Discover the Joy of Baking Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and the aroma of spices is wafting through the kitchen – it must be Christmas time! And what better way to celebrate the season than with a decadent Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream? This moist, flavorful cake is the ultimate holiday indulgence, combining the warm, cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum with the creamy richness of eggnog buttercream. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this show-stopping dessert is sure to become a cherished tradition.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Christmas Spice Cake

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces and softened
• 1 cup eggnog
• 3 cups cake flour (King Arthur is my favorite)
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp rum flavoring
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (freshly ground for best flavor)
• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk

Ingredients for the Eggnog Buttercream

• 4 tbsp milk
• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp rum flavoring (McCormick’s is a good choice)
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 6 cups powdered sugar, sifted for a smooth buttercream
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions for the Christmas Spice Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the oil, eggnog, rum flavoring, and vanilla bean paste.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5. Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.

Instructions for the Eggnog Buttercream

1. Make Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy. Mix in the salt, rum flavoring, vanilla bean paste, and nutmeg.

2. Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of buttercream on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining buttercream.

3. Serve: Decorate the cake as desired and enjoy this festive, flavorful treat!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Gingerbread Cake with Maple Frosting
• Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

FAQs: Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream

What spices are typically used in a Christmas Spice Cake?

The most common spices used in a Christmas Spice Cake are cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes cloves or allspice. These warm, aromatic spices perfectly complement the holiday flavors and create a cozy, festive vibe.

Can I make the eggnog buttercream ahead of time?

Absolutely! The eggnog buttercream can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble the cake, simply let the buttercream come to room temperature and give it a quick whisk to restore its fluffy texture.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, with a few simple substitutions, you can easily make this cake dairy-free or vegan. For the cake, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter or oil in place of the eggnog and regular butter. For the buttercream, swap the butter for a high-quality vegan butter or shortening, and use a dairy-free milk alternative. The flavors will still be delicious, and your guests won’t be able to tell the difference!

How should I store the cake to keep it fresh?

To keep your Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have any leftover buttercream, you can store it separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, and then re-whip it before using. For longer storage, you can also freeze the cake, either whole or in slices, for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Baking a Christmas Spice Cake with Eggnog Buttercream is the perfect way to fill your home with the warm, inviting aromas of the holiday season. This decadent cake is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished tradition in your family. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this indulgent dessert is a must-try. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a truly merry and bright Christmas masterpiece!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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