When you think of spice cake, imagine a warm slice adorned with cinnamon and nutmeg, its cozy aroma wrapping around you like a favorite blanket. The first bite reveals a tender crumb that dances on your taste buds, while hints of clove and ginger bring the party to life. Whether it’s a chilly autumn afternoon or a festive holiday gathering, this cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience that makes your heart sing and your stomach rejoice.

I remember the first time I baked a spice cake. My kitchen was filled with delightful spices, and I could hardly wait to share it with my family. The moment they took that first bite, their eyes widened in delight—it was pure magic! This is the kind of cake that deserves a place at every celebration or casual Sunday brunch because who doesn’t love a treat that feels both festive and homey?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This spice cake recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- The warm spices create a flavor profile that is comforting yet exciting
- Its golden-brown color makes it visually appealing, ideal for any table setting
- Enjoy it plain or dressed up with frosting; this cake adapts beautifully to any occasion
I’ve made this spice cake for countless family gatherings, and every time it disappears faster than I can say “second slice.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: A versatile base for the cake; ensure it’s freshly opened for optimal fluffiness.
Baking Powder: Essential for that delightful rise; check the expiration date for best results.
Cinnamon: The star of the spice show; use ground cinnamon for an aromatic punch.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds warmth; fresh nutmeg will elevate the flavor significantly.
Cloves: Ground cloves provide depth; too much can overwhelm, so use sparingly.
Ginger: Fresh or ground ginger adds zest; don’t skip this key ingredient!
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential; consider using brown sugar for added moisture.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness; room temperature eggs work best.
Vegetable Oil: Creates tenderness in the cake; you can substitute with melted butter if preferred.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all flavors beautifully; opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation if possible.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter; whole milk works wonders here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make spice cake
Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until well combined—about 30 seconds should do it!
Cream Sugar and Eggs: In another bowl, beat granulated sugar with eggs until light and fluffy—this takes about 2 minutes of vigorous mixing.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in vegetable oil and milk into the egg mixture. Add vanilla extract too! Mix until everything is combined smoothly without lumps.
Combine Mixtures Together : Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture while folding gently—this keeps your batter airy and light!
Bake Your Cake : Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
And there you have it—a deliciously fragrant spice cake ready to be devoured! Don’t forget to let it cool slightly before cutting into those heavenly slices. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This spice cake is more than just dessert; it’s a warm hug in cake form
- The aromatic blend of spices creates a delightful sensory experience, making every bite feel like a cozy celebration
- Perfect for any occasion, it’s bound to impress your guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the eggs one at a time. This ensures a well-emulsified batter that bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the raisins for nuts or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. You can even top it with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer preservation, refrigerate it, but bring it back to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This spice cake recipe thrives on quality spices; fresh ones create the best flavor
- Be cautious not to overmix after adding flour, as this can lead to a dense texture
- Always test doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out clean!
It was my grandmother’s favorite dessert, and her laughter still echoes through my kitchen whenever I bake this spice cake. Friends say they can smell it from blocks away!
FAQ
What spices are essential in spice cake?
Typical spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for that classic flavor profile.
Can I make spice cake without dairy?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and vegan butter as perfect substitutes.
How long does spice cake last?
Properly stored, it lasts about three days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
Spice Cake
Indulge in the warmth of this spice cake, perfect for any occasion. With a delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, each slice offers a tender crumb that captivates your taste buds. This easy-to-follow recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a heartwarming addition to your dessert table, making it ideal for family gatherings or festive celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Mix in vegetable oil and milk with the egg mixture until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while folding gently to maintain airiness.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider substituting half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar. - Top with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist or enjoy plain for a more rustic feel.







