Delightfully Decadent Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Festive Flavor in Every Slice

Growing up as a Florida girl, my heart dances to the rhythm of Mexico’s vibrant flavors. Endless afternoons spent in my Orlando kitchen, pressing tortillas with my mama and absorbing spices from my abuela taught me the true essence of food. Each recipe tells a story and every shared meal is a celebration of love and laughter. While I soak in Orlando’s sunshine, I hold dear the essence of Oaxaca’s bustling markets and my abuela’s warm kitchen. Join me as I share authentic recipes like this moist Christmas spice cake, perfect for dipping into joyful moments with family and friends.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Best Season: Winter, Christmas

What Makes This Cake a Must-Bake

Flavor Packed: This Christmas spice cake is a wonderful medley of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating a nostalgic winter flavor that warms the heart. The eggnog buttercream adds a creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the spices.
Easy to Make: A simple and straightforward recipe, this cake comes together quickly even for beginners. Just a few mixing bowls and a whisk are all you need to create this delicious centerpiece.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dessert, this cake fits every occasion. Its fragrant aroma and festive appearance make it a delightful addition to the dessert table.
Versatile and Adaptable: The spice cake can be modified to suit various preferences, whether you want it vegan or a little spicier. The basic recipe is easy to customize for everyone’s taste.

Essential Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup eggnog
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Amazing Moist Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream 4

SAVE NOW

Ingredient Nuggets of Wisdom

Flour: Use all-purpose flour for lightness and fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, simply add one tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Eggnog: Feel free to use store-bought or homemade eggnog for flexibility.
Spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor significantly, so consider grinding your own if possible.

Step-by-Step to Deliciousness

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Divide the batter equally between the prepared pans and smooth out the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
For the eggnog buttercream, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggnog and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy, ensuring all ingredients are well blended.
Frost the top of one cake layer and place the other on top, then frost the sides and top of the cake generously.
Optional: Decorate with crushed nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to create a festive look.

Tips for Baking Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps in achieving a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Once you’ve added your dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to avoid a tough cake.
Cake Testing: Use the toothpick method to check for doneness; it’s better to underbake slightly for a moist cake.
Chilling Cake: If your cake layers aren’t perfectly flat, use a serrated knife to level them before frosting.

Creative Twists on This Recipe

Vegan Variation: Swap the eggs for flax eggs and replace the butter with vegan margarine for a plant-based delight.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to retain flavor while catering to gluten sensitivities.
Add Some Heat: Incorporating jalapeño or cayenne in the frosting can give a spicy twist to the sweet eggnog.
Regional Spice: Whisk in a bit of Mexican chocolate powder into the batter for a unique regional flair.

What Pairs Perfectly

Serve this cake with the classic holiday drink, spiced apple cider, or a warming cup of coffee. It also beautifully complements the crisp, refreshing taste of a citrus salad for a balanced meal.

Keep It Fresh

Make Ahead: Bake the cake ahead of time and store it wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 days before frosting.
Freezing: Freeze the unfrosted cake layers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
Reheating: If storing sliced cake, microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm slice.

Presentation Ideas

When serving, dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa for an elegant finish. A simple arrangement of fresh berries or a sprig of mint can enhance the visual appeal and offer a burst of color on your dessert platter.

Kitchen Wisdom

Be Creative: Don’t hesitate to add your flair, such as different nuts or a hint of citrus zest in your buttercream.
Involve the Kids: Baking with family is a great way to pass down recipes and create lasting memories.
Leftover Eggnog: Use leftover eggnog to make pancakes or as an ingredient in coffee for a festive morning twist.
Spices Matter: Invest in good quality spices, as they significantly impact the flavor of your cake.

Keeping It Fresh Later

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week. To reheat, gently warm in a microwave; this will help maintain its soft, moist texture.

Common Queries Answered

Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, cake flour can give a softer crumb but adjust the liquid slightly as it absorbs more moisture.
What’s the secret for fluffy buttercream? Make sure the butter is softened yet cool, and beat well to incorporate air into the mixture.
How can I make this cake spicier? Increase the amounts of ginger or cinnamon to amp up the warm flavors.
Can I replace the eggnog? Yes, you can use heavy cream mixed with a teaspoon of nutmeg and vanilla to mimic the flavor of eggnog.
Why is my cake dense? Overmixing the batter or not measuring flour correctly can lead to a dense texture.
Is it normal for the cake to crack? A slight crack is normal and won’t affect the taste; it can be hidden with frosting.
Can I decorate the cake a day in advance? Yes, just store it in a cool place to keep the frosting fresh and beautiful.

Nutritional Overview

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 52g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 38g
Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

From Our Table to Yours

This Christmas spice cake is not merely a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors, warmth, and shared moments with loved ones. The fusion of cozy spices and eggnog buttercream will surely crowd-please at your gatherings, bringing everyone a little closer with every delightful bite.

Ending on a Delicious Note

Gather your loved ones and fill your kitchen with warmth, laughter, and the tempting aroma of this Christmas spice cake. Perfect for sharing, pinning, or simply indulging in quietly, this cake promises to become a tradition worth repeating. Cook it, savor it, and make beautiful memories one slice at a time!