Buttermilk Spice Cake Recipe – A Warm and Cozy Treat!
Buttermilk Spice Cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy when you’re craving something warm and comforting.
With a rich blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake is moist, tender, and filled with flavors that evoke cozy gatherings.
Paired with a creamy frosting, it’s a treat that’ll quickly become a favorite in your home. Let’s get baking!
How to Make Buttermilk Spice Cake
In this section, we’ll walk through the full recipe process to create this flavorful cake from scratch.
Ingredients for Buttermilk Spice Cake
This cake combines pantry staples with aromatic spices to deliver its signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of baking this delightful cake.
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this aside for later.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
This step helps create a tender cake texture.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, add the eggs to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract for a hint of extra flavor.
4. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk.
Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the Cake
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and optional ground cinnamon, and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
8. Frost the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top, then stack the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it as desired.
Tips for the Best Buttermilk Spice Cake
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will give the cake a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Top the frosted cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few candied pecans for an elegant finish.
Storing the Cake
- At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: If frosted, keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Store them wrapped at room temperature, and frost before serving.
Can I substitute buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
What other spices can I add?
You can add ground ginger or allspice for an even more complex flavor profile.
Enjoy It!
Let’s enjoy a slice of this irresistible Buttermilk Spice Cake! Its rich, spiced flavors and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family. Happy baking!
