Name: Delightful Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Substitution: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 1 teaspoon Baking soda; 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon Ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 3/4 cup Granulated sugar; 3/4 cup Brown sugar; 3 large Large eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 cup Buttermilk; 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (Softened); 4 cups Powdered sugar; 1/4 cup Eggnog; 2 tablespoons Cream; Nutmeg or cinnamon (for garnish) (Optional dusting for a festive finish.)

As the scent of warm spices fills the air, I can’t help but feel the holiday spirit wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is a true celebration of festive flavors, blending the comforting notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with the rich creaminess of eggnog in the frosting. What I adore about this recipe is its effortless appeal; it’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delightful quick bake that can easily be prepared ahead of time. Imagine serving this as the grand finale to your holiday gathering or as a sweet surprise for loved ones—it’s the kind of dessert that sparks joy and warmth. So, are you ready to create a festive masterpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds?

Why is This Cake a Festive Favorite?

Irresistible flavors: The Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is a celebration of warming spices that evoke holiday nostalgia. Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up even on a busy holiday schedule. Make-ahead magic: Bake in advance and simply frost before serving, making your holiday prep a breeze. Perfect for gatherings: This cake is bound to be a hit at any holiday party, served alongside a warm drink or as a captivating centerpiece. Versatile touches: Feel free to customize it with nuts or dried fruits for an extra treat, or serve it simply dusted with powdered sugar for a lighter elegance.

Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Ingredients

Get ready to bake the most delightful holiday dessert!

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cake. Substitution: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking powder – Essential for helping the cake rise to perfection.
Baking soda – Works with the spices and acid, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Ground cinnamon – Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic flavor.
Ground ginger – Adds a zesty kick that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ground nutmeg – Lends a sweet, nutty essence that rounds out the spices.
Salt – Balances and enhances the sweetness of the cake.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the cake’s texture.
Brown sugar – Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Large eggs – Bind the ingredients together, adding rich moisture.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Buttermilk – Ensures tenderness and a slight tang to the cake.
Unsalted butter – Provides a rich, moist texture that everyone loves.

For the Eggnog Buttercream

Powdered sugar – Sweetens the buttercream and gives it a light texture.
Eggnog – Infuses the frosting with delightful holiday flavor.
Cream – Adds an irresistible creaminess to the buttercream.
Nutmeg or cinnamon (for garnish) – Optional dusting for a festive finish.

This Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream will be the star of your holiday dessert table!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them lightly and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. This ensures that your lovely Christmas Spice Cake comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and your warming spices: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Keep whisking until the mixture is well combined, and set it aside to create the moist base of your cake.

Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In another bowl, beat together ¾ cup of granulated sugar and ¾ cup of brown sugar with ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. This step is key to achieving the perfect texture for your Christmas Spice Cake, so be sure to notice the fluffiness before adding the next ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas that hint at the festive treat to come.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Mix just until combined to prevent overmixing, which can make the cake dense. The batter should be thick yet pourable, with the rich scents of spices enveloping you like a warm hug, signaling that it’s almost time to bake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should rise beautifully and develop a golden-brown color, filling your home with the comforting fragrance of the holiday spices.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer the cakes to wire racks to cool completely. Ensure they cool thoroughly; this prevents the eggnog buttercream frosting from melting off, ensuring a lovely presentation for your Christmas Spice Cake.

Step 8: Prepare the Eggnog Buttercream
While your cakes cool, prepare the eggnog buttercream. In a bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of eggnog, and 2 tablespoons of cream. Mix until the buttercream is light and fluffy, showcasing a smooth and luscious texture that reflects the joy of the season.

Step 9: Frost the Cake Layers
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and generously frost the top with the eggnog buttercream. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake for an impressive finish. The creamy frosting beautifully complements the spiced cake layers, making each bite irresistible!

Step 10: Garnish and Serve
For an extra festive touch, dust the top of your beautifully frosted Christmas Spice Cake with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or cinnamon. Slice and serve this delightful holiday treat alongside coffee or hot cocoa, and watch your loved ones savor every moment. The warm spices and creamy buttercream are sure to be a festive favorite!

Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Variations

Feel free to personalize this festive recipe to match your taste and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy twist that complements the spices beautifully.
Fruity Addition: Add 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to the cake batter for a lovely burst of sweetness and texture.
Lighter Option: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar instead of frosting for a lighter take on this cozy dessert.
Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a deliciously creamy, dairy-free frosting.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the cake batter for a surprising, spicy note that plays perfectly with the sweet frosting.
Eggnog Twist: For the buttercream, opt for spiced rum-flavored eggnog to elevate the festive vibe and introduce a new layer of flavor.
Cocoa Variation: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the frost to create a delightful chocolate eggnog buttercream, appealing to chocolate lovers!

No matter which variation you try, your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is bound to be a star on your holiday dessert table! And for more delightful holiday inspirations, consider trying our Nutty Vanilla Cake or our inviting Savory Zucchini Pancakes. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spice Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.

Fridge: If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Wrap it tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze the cake layers individually (wrapped in plastic wrap and foil) for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before frosting.

Reheating: For a warm treat, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream at its best!

What to Serve with Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

Imagine the joy of pairing this festive delight with accompaniments that elevate your holiday dessert experience.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: This rich drink enhances the warmth of the spices, making each sip a cozy celebration. Perfect for chilly winter nights, it’s a classic pairing that brings smiles to everyone.
Spiced Apple Cider: A fragrant blend of apple cider infused with cinnamon and cloves adds a refreshing twist that complements the cake’s spices beautifully. This drink is not just delicious; it’ll warmth your heart and remind you of family gatherings.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light touch, enhancing the cake’s richness. It gives contrast to the dense spices of the cake, creating an ideal balance of flavors.
Glazed Nuts: Roasted and lightly sweetened nuts can bring an exciting crunch, adding texture that contrasts the soft cake. Their buttery finish harmonizes perfectly with the creamy frosting.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts against the warm cake, creating a delightful mix of temperatures and flavors. Who doesn’t love the classic cake-and-ice-cream pairing?
Coffee or Espresso: A freshly brewed cup of coffee or rich espresso provides the necessary caffeine kick to awaken your senses. The bitter notes cut through the sweetness, enhancing each bite of the festive cake.
Fruit Salad: A bright and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of natural sweetness and acidity, balancing the cake’s richness. Opt for seasonal fruits for a holiday-inspired twist.
Nutmeg-Infused Eggnog: For the ultimate pairing, serve the cake with a glass of delicious eggnog infused with nutmeg that echoes the flavors found in the buttercream. This is a holiday classic that can’t be missed!

Make Ahead Options

These festive Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The eggnog buttercream can also be made up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, let the cake layers come to room temperature and then frost with the buttercream. This method not only saves you time but ensures your cake stays moist and delicious, allowing the flavors to mingle for an even richer taste!

Expert Tips for the Best Christmas Spice Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that all ingredients are at room temperature encourages better emulsification in your Christmas Spice Cake, resulting in a lighter texture.
Don’t Overmix: To keep the cake tender, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make it dense and chewy—no one wants that for a festive favorite!
Cool Completely: Allow the cake layers to cool completely on wire racks. If not, the eggnog buttercream may melt and slide off, ruining your beautiful creation.
Add Texture: Consider folding in finely chopped nuts or dried fruits for additional flavor and a delightful texture in your Christmas Spice Cake.
Frosting Precision: For a smooth finish, apply a thin layer of eggnog buttercream first (a crumb coat) before the final layer. This prevents crumbs from appearing in your beautiful frosting.

Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the cake?
I recommend using all-purpose flour as it provides the perfect structure for your Christmas Spice Cake. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that it’s a 1:1 substitute to ensure the right texture!

How should I store the cake once it’s baked?
To keep your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream fresh, store it in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge where it will stay good for about a week.

Can I freeze the cake for later use?
Absolutely! If you’d like to freeze your Christmas Spice Cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before icing it with the eggnog buttercream.

What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If you find your cake has turned out too dry, don’t worry! One trick is to brush the cooled cake layers with a simple syrup (made of equal parts water and sugar boiled together until the sugar dissolves). This will add moisture back. Also, make sure not to overbake the cake, as that can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on it in the oven—26-28 minutes is often just right.

Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
This Christmas Spice Cake is generally safe for vegetarians, but it does contain eggs, dairy, and gluten. For those with egg allergies, you can substitute flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to help bind the ingredients. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk in place of buttermilk and vegan butter in the frosting. Always check labels if you have severe allergies!

How long can the buttercream be stored?
You can make the eggnog buttercream in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it again, as it may thicken upon cooling. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and whip it back into shape before frosting your cake!