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead?
A: Yes. Make the layers a day ahead and wrap them. Frost on the day you serve for the best look.

Conclusion

This cake gives warm spice and a soft feel for the holidays. For one full write up and extra photos, see the Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream recipe on Hunger Thirst Play.