Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you know that a comforting, warmly spiced cake can instantly lift your spirits. That’s why I’m so thrilled to share this Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe—it’s one of my all-time favorites when I want something that feels a little special but isn’t complicated at all. The cake itself is moist, packed with cozy spices, and the frosting? Oh, the frosting is pure magic—a luscious brown butter cream cheese swirl that’s silky and rich without being overly sweet. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become your go-to for gatherings or just a sweet slice with your afternoon coffee.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The balance of spices in this Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe is key to that warm, inviting flavor. I love using fresh ground spices when I can—but bottled spices work perfectly too. Also, choosing a good-quality cream cheese and real unsalted butter makes a noticeable difference in the frosting texture and taste.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s sturdy yet tender structure—make sure to measure it properly by spooning and leveling for best results.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the spice flavors.
• Cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, cloves: The star spices here—freshly ground if you can, for the best aroma and punch.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses undertone that complements the spices.
• Vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist without dominating the flavor.
• Unsweetened apple sauce: A secret weapon for moistness and a tender crumb without extra fat.
• Eggs (room temperature): Essential for structure and richness; they mix better when not cold.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all flavors and adds a warm sweetness.
• Sour cream (room temperature): Adds tang and tender crumb, keeping the cake from drying out.
• Unsalted butter: For browning and richness, especially in the frosting—you’ll want to melt and brown it carefully.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Creates that irresistible silky frosting base.
• Powdered sugar: For sweetness and smooth texture in the frosting.
• Cinnamon sticks and candied nuts: Gorgeous garnish options that bring an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Variations

I love to keep this Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe versatile depending on the occasion or season. Feel free to tweak it according to your tastes or dietary needs—it’s surprisingly forgiving and still delicious!

• Gluten-Free Version: I once swapped the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend, and it turned out great—just be sure to check the spice balance as some blends can absorb moisture differently.
• Vegan Adaptation: You can replace eggs with flax eggs and skip the dairy by using vegan cream cheese and butter alternatives. It won’t be quite the same richness, but the spices still shine beautifully.
• Nutty Addition: My family goes crazy when I fold chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter—adds a great crunch and depth.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap cardamom with pumpkin pie spice for a fall-inspired cake that pairs perfectly with a hot drink.

How to Make Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Brown Your Butter

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully as it foams and then turns a beautiful golden-brown color with a nutty aroma—this is where all the magic begins for that frosting. Once browned, remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to cool slightly. Patience here is key — too hot and it’ll melt your cream cheese later, so let it rest until just warm.

Step 2: Prep the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. In a separate bowl, beat the brown sugar with the vegetable oil until smooth. Then add in the applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Stir in the sour cream on low speed to retain the batter’s lightness.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding carefully to avoid overmixing—this helps keep the cake tender. Pour the batter into two greased 8-inch round pans or one larger pan if preferred. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. I like to start checking at 35 minutes to make sure it doesn’t over-bake, which can dry it out.

Step 4: Make the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting

Once your browned butter has cooled slightly, cream it together with softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for that extra touch of warmth. If it feels too thin, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to set before frosting the cake.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

After the cakes have fully cooled, spread a thick layer of frosting on top of one layer, then place the second layer on top. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides evenly. To finish, I like to garnish with candied nuts and a few cinnamon sticks for a rustic, festive feel. It’s a simple but stunning presentation that always wows guests.

How to Serve Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this cake with candied pecans or walnuts for some crunch alongside the velvety frosting. Cinnamon sticks aren’t just pretty—they add a lovely aroma when placed on the cake right before serving. Sometimes, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar adds that final cozy touch.

Side Dishes

Serving this cake with a cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee complements its warming spices beautifully. If you’re making it for brunch, pair it with a light fruit salad or even whipped cream to add freshness and balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special birthdays, I like stacking the cake layers with fresh pear slices tucked inside for a surprise element. Another fun idea is to pipe the frosting decoratively around the edges and scatter edible gold flakes or cranberries on top to make it extra festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always keep leftover spice cake covered tightly in the fridge—they stay moist and fresh for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring slices to room temperature before eating to get that soft, tender texture back.

Freezing

This cake freezes wonderfully! I freeze it either frosted or unfrosted wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving, and if needed, freshen the frosting with a quick whip to bring back its creaminess.

Reheating

For a cozy treat, I like to warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. It brings back that just-baked feel, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, I absolutely love how this Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting Recipe turns out every time—there’s something so comforting about those warm spices combined with that nutty, rich frosting. It’s like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Whether I’m baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just because the craving hits, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try; I’m confident you’ll enjoy it as much as I do and maybe even add your own special spin. Happy baking!

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