Spice Cake
Spice cake is a timeless delight that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds. With its rich blend of spices, this cake is perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge. Whether served plain or with a dollop of cream, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy the wonderful flavors of spice cake!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 40-45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) of spice cake contains approximately 280 calories, 12g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices together.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and oil until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, you can use applesauce instead of oil to reduce fat content. For a dairy-free version, almond milk can replace buttermilk.
Serving and Pairings
Spice cake pairs wonderfully with cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. It can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover spice cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake.
- Skipping the greasing of the pan may cause sticking.
- Opening the oven door too early can collapse the cake.
- Underbaking will result in a gooey center.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- For added moisture, incorporate grated carrots or apples.
- Experiment with different nuts for added texture.
FAQs
Can I make spice cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Spice cake can be baked a day in advance. Just store it properly to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can make homemade buttermilk by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How can I make my spice cake more moist?
Adding an extra egg or replacing some oil with applesauce can enhance moisture.
Is spice cake suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, by using flax eggs and plant-based milk, you can create a delicious vegan spice cake.
Can I add fruits or nuts to my spice cake?
Absolutely! Raisins, walnuts, or pecans can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Spice cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe ensures that you can create a delicious, spiced treat that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Spice Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices together.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and oil until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.