Spice Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

This Spice Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is like a cozy hug on a plate. Picture this: a moist, warmly spiced cake that brings the comforting flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg with every bite. Then, imagine the luscious, creamy frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness with a hint of saltiness. It’s a match made in dessert heaven. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this cake will have everyone raving.

As we get ready to bring this dessert to life, you’ll find that the process is as enjoyable as the final product. Each step combines elements of fun, creativity, and, of course, a whole lot of flavor. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on creating this scrumptious Spice Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why This Recipe Works

This spice cake captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices while the salted caramel buttercream frosting provides a sophisticated twist. The balance of flavors creates an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Warm spices evoke memories of fall gatherings, while the creamy frosting takes it into the realm of something truly special. It’s all about how these elements come together to make a dessert that comforts, excites, and satisfies.

Why You’ll Love This Spice Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting

You’ll love how this recipe strikes a perfect harmony of sweet and savory. The richness of the cake combined with the unique flavor profile of the frosting appeals not only to your taste buds but also to your heart. With every slice, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors and textures that ensure everyone will be reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

• 2 ⅔ cups (333 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon (3 grams) fine sea salt
• 12 tablespoons (168 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (220 grams) dark brown sugar
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (55 grams) vegetable oil
• 5 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (244 grams) whole milk
• 1 ½ cups (341 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
• 1 tablespoon (13 grams) vanilla extract
• 6 cups (720 grams) confectioners’ sugar
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) whole milk (for frosting)
• ½ cup (148 grams) salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Make the Cake Batter

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, prepare two 9-inch round baking pans. Spray them with cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, spices, and fine sea salt. Set this aside for later; it’s crucial for that perfect spice flavor. Now, in a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and the sugars at medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

After that, blend in the vegetable oil until it’s fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until they’re frothy. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with the egg mixture. Mix gently until it’s just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Bake the Cake

It’s time to pour the batter! Evenly divide it between the prepared baking pans. Bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tops spring back slightly when pressed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This waiting period builds anticipation for the deliciousness to come.

Make the Frosting

Now let’s focus on the frosting! In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature unsalted butter on medium-high speed until it’s smooth. Add the vanilla extract and blend it in fully.

Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time. Mix until slightly dry, then pour in the whole milk. Beat on high speed until the frosting turns light and airy. To finish it off, blend in the salted caramel sauce until everything is well combined. Your frosting is ready to make your cake shine!

Frost the Cake

It’s assembly time! Start by placing one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of your salted caramel buttercream frosting on top of this first layer. Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly. You want to make it look gorgeous and inviting!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, slices of this delectable spice cake are perfect for gatherings, alongside coffee or tea, or as a delightful dessert for special occasions. For an added touch, drizzle some extra salted caramel on top to impress your guests!

Tips for Success

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps with better mixing and emulsion.
• Carefully measure the spices—this ensures a flavorful kick in every bite.
• Opt for high-quality salted caramel sauce; it can make a real difference in the taste.

Variations

If you want to switch things up a bit, consider substituting applesauce for half of the butter for a lighter cake option. Adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch. You might also experiment with spices like allspice or cardamom to create unique flavor profiles that entice your taste buds.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Store any remaining cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for a week or freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well.

Pairing Ideas

To enhance your dessert experience, complement this spice cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with spiced chai or apple cider, making it a cozy dessert option to enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary.

2. How can I make the salted caramel buttercream thicker?
Simply add additional confectioners’ sugar to the frosting until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Can I use cream cheese instead of butter for the frosting?
Yes, for a tangy twist, swap some or all of the butter for cream cheese in the frosting.

4. What type of caramel sauce should I use?
You can use store-bought salted caramel or make your own for a personal touch.

5. How can I add more moisture to the cake?
Incorporate an additional egg or a few tablespoons of yogurt to enhance moisture content.

This Spice Cake with Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its beautiful blend of flavors creates an unforgettable experience, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it and savor every delightful bite!

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