The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen during the holidays. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream combines the nostalgic flavors of traditional spices with the smooth richness of eggnog, making it a festive centerpiece fit for any celebration. Not only is this cake a delightful treat to share with friends and family, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring you can spend more time making merry and less time in the kitchen. Plus, with options for dairy-free substitutes, everyone can savor a slice without worry. So, are you ready to bring some holiday cheer to your tabletop? Let’s bake this deliciousness together!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavors: The warm symphony of cinnamon and nutmeg will have your taste buds dancing with joy, reflecting the essence of festive cheer.
Easy to Make: Even beginner bakers can master this simple recipe, allowing you to focus on the fun of holiday gatherings rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Dietary Flexibility: With options for dairy-free eggnog, this cake ensures everyone at your table can indulge in a slice, eliminating any concerns about dietary restrictions.
Stunning Presentation: Beautifully frosted with creamy eggnog buttercream, this cake is not just delicious—it’s a showstopper perfect for parties.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the layers in advance and frost just before serving to maintain that fresh, delightful taste. For other make-ahead ideas, check out this Coffee Cake Cozy recipe!
Christmas Spice Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Cake Flour – Provides a light texture for the cake. Substitution: Use all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch—1 cup all-purpose flour minus 2 tablespoons plus 2 tablespoons cornstarch per cup needed.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cake. Standard sugar can be used; brown sugar can add additional moisture and depth.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent for fluffiness. Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
- Salt – Enhances flavor. A small amount balances sweetness.
- Nutmeg – Adds warm, festive flavor. Substitutable with allspice or cinnamon if desired.
- Cinnamon – Provides a comforting spice note.
- Eggnog – Main flavor component, lends moisture. Substitution: 3/4 cup milk, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for every cup of eggnog.
- Milk – Adds moisture and richness. Can be substituted with a non-dairy milk.
- Vegetable Oil – Helps maintain moistness. Coconut oil can be used equally.
- Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor. Pure vanilla extract works well too.
- Rum Extract – Adds depth and a hint of warmth. Optional, can be omitted.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients together. Aquafaba can be substituted for a vegan option.
For the Eggnog Buttercream
- Butter – Main fat for buttercream. Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version.
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens and thickens buttercream.
- Additional Milk – For achieving desired frosting consistency.
- Salt – Balances sweetness in buttercream.
Now that you’re armed with the perfect ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a delightful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream that will warm hearts and bring festive cheer to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it warms, prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them thoroughly, ensuring a non-stick surface for easy cake removal later. This initial step sets the stage for a perfect bake for your Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until well blended. You want to ensure even distribution of the spices that will give your Christmas Spice Cake its festive flavor. This mixture should appear light and fluffy, signaling the perfect foundation for your cake.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine eggnog, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, rum extract, and eggs. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture. The eggnog will add a delightful moisture to your cake, enhancing both its taste and texture. This liquid base is key to bringing everything together beautifully.
Step 4: Create the Batter
With the dry mixture ready, cut the butter into small chunks and add it to the dry ingredients. Using a mixer on low speed, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for creating a tender crumb texture in your Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures Carefully
Gradually pour in the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as you want to keep your batter light and airy. The batter should be smooth with a few lumps remaining, capturing the essence of festive flavors beautifully without compromising texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide your batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. The cakes are done when they slightly pull away from the edges of the pans and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps maintain moisture while making it easier to release them from the pans. After cooling, carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Buttercream
To create the eggnog buttercream, beat the room-temperature butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, mixing well until combined. Slowly incorporate the additional milk and flavorings, adjusting the consistency as needed for a smooth, spreadable frosting that will beautifully top your Christmas Spice Cake.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once your cake layers are fully cooled, it’s time to frost! Place one layer on a cake stand, spreading a generous layer of buttercream between the two layers and on top and around the sides of the cake. This festive addition perfectly complements the spiced flavor of your cake, creating an inviting dessert for your holiday gatherings.
Expert Tips for Christmas Spice Cake
Mixing Matters: Use low speed to combine wet and dry ingredients, ensuring not to overmix for a light, fluffy Christmas Spice Cake texture.
Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter for the buttercream is at room temperature to achieve a creamy, well-blended frosting for your cake.
Doneness Check: Use a toothpick to check for doneness; a few crumbs should stick, indicating moistness without overbaking your cake.
Eggnog Alternatives: If using eggnog alternatives, make sure they’re well-blended for consistency in both the cake and buttercream.
Cooling Time: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting; warm cakes can cause the buttercream to melt and slide.
What to Serve with Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Indulging in a slice of festive cake is only the beginning—let’s build a holiday table that sings with flavor and joy.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart, vibrant sauce that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, adding a refreshing twist.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, fragrant apple cider spiced with cinnamon and cloves creates a cozy, comforting drink pairing.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp and caramelized, these add a savory balance to the sweet spices of the cake, complementing its rich flavor beautifully.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The same spices found in your cake shine through in these classic cookies, perfect for a festive nibble alongside.
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Eggnog: Enhance the creamy sweetness with a glass of eggnog, elevating your dessert experience and tying together holiday flavors.
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Chocolate Ganache: A drizzle of rich ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence, inviting chocolate lovers to the table for a decadent treat.
Hosting this holiday season? Don’t forget to serve these dishes together; they create a harmonious melody of flavors that will have everyone feeling merry and bright.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking, cooling, and tightly wrapping them in plastic wrap; this keeps them moist and flavorful. The eggnog buttercream can also be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just be sure to let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip before frosting. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer and frost the cake, ensuring it retains that just-made taste everyone loves. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time and be free to enjoy festive gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake
Room Temperature: Store the unfrosted cake covered in a cake dome or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you’ve frosted your Christmas Spice Cake, keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If serving leftovers, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste, while keeping the rich eggnog buttercream intact.
Christmas Spice Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this delightful Christmas Spice Cake your own—let your imagination and culinary instincts lead the way!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk for a delicious dairy-free treat. The luscious flavor remains intact while accommodating dietary needs.
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Eggnog Alternative: For a lighter flavor, swap eggnog with 3/4 cup milk and 1/4 cup heavy cream, adding a touch of nutmeg. Your cake will still capture that holiday essence without the eggnog.
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Flavor Boost: Include citrus zest, like orange or lemon, in your batter for a zesty twist that brightens up the warm spices beautifully. This unexpected burst of flavor surprises the palate in the best way.
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Nuts & Fruits: Fold in chopped nuts or dried fruits, such as walnuts or cranberries, for added texture and flavor. This variation enhances the seasonal charm of your cake, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Gluten-Free: Replace the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s suitable for gluten-free guests. It’s a thoughtful touch for those with dietary restrictions without compromising taste!
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Spice Level: Adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your preferences. Try incorporating different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
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Mini Cakes: Bake the batter into mini cakes or cupcakes, reducing baking time for a fun, bite-sized version of this festive delight. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gift-giving!
These variations make your Christmas Spice Cake a festive, versatile dessert for all to enjoy, just like my beloved family recipes such as Espresso Cupcakes Espresso and Dubai Chocolate Cake. So get creative and spread the holiday cheer!
Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my spices are fresh?
Absolutely! The potency of spices can wane over time. To ensure freshness, check the expiry date and perform a sniff test; fresh spices should have a robust aromatic scent. If they lack fragrance, it’s time to replace them!
How should I store my Christmas Spice Cake?
I recommend storing the unfrosted cake at room temperature, covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap for up to 3 days. If frosted, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember, it’s best served at room temperature!
Can I freeze my Christmas Spice Cake?
Very! To freeze, wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight, and enjoy that freshly baked taste upon serving!
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Don’t worry, this happens sometimes! A sunken cake often results from overmixing the batter or undercooking. For next time, mix until just combined and use a toothpick to check for doneness. If your cake sinks, you can transform it into a trifle by layering with custard and fruits!
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free alternative, substitute the traditional eggnog with a non-dairy milk mixture—3/4 cup almond milk combined with 1/4 cup coconut cream and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg works beautifully. You can also use coconut oil in place of butter for the frosting!
Can pets consume any part of this cake?
It’s best to keep this holiday treat away from pets. Ingredients like nutmeg and chocolate (if present) can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always prioritize your furry friends’ health by keeping human sweets strictly for human indulgence!
Irresistible Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, combine eggnog, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla, rum extract, and eggs, whisk until smooth.
- Add butter to the dry mixture and blend on low speed until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually pour in the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the buttercream, beat the butter until fluffy, then gradually add confectioner’s sugar, mixing well.
- Incorporate additional milk and flavorings for a smooth frosting.
- Frost the cooled cake layers with buttercream between and around the cake.
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