Spiced Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
I have always been enchanted by the warm, inviting aroma of spice cake wafting through a cozy kitchen. It takes me back to childhood memories of my grandmother’s house during the holidays, where sweet scents mingled with laughter and love. One particular afternoon, as I tasted her decadent spice cake topped with a flawless cream cheese frosting, I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. After experimenting with several variations, I finally perfected it: a Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting that not only captures those cherished memories but also brings a wave of nostalgia to every bite. It’s a cake that transcends ordinary desserts it’s a celebration of love, warmth, and family traditions.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What truly makes this Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting shine is its ability to evoke emotions and memories. The rich blend of spices cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a cozy flavor profile that warms the heart, while the brown butter frosting adds a luxurious touch that elevates the entire experience. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for gatherings and special occasions. Beyond its great taste, it’s a beloved family favorite that I cherish making and sharing with those I love, from birthdays to holiday celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (for best texture, sift before measuring)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1/2 tablespoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (for a richer taste, use full-fat)
For the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 to 4 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best blending and flavor development. Using fresh, high-quality spices and butter will result in an even more flavorful cake.
How to make Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for an easy release.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Set aside, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Buttermilk
Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in the buttermilk, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should be smooth but slightly lumpy.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the brown butter cream cheese frosting. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-8 minutes). Let it cool slightly.
Step 8: Mix the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the brown butter (including the brown bits), powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until you achieve a creamy frosting consistency.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice into this beautiful cake and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with friends and family!
Tips & Recipe Variations
- Storage: Store cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze the un-frosted cake layers, wrapped tightly in plastic, for up to 3 months.
- Brown Butter Precision: Watch closely while browning the butter; it can quickly go from perfect to burnt!
- Flavor Enhancers: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free butter alternative and substitute buttermilk with non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
How to Serve
This Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is perfect for any celebration or cozy gathering. Consider pairing it with a warm cup of spiced chai or a hot cocoa for a matching flavor profile. For added elegance, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. Presentation can be enhanced by garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg, giving guests that warm, inviting feel right before their first bite.
Common Questions
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Frost just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Absolutely! Wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- What can I use instead of buttermilk?
- You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of regular milk (or a dairy-free milk) with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
- How do I prevent the cake from becoming dry?
- Ensure you don’t over-bake the cake. Check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time, as ovens may vary.
- Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
- Yes! Opt for dairy-free alternatives for butter and cream cheese to make it suitable for a vegan or dairy-free diet.
This Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a creation filled with heart and warmth that brings people together. The aromas, the shared moments, and the comfort it offers make it a must-try. I encourage you to create your own memories with this delightful recipe and share your experiences. Whether enjoyed during a holiday gathering or a quiet afternoon, this cake is sure to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen.
“This cake brought back all the warm feelings of home! The spices are comforting, and the frosting is heavenly. I can’t wait to make it again!” – Sarah T.
Spice Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in the buttermilk.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the brown butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until creamy.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer and add the second layer, frosting the top and sides of the cake.
- Serve and enjoy with friends and family!
Notes
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