Imagine a slice of warm, aromatic cake that instantly transports you back to childhood memories, filled with the comforting embrace of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pure love. This isn't just any spice cake—this is "Dad's Favorite Spice Cake," a time-honored recipe that has been delighting families for generations. With its perfectly balanced blend of warm spices and tender crumb, this cake promises to become your new go-to dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
- In a large stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter until smooth and light, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the butter, beating on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure complete incorporation.
- Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or frost with cream cheese frosting before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to maintain a tender, light texture.
- Spice Freshness: Use fresh, high-quality ground spices for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Pan Preparation: Properly greasing and flouring the pan prevents sticking and ensures easy cake removal.
- Toothpick Test: Always check doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling Technique: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent breaking.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider cream cheese frosting or a light dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 125mg
