This Spice Cake is a delightful celebration of warm flavors and cozy aromas, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Infused with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this moist cake offers a comforting taste reminiscent of fall gatherings and holiday celebrations. The addition of applesauce keeps the cake tender while adding a subtle sweetness, and a simple cream cheese frosting brings it all together beautifully. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this Spice Cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this deliciously spiced treat, perfect for any gathering or quiet afternoon at home!
Enjoy your delightful Spice Cake!
