Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Introduction

Nothing says the holidays quite like the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked spice cake. This Best Christmas Spice Cake paired with luscious Eggnog Buttercream is the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings. With its rich mix of aromatic spices and the creamy sweetness of eggnog frosting, every bite feels like a hug in a slice. Whether you’re sharing with family or enjoying a quiet moment by the fireplace, this cake encapsulates the magic of the season.

Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the eggnog buttercream:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup eggnog
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Nutmeg, for garnish

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings

Directions and Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure a smooth release.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this spiced mixture aside.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
  4. One by one, add the eggs, mixing well after each addition to incorporate that rich eggy goodness.
  5. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, blending until everything is well combined and smooth.
  6. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — we want a tender cake!
  7. Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. For the eggnog buttercream, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  11. Add the eggnog and vanilla extract, mixing until the buttercream is airy and fluffy, perfect for spreading.
  12. Once the cakes have completely cooled, frost the top of one layer, carefully place the second layer on top, and then frost the top and sides of the cake.
  13. To finish, sprinkle a dash of nutmeg on top, adding that final festive touch before serving.

Notes or Tips

  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
  • This cake can be made a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • You can adjust the spice levels according to your taste; feel free to add more cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick!

Cooking Techniques

Here are a few helpful techniques to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:

  • When greasing the cake pans, using parchment paper at the bottom can help ensure easy removal.
  • Use the toothpick test to check for doneness — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  • For a smoother frosting application, make sure your butter for the buttercream is well softened.

FAQ

Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Yes! You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can refrigerate it to extend the freshness, but allow it to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Conclusion

This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is sure to become a beloved tradition at your holiday celebrations. Each slice is filled with the essence of the season, making it a delightful treat for family and friends alike. Enjoy the flavors of warmth and cheer, and may your holidays be sweetened with the spirit of baking!

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