Classic Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Spice Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup whole milk (at room temperature); 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

Nothing welcomes autumn like a warm slice of Spice Cake, enriched with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This fragrant dessert comes together easily with softened butter and is topped with a sprinkle of brown sugar that bakes into a delicate, crackled finish. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for the best texture. It’s the kind of cozy, homemade treat that transforms an ordinary afternoon into something truly special.

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Spice Cake cooling on a wire rack with brown sugar topping

Ingredients for Spice Cake

For the cake

All-purpose flour – The backbone of this cake, so make sure it’s measured correctly.

Baking powder – Essential for that perfect rise.
Baking soda – Works with the baking powder to keep the texture light.
Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth—don’t skip it!
Ground nutmeg – A little goes a long way to enhance the spice blend.

Ground cloves – Delivers a rich, deep flavor that’s unmistakable.
Ground ginger – Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the spices.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Unsalted butter – Softened is key for achieving that smooth batter.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping it rise beautifully.

Eggs – Room temperature eggs blend better for a uniform texture.
Vanilla extract – A must for adding that cozy, aromatic touch.
Whole milk – Room temperature ensures everything mixes together smoothly.

For the topping

Packed light brown sugar – Creates a caramelized, slightly crunchy top layer—so good!

Spice Cake ingredients arranged beautifully on a rustic table

Cook Time for Moist Spice Cake

I always find that timing makes all the difference when baking. This moist Spice Cake comes together quickly, and I promise it’s worth every minute. If you’re short on time, you might love these other healthy baking recipes too!

Step	Time
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	55 minutes

How to Make Spice Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour, tapping out any excess to ensure an even coating.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until the dry ingredients are evenly combined.

Spice Cake dry ingredients being whisked together in a bowl

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with 3/4 cup of whole milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, ensuring the batter is smooth but not overmixed.

Spice Cake batter being mixed with milk and dry ingredients

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake

Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Sprinkle the packed 1/2 cup of light brown sugar evenly over the top of the batter.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Finished Spice Cake with caramelized brown sugar topping

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few secrets that make this Spice Cake even more special. These little tweaks can transform this classic holiday oven-baked dessert into your new family favorite!

Flavor Swap: Try adding orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Diet Tweak: For an allergy-friendly spice cake adaptation, use gluten-free flour and a plant-based milk alternative.

Texture Fix: Make sure your butter and eggs are truly at room temperature—this creates that fluffy cake with cinnamon and nutmeg we all love.
Storage Tip: This moist ginger and clove infused treat stays fresh for days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, I sometimes freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment paper.

If you enjoy this kind of baking, you might also love my pumpkin muffins for another easy fall treat!

Nutrition and Health Benefits

While this Spice Cake is certainly a treat, I love knowing that those warm spices bring more than just flavor to the table. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves have been cherished for generations not just for their taste, but for their comforting properties too.

I always feel good serving this moist ginger and clove infused treat to my family, especially during the holiday season. If you’re looking for more wholesome dessert options, you might enjoy my collection of healthy Thanksgiving desserts that still feel indulgent.

Nutrient	Per Slice (approx.)	Benefits
Cinnamon	1 tsp per serving	Adds warmth and antioxidant properties
Nutmeg	1/2 tsp per serving	Contains essential oils for digestion
Cloves	1/4 tsp per serving	Rich in manganese and anti-inflammatory compounds

For those curious about the history of spice cake, you’ll find that these warming ingredients have been used in baking for centuries across many cultures. I also love making my cottage cheese banana bread when I want something with extra protein.

A Lighter Version of Spice Cake

Sometimes I want to enjoy this fluffy cake with cinnamon and nutmeg without all the indulgence, especially during busy weeks when I’m trying to eat lighter. Over the years, I’ve developed some simple swaps that still deliver that classic holiday oven-baked dessert experience.

Here are my favorite ways to lighten up this beloved recipe:

Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for moisture with less fat
Use whole wheat pastry flour instead of all-purpose for extra fiber

Reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup and add a mashed ripe banana for natural sweetness

If you enjoy baking with healthier ingredients, you’ll love my healthy muffin recipes that are perfect for breakfast or snacks. For another spiced treat that’s naturally lighter, try my snickerdoodle banana bread—it’s become a family favorite!

Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

I’ve learned that good food should be enjoyed by everyone around the table, regardless of dietary needs. When my cousin was diagnosed as diabetic a few years back, I started experimenting with sugar alternatives to make our family recipes more inclusive.

For a diabetic-friendly version of this spice cake, I’ve had great success using stevia or xylitol as natural sweetener options. These sugar alternatives allow you to create a low glycemic treat that still satisfies that craving for something sweet. Another trick I use is reducing the overall portion size and pairing it with a protein-rich topping like Greek yogurt.

For those watching their sugar intake, remember that the spices themselves provide so much flavor that you might need less sweetener than you think. I often make a half-recipe in a smaller pan for better portion control, creating a blood sugar friendly dessert that doesn’t leave me with too much temptation around the house.

How to Serve Spice Cake

I’ll never forget the first time I served this spice cake to my grandmother—she took one bite, closed her eyes, and said it tasted just like the cake her mother used to make during the Depression. That moment made me realize how food connects us across generations.

This brown sugar spiced layer cake is wonderful served slightly warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast between the warm spices and cool cream is simply magical. For special occasions, I sometimes drizzle it with a simple caramel sauce or serve it with a side of spiced roasted pears.

Spice Cake served with whipped cream and cinnamon garnish on a vintage plate

When it comes to beverage pairings, this baked spiced dessert with warm spices pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea or strong coffee. If you’re serving it as part of a larger dessert spread, it complements my lemon blueberry dessert beautifully with its bright citrus notes balancing the warm spices.

For holiday gatherings, I love serving this alongside other festive treats like my mini pecan pies—the variety makes for a beautiful dessert table that pleases everyone. However you choose to serve it, this spice cake recipe always feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve learned that even the simplest spice cake recipe can go sideways if we’re not careful. I’ll never forget the time I accidentally used baking powder instead of baking soda—my poor cake came out flat as a pancake! Here are the most common mistakes I’ve either made myself or seen friends make with this beloved dessert.

First, measuring flour incorrectly can really throw off your results. I always spoon and level my flour rather than scooping directly from the bag, which packs too much into the cup. Too much flour makes your spice cake dense instead of light and fluffy.

Another common error is overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. I gently fold everything together until just combined—a few streaks of flour are better than a tough cake. Overmixing develops gluten and can make your baked spiced dessert with warm spices chewy rather than tender.

Don’t forget to check your spices! Using stale cinnamon or nutmeg will leave your cake tasting flat. I make sure my spices are fresh by giving them a quick sniff—they should smell vibrant and aromatic. If you’re looking for more baking guidance, my collection of healthy baking recipes includes plenty of tips for perfect results every time.

Finally, I’ve learned that oven temperatures can vary wildly. I keep an inexpensive oven thermometer in mine to ensure accurate baking temperatures. For those interested in professional techniques, Martha Stewart’s pumpkin spice variation demonstrates how precise temperature control affects the final product.

Remember, even imperfect cakes taste wonderful—my family still teases me about my “pancake cake” incident, but they ate every crumb with smiles!

How to Store Spice Cake

I’ll never forget the Christmas when my aunt wrapped an entire spice cake in foil and tucked it away in the pantry “for later.” When we rediscovered it two weeks later, it had transformed into something resembling a cinnamon-scented brick! Proper storage makes all the difference in keeping your moist ginger and clove infused treat fresh and delicious.

For short-term storage, I let my spice cake cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it stays fresh for about 3-4 days. If your kitchen tends to be warm, you might want to refrigerate it instead to prevent spoilage.

This classic holiday oven-baked dessert freezes beautifully too! I often wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They thaw perfectly in about an hour at room temperature, making them ideal for quick treats or unexpected guests. For another freezer-friendly option, check out my gluten-free pumpkin bread that stores just as well.

If you need to store a frosted cake, I recommend placing it in the refrigerator with a cake dome or inverted bowl to protect the frosting. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. For those with dietary restrictions, you might find allergy-friendly spice cake adaptations helpful for creating versions that store well with alternative ingredients.

Try This Spice Cake Yourself

There’s something magical about pulling a warm spice cake from the oven and watching your family gather around, drawn by the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and comfort. I still remember my daughter’s first birthday party where this cake was the star—her tiny hands reaching for a second slice while cinnamon smudged her cheeks.

This brown sugar spiced layer cake has become more than just a recipe in our home; it’s a tradition that connects generations. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something cozy, I hope this spice cake brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love my healthy Valentine’s Day desserts for another way to celebrate with sweetness. For more spiced treats, try my best pumpkin muffins or pumpkin cupcakes—they’re perfect for autumn mornings. If you’re feeling adventurous, my pumpkin cookies and pecan pie cheesecake make wonderful additions to any dessert table.

For something completely different but equally delicious, don’t miss my fruity pebbles cheesecake for a colorful treat or my cottage cheese strawberry mousse for a lighter option. Whatever you choose to bake, I’d love to hear how your spice cake turns out—there’s nothing I enjoy more than sharing kitchen stories with fellow baking enthusiasts!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is spice cake made of?

Traditional spice cake combines warm baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes ginger with basic cake ingredients. I use flour, brown sugar, butter, eggs, and buttermilk in my recipe, which creates that wonderfully moist texture we all love. The magic really happens when those aromatic spices blend together during baking.

What’s the difference between carrot cake and spice cake?

While both cakes use warm spices, carrot cake contains shredded carrots which add moisture, sweetness, and texture. Spice cake relies solely on the blend of spices for its flavor profile without the vegetable addition. I think of carrot cake as a spiced cake with extra ingredients, while spice cake celebrates the spices themselves as the main event.

What does spice cake taste like?

A good spice cake tastes like warmth and comfort in every bite! You’ll notice prominent notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, with subtle hints of cloves and ginger creating complexity. The brown sugar adds caramel-like sweetness that complements rather than overwhelms the spices. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy that makes this cake so memorable.

Why is it called spice cake?

It’s called spice cake because the blend of warming spices is the defining characteristic rather than any single ingredient like chocolate or fruit. Historically, these spices were valuable and often used in special occasion baking. The name distinguishes it from other cakes by highlighting what makes it unique—that beautiful medley of spices that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma.

Cozy Fall Baking Ideas to Warm Your Kitchen

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing I love more than filling my home with the scents of autumn baking. These recipes capture that perfect blend of warmth and comfort that makes fall so special.

Apple Cinnamon Muffins – Perfectly spiced morning treats that make your kitchen smell like autumn heaven.

Snickerdoodle Banana Bread – The cozy combination of cinnamon sugar and ripe bananas you never knew you needed.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread – Moist, flavorful, and completely inclusive for your fall gatherings.

Lemon Blueberry Cobbler – Bright citrus meets sweet berries in this unexpected fall favorite.

Mini Pecan Pies – Individual servings of nutty sweetness that are perfect for parties.

Cottage Cheese Banana Bread – Extra protein-packed twist on the classic that keeps you satisfied all morning.

Low Effort Spice Cake For A Cozy Dessert