Delicious Moist Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Moist Spice Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of spices with a moist, tender crumb. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. With a velvety brown butter cream cheese frosting on top, this cake not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible. The mix of aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates a comforting flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Moist Spice Cake

This delicious cake offers a myriad of benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly moist, thanks to ingredients like unsweetened applesauce and vegetable oil. Second, it’s versatile—perfect for birthdays, holidays, or even a simple afternoon treat. Third, the spiced moist cake recipe is easy to follow, making it ideal for bakers of all levels. Additionally, it can be customized with unique variations, such as adding shredded zucchini or carrots. This cake not only satisfies cravings but also showcases your baking skills, making it one of the best moist spice cakes around!

Ingredients for Moist Spice Cake

Gather these items:

2 and 3/4 cups (341g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
2 teaspoons baking powder (for leavening)
1 teaspoon baking soda (helps the cake rise)
1/2 teaspoon salt (balances sweetness)
1 and 2/3 teaspoons ground cinnamon (warm spice flavor)
1 teaspoon ground ginger (adds zest)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (spicy, earthy warmth)
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (for a hint of sweetness)
1 and 1/8 cups (270ml) vegetable oil (moisture and tenderness)
1 packed light or dark brown sugar (adds rich sweetness)
1 and 1/8 cups (270ml) unsweetened applesauce (provides moisture and flavor)
5 large eggs (binds ingredients and adds richness)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (enhances flavor)
1 and 1/4 cups (185g) shredded apple (or shredded zucchini or carrot for variation)
1 tablespoon unsulphured or dark molasses (adds deep sweetness)
Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting:
1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter (cut into slices)
8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened (smooth texture for frosting)
2 and 3/4 cups (330g) powdered sugar (sweetens the frosting)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (adds flavor depth)
Pinch of salt (enhances sweetness)
Optional for garnish: light sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg (adds a cozy touch)

How to Make Moist Spice Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
Step 3: In another bowl, combine the oil, brown sugar, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and molasses (if using). Whisk together until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until fully incorporated. Some small lumps are acceptable. Gently fold in the shredded apple.
Step 5: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 42–45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil after 25 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the cake from the oven and set it on a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 7: For the frosting, brown the butter: Place the sliced butter into a light-colored skillet and melt over medium heat. Stir continuously until it begins to foam. Keep stirring until it turns golden brown with nutty aromas, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, immediately transfer to a bowl and allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Then refrigerate until solidified.
Step 8: Beat the solidified brown butter with a mixer on high speed until creamy. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat on high speed for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
Step 9: Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake. If desired, sprinkle lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting.

Pro Tips for the Best Moist Spice Cake

Keep these in mind:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
This cake can be made ahead of time and freezes well.
To enhance moisture, consider adding a bit more applesauce or a splash of milk to the batter.
For an extra flavor boost, include finely chopped nuts or raisins in the batter.

Best Ways to Serve Moist Spice Cake

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further. Try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a comforting dessert. Alternatively, serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

How to Store and Reheat Moist Spice Cake

To keep your cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moist Spice Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Moist Spice Cake?

The secret to a perfect moist spice cake lies in using quality ingredients and ensuring you do not overmix the batter. Incorporating ingredients like applesauce adds moisture without compromising the cake’s structure.

Can I make Moist Spice Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake this cake a day in advance. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain its moisture, and frost it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Moist Spice Cake?

Common mistakes include overbaking, which can dry out the cake, and not measuring ingredients accurately. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid dryness.

Variations of Moist Spice Cake You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few unique spice cake variations to try:

Substitute shredded zucchini for the apple for a moist twist.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or allspice, to create your unique flavor profile.
For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Delicious Moist Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting - Moist Spice Cake - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Banana Split Fruit Pizza, Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins, Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake, Creamy Green Bean and Potato Soup, and Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars.

For more information on the health benefits of spices, you can visit Healthline.