Name: Moist Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option); 1 cup milk (or almond milk for dairy-free); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter for richer flavor); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup eggnog; 1/2 cup butter (softened); 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

As I unwrapped the spices tucked away in my pantry, the rich aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafted through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is my go-to recipe for capturing that festive spirit. Not only is it surprisingly easy to whip up, but this cake also comes together quickly—perfect for those busy December days. Each slice reveals layers of moist cake infused with traditional holiday flavors, while the creamy eggnog buttercream adds a touch of indulgence that will impress any guest. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet finale for family dinners, this vegetarian treat is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. What festive memories will you create while baking this delightful cake?

What Makes This Cake So Irresistible?

Moist, Fluffy Texture: This cake is incredibly light and fluffy, creating the perfect mouthfeel with each bite.

Festive Flavor Explosion: The warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg dance harmoniously, filling your home with delightful holiday aromas.

Easy to Make: Simple steps and accessible ingredients mean that even novice bakers can impress their guests with minimal effort.

Crowd-Pleaser: This seasonal treat is sure to win over family and friends, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering.

Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy slices of this cake with your morning coffee or hot cocoa, transforming everyday moments into a festive occasion! Consider pairing it with cozy options like our Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey Feta for a complete holiday snack spread.

Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and body to the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
• Baking soda – Works with acidic ingredients for enhanced leavening.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy flavor that invokes holiday nostalgia.
• Ground ginger – Brings a characteristic warmth perfect for festive baking.
• Ground nutmeg – Infuses the cake with a deep, aromatic flavor.
• Salt – Balances sweetness while enhancing other flavors.
• Sugar – Sweetens the cake and aids in moisture retention.
• Eggs – Bind ingredients together and contribute to moisture and richness; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Milk – Adds moisture and richness; almond milk serves as a great dairy-free substitute.
• Vegetable oil – Helps keep the cake wonderfully moist; melted butter can be used for a richer flavor.
• Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall flavor of the cake.

For the Eggnog Buttercream
• Eggnog – Serves as the base for the frosting, offering a holiday flavor explosion.
• Butter – Adds richness and creates a smooth texture for the frosting.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream to perfection.
• Ground nutmeg – Enhances the festive flavor profile of the buttercream.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter that is ready for baking.

Step 2: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the spice cake batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You want the cakes to be golden brown and springy to the touch. Allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 3: Cool Completely
Once the cakes have cooled in their pans, gently remove them and place them on wire racks to cool completely. It’s important to ensure they are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the eggnog buttercream from melting. While cooling, enjoy the warm, fragrant spices wafting through your kitchen, setting the mood for your Christmas Spice Cake.

Step 4: Make the Eggnog Buttercream
While your cakes are cooling, prepare the eggnog buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined, then increase the speed. Slowly pour in eggnog and continue to mix until smooth and fluffy. Finally, mix in the ground nutmeg for that extra holiday flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cooled Christmas Spice Cake on a decorating plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of the eggnog buttercream evenly across the top of the first layer, allowing some to spill over the edges for a beautiful look. Gently position the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining buttercream for a festive finish.

Step 6: Decorate as Desired
For a charming touch, decorate your finished cake with festive sprinkles, cinnamon sticks, or additional ground nutmeg on top of the frosting. This step adds a personal touch to your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream and makes it visually appealing for any holiday gathering. Serve slices alongside your favorite warm beverages to create a cozy festive atmosphere.

Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own; there are many delightful twists you can explore!

Nutty Bliss: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the cake’s spices beautifully. Your guests will be savoring the textures as much as the flavors!
Tangy Cream Cheese: Swap the eggnog in the buttercream with flavored cream cheese for a tangy, rich twist that adds depth to your cake. This variation brings a delightful contrast to the sweetness and makes every bite even more interesting.
Fruit-Filled Delight: Layer a cranberry or spiced apple filling between the cake layers for a fruity surprise. Each slice will burst with bright flavors, adding a festive touch that perfectly balances the spices.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. This adaptation allows everyone to enjoy the dessert without missing out on the holiday cheer.
Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, replace milk with almond milk and use dairy-free butter for the eggnog buttercream. It can be just as creamy and delicious while accommodating different dietary needs!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter for an unexpected heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the eggnog buttercream. It’ll definitely surprise and delight adventurous palates!
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey spin on this classic treat. The chocolate flavors alongside the spices create an indulgent holiday dessert experience.
Scoop and Serve: For a fun twist, layer the cake into dessert cups with whipped cream or ice cream and drizzle with caramel sauce. It’s a festive and playful way to serve this holiday favorite.

No matter how you choose to customize it, remember that the joy of baking often comes from making it your own! Enjoy a slice while sipping on a cozy cup of hot cocoa, perhaps alongside our Sweet Potato Rounds with Honey Feta for the perfect holiday spread.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep it moist and fresh. If cut, wrap each slice in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best taste.

Reheating: If desired, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy the cake warm, enhancing the flavors of your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream.

Frosting Storage: Keep leftover eggnog buttercream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Rewhip before using to restore its creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Cool Completely: Always let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the eggnog buttercream from melting and sliding off the cake.
Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Old spices can lose their potency, dulling your cake’s taste.
Proper Measuring: Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can result in a dense cake rather than a fluffy spice cake with eggnog buttercream.
Decorating Made Easy: Use an offset spatula to help create a smooth finish on the buttercream. Practice makes perfect, so don’t rush this step!
Make Ahead: Consider making the spice cake layers ahead of time and freezing them. This saves time on a busy holiday baking day and enhances the flavors!
Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and a delightful twist on the traditional spice cake with eggnog buttercream.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and then cool them completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap to refrigerate, keeping them moist. Similarly, the eggnog buttercream can be prepared up to 3 days ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, allow the buttercream to come to room temperature before frosting the cake. This way, you can enjoy fluffy, delicious results with minimal effort on the day of your festive gathering—making your baking experience as delightful as the cake itself!

What to Serve with Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Elevate your festive gatherings by pairing this scrumptious cake with complementary dishes that enhance your holiday spirit.

Classic Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavors of hot cocoa provide a comforting contrast to the warm spices in the cake, making it a nostalgic holiday favorite.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These pillowy delights echo the cake’s spiced essence, adding a playful texture that encourages indulgence in every bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing brightness, balancing the rich eggnog buttercream with its juicy sweetness.
Warm Apple Cider: Aromatic and spiced, warm apple cider is the perfect beverage partner, bringing forth cozy vibes that will resonate with every guest.
Pecan Tarts: These nutty bites bring a crunchy texture that plays beautifully with the softness of the cake, creating a delightful party of flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream introduces a creamy element that complements the spice cake, creating a classic dessert duo that everyone loves.
Holiday Cheese Board: Include a selection of aged cheeses and spiced crackers to offer a savory contrast to the sweet cake; the balance will surely enchant your guests.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea enriches the experience, enhancing the cake’s flavors while providing a soothing alternative for non-coffee drinkers.
Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies resonate with the same spices found in the cake, drawing everyone into a rich holiday flavor experience.
Pumpkin Pie: A slice of creamy pumpkin pie will evoke memories of family gatherings, creating a nostalgic touch alongside your Christmas treat.

Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right spices for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for fresh ground spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Over time, spices can lose their potency, so checking their expiration date and replacing any that are old will ensure that your Christmas Spice Cake is full of delightful flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
To keep your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream moist, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If the cake is cut, wrap each slice in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent dryness. It’s an easy fix to keep it delicious for days after baking!

Can I freeze the cake, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your cake! First, let it cool completely. Then wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. This method helps retain its moisture and flavor!

What if my cake turns out dense?
If your Christmas Spice Cake is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you measure flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Always mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake. Avoiding overmixing is key to achieving that delightful texture!

Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider?
Of course! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. For vegan alternatives, consider using flax eggs in place of regular eggs and almond milk instead of dairy milk. Always check the labels for allergens, particularly for the eggnog used in the buttercream, as some brands may contain dairy or nuts. This way, your holiday dessert can be enjoyed by everyone!