Name: Irresistible Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Cake Flour (or substitute with all-purpose flour and cornstarch); 1 cups Sugar (granulated); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Nutmeg (freshly grated for maximum flavor); 1 tsp Cinnamon (ground); 1 cup Eggnog (substitute with a mix of milk and cream for dairy-free option); 1/2 cup Milk (any nut-milk can work for dairy-free); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (or melted coconut oil); 1 tbsp Vanilla Bean Paste (or vanilla extract); 1 tsp Rum Extract (optional); 3 Eggs (large); 1 cup Butter (softened, coconut oil for dairy-free); 4 cups Confectioner’s Sugar; 1/2 tsp Nutmeg (freshly grated); 1/4 tsp Salt

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As the first hints of winter approach, I can’t help but recall the scent of warm spices wafting through the air, signaling the start of holiday baking. This year, I’m thrilled to share my Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream—a festive delight that shines in both flavor and presentation. Perfect for those busy days filled with holiday cheer, this easy recipe offers a soft, spiced cake paired with a creamy buttercream that will elevate any celebration. Plus, with a dairy-free option available, it’s an inclusive treat that welcomes all to the festive table. Ready to make your holidays sweeter? Let’s dive into making this marvelous cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Is This Cake a Holiday Must-Have?

Irresistible flavor: The perfect blend of cinnamon and nutmeg delivers a warm holiday hug in every bite.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip this cake together even on the busiest of days.
Dairy-free option: Don’t let dietary restrictions stop the fun—this cake can easily accommodate everyone!
Crowd-pleaser: Its festive presentation and rich taste make it the star of any holiday gathering.
Perfect pairing: Serve it alongside a warm beverage, like hot spiced cider, for that cozy festive feeling.
This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream truly captures the essence of the season!

Christmas Spice Cake Ingredients

• Create your cake masterpiece with these essential ingredients.

For the Cake

Cake Flour – Provides a tender crumb; you can substitute with a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for similar results.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; stick with granulated for the best texture.
Baking Powder – Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t skip this important ingredient.
Nutmeg – Infuses warm, aromatic spice; best if freshly grated for maximum flavor.
Cinnamon – Adds depth and warmth; ground cinnamon works conveniently here.
Eggnog – Moisture and flavor base; can substitute with milk and cream for a dairy-free option.
Milk – Boosts moisture; any nut-milk can work for a dairy-free twist.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil serves as a great substitute.
Vanilla Bean Paste (or Extract) – Brings sweetness and warmth; if unavailable, use straight vanilla extract.
Rum Extract – Adds festive notes; adjust or omit based on your taste preference.
Eggs – Essential for structure; no substitutions unless opting for a vegan version.

For the Eggnog Buttercream

Butter – Key for a rich frosting; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream; essential for the right texture.
Nutmeg (for frosting) – Extra spice flavor; freshly grated nutmeg enhances the profile.
Salt (for frosting) – Balances the sweetness; don’t overlook its importance.

Make sure you gather these ingredients to craft your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream, and prepare to delight your loved ones with a taste of holiday magic!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While the oven is warming up, grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans to prevent any sticking. Make sure to tap out any excess flour to ensure a smooth bake and easy release from the pans once your Christmas spice cakes are done.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine cake flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, freshly grated nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these together until well mixed, ensuring no clumps remain. This step is crucial as it creates the foundation for the warm, festive flavor of your Christmas spice cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk, vegetable oil, rum extract, and eggs until fully blended. Set this mixture aside for a moment. Combining these wet ingredients will add moisture and richness to your Christmas spice cake, enhancing its flavor and texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter
Add the softened butter to the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a mixer, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and the butter is evenly distributed. This step ensures that every bite of your Christmas spice cake will be rich and buttery.

Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour one-third of the reserved wet mixture into the butter-flour blend and mix until just combined. Then, add the remaining wet mixture in two parts, mixing until everything is well incorporated but still slightly lumpy. This method prevents overmixing, keeping your cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and give the batter a brief stir to ensure even distribution. Carefully divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. This prepares your cake for an even rise during baking, ensuring both layers are perfect.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cake is done when the edges start to pull away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with delightful holiday aromas!

Step 8: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess and helps maintain the cake’s structure for the beautiful layering to come.

Step 9: Make the Eggnog Buttercream
While the cakes cool, prepare your eggnog buttercream. In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar, mixing until fully combined, then incorporate milk, vanilla extract, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg until the frosting achieves a creamy consistency.

Step 10: Frost the Cake
Once fully cooled, place one layer of the Christmas spice cake on a serving platter. Generously spread eggnog buttercream on top, then add the second layer and cover the entire cake with more frosting. Take care to create a smooth finish, making this wonderful cake an enticing centerpiece for your holiday celebrations.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance—just bake them, let them cool completely, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. For the eggnog buttercream, you can make it up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply allow the cake and buttercream to come to room temperature for about an hour, then frost and decorate as desired. This approach not only saves time but also ensures that your cake remains just as delicious and festive on the big day!

Christmas Spice Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this festive cake and adjust it to your tastes and needs!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake suitable for everyone. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of eggnog for a light, dairy-free option. The coconut flavor adds a delicious twist that complements the spices wonderfully.
Add Spice: Experiment with flavors by incorporating ginger or allspice into the batter. These spices can add an extra depth that warms the soul, making the cake even cozier.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Try a tangy cream cheese frosting instead of the eggnog buttercream for a delightful creaminess and a hint of sourness. This luscious frosting will create a beautiful balance with the spiced cake.
Chocolate Chip Infusion: Mix in chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in each slice. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the warm spices, creating a festive dessert that’s sure to impress.

For more festive finds, you might enjoy our rich Ice Cream Cake or the charming flavors of Strawberry Mango Cupcakes. Each recipe offers its own unique twist to sweeten your holiday gatherings.

Layered Flavors: Incorporate a layer of homemade cranberry sauce between the cake layers for a tart contrast that brightens the overall flavor profile. It’s a festive addition that showcases the beauty of the season.
Nuts for Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. The extra texture elevates the cake, providing a satisfying bite alongside the soft crumb.

With these variations, you can create your own signature take on this Christmas delight, letting your creativity shine!

Helpful Tricks for Christmas Spice Cake

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, which will ensure a fluffy texture in your eggnog buttercream.
Avoid Overmixing: Be cautious not to overmix your batter; this can lead to a dense Christmas spice cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and airy.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the cake’s doneness; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but no wet batter should cling to it.
Adjusting Frosting Consistency: If your eggnog buttercream is too thick, gradually add a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, mix in more confectioner’s sugar for the perfect spreadable texture.
Cooling Cakes Properly: Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This prevents sogginess and helps retain their shape.

Enjoy creating your delightful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream that will be the talk of your holiday gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the wrapped cake. It can last up to 5 days in the fridge, just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the completely cooled cake layers in plastic wrap, then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, slice and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Just enough to take the chill off, without compromising the texture of your delightful Christmas spice cake with eggnog buttercream!

What to Serve with Best Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

The magic of the holiday season comes alive when you pair this festive delight with accompaniments that enhance its warm flavors.

Spiced Cider: A warm glass of spiced cider brings cozy, aromatic notes that harmonize beautifully with the cake’s spices.
Chai Latte: This creamy, spiced beverage will echo the nutty undertones of the eggnog buttercream, creating a delightful contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool creaminess that perfectly balances the warmth of the cake, making every bite even more indulgent.
Candied Ginger: Add a touch of zest with candied ginger; its spiciness enhances the cake’s holiday flavors while offering a satisfying chew.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice elevates the treat, introducing a rich sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.
Pecan Topping: A sprinkle of crunchy roasted pecans on top adds texture and a nutty flavor that works wonders with the eggnog buttercream.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: For a festive twist, serve slices alongside peppermint hot chocolate to create a joyful festive experience.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing bite, cutting through the cake’s richness while adding a vibrant color to your holiday table.

Pairing these delightful accompaniments with your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream will create a warm and inviting celebration that your loved ones will cherish!

Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing nutmeg, opt for whole nutmeg and grate it fresh for the strongest flavor. For eggs, make sure they’re fresh with no cracks. The fresher the ingredients, the better your cake will turn out!

How should I store leftover cake?
You can store leftover Christmas spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, place it in the fridge wrapped tightly—it will stay fresh for about 5 days. This way, you can enjoy your holiday treat a little longer!

Can I freeze this cake? How?
The more the merrier! To freeze your Christmas spice cake, first, let the cake layers cool completely. Then, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to keep out moisture. It can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. For an extra touch, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

What if my cake turns out dense?
Very important! If your cake comes out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined, and be sure to measure your flour correctly—scooping directly from the bag can lead to too much flour, making the cake heavy. If you find it dense, consider adding a little extra baking powder next time to help it rise more.

Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Yes, if you or your guests have dietary restrictions, this Christmas spice cake can easily be made dairy-free! Simply substitute the butter in the frosting with coconut oil, and use nut milk in place of regular milk. Additionally, if you have guests with nut allergies, stick to regular milk instead of nut-based alternatives to ensure everyone can enjoy this festive treat.

Can pets enjoy this cake? Is it safe for them?
No, it’s best to keep this delicious Christmas spice cake away from pets. Ingredients like sugar and butter can upset their stomachs, and nutmeg is toxic to dogs in larger quantities. It’s always safer to stick with dog-friendly treats for your furry friends!