Craving a slice of nostalgia wrapped in a delicate crumb and a creamy caramel embrace? Dive into the world of homemade spice cake with luscious caramel frosting. This classic treat embodies the perfect balance of warm fall spices and decadent sweetness.
Discover the secrets behind the high-ratio baking method that gives this easy spice cake recipe its light and moist texture. Paired with a cooked caramel frosting reminiscent of brown sugar fudge, this old-fashioned spice cake is a delightful throwback to comforting flavors.
Whether you’re a fan of the traditional cream cheese frosting or prefer the rich notes of caramel icing, this recipe offers a versatile twist on a beloved favorite. Get ready to savor each bite of this tender Caramel Spice Cake, a true embodiment of autumn’s cozy charm.
Ingredients
For this delightful Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting recipe, let’s gather the essential ingredients for both the cake and the frosting.
Spice Cake Ingredients
- 3 cups cake flour (sifted and then measured)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1.5 tsp cinnamon
- 0.75 tsp ground nutmeg
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 10 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 3 cups diced apples
- 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 3 eggs (room temperature)
- Brown sugar
- Milk
- Butter
- Vanilla
- Cream or milk for adjusting consistency
Equipment Needed
When preparing my delicious Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that I always make sure to have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dessert:
For the Cake:
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few mixing bowls to combine and whisk together the dry and wet ingredients for the cake batter.
- Electric Mixer: An electric mixer makes it easier to cream the butter and sugar, resulting in a smooth and fluffy cake batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, so having a set of measuring cups and spoons is essential.
- Cake Pans: Depending on whether you choose to make a layer cake or a sheet cake, have your cake pans ready for baking.
- Oven: Of course, you’ll need an oven to bake the cake to perfection.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is essential for cooking the caramel frosting on the stovetop.
- Whisk: A whisk will help you stir the ingredients together and ensure a smooth and creamy caramel frosting.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll also need additional mixing bowls for preparing the frosting.
- Spatula: Use a spatula to spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Refrigerator: After frosting the cake, you’ll need to refrigerate it to allow the frosting to set.
Having these pieces of equipment at your disposal will make the process of creating this Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Preparation
Before diving into creating this delightful Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting, it’s crucial to ensure all preparations are in place to guarantee a successful baking experience.
Preparing the Cake Pans
Start by greasing and flouring two 9-inch round pans or a 9×13-inch pan to prevent the cake from sticking, allowing for easy removal and serving later on.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the Spice Cake to perfection.
Spice Cake Instructions
The key to a perfectly spiced cake with delightful caramel frosting lies in the precise mixing and baking steps. Follow these detailed instructions to create a delectable homemade treat.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and a blend of warm fall spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
- Ensure thorough mixing to evenly distribute the spices throughout the flour mixture for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Gradually add in sour cream while whisking to achieve a creamy and smooth consistency.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition until fully incorporated.
- Combine the prepared dry ingredients with the wet mixture in small batches, alternating with milk, and mix gently until just combined.
- The high-ratio method of combining ingredients ensures a tender and moist crumb in the final cake.
- Divide the batter evenly into prepared cake pans lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting them with the luscious caramel frosting for a perfect finishing touch.
Caramel Frosting Instructions
Creating the perfect caramel frosting requires careful attention to detail during each step. Here’s how to achieve a decadent and luscious caramel frosting for your spice cake:
Cooking the Sugar Mixture
To start, combine sugar and water in a pot over heat, stirring until well combined. Once the sugar appears dissolved, let the mixture cook without stirring. Use a pastry brush dipped in water to brush away sugar crystals from the pot’s sides. As the sugar cooks, it will start to bubble and change color slowly. Be patient and keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once the sugar reaches the desired amber color, add room temperature heavy cream and whisk vigorously. Next, incorporate room temperature butter while whisking until fully melted into the caramel. Optionally add salt, then turn off the heat and pour the caramel into a jar or container to cool.
Mixing in Butter and Cream
For the next step in preparing the caramel frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream to create a smooth mixture. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir until the mixture is well combined. Return the saucepan to heat and bring the mixture to a boil for about a minute. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding confectioners’ sugar and vanilla. Beat the mixture until smooth, adjusting consistency with more cream if needed. Your rich and flavorful caramel frosting is now ready to elevate your spice cake to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Assembling the Cake
Now it’s time to bring all the elements together and assemble the Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting. Layering and frosting the cake is where we create a delightful marriage of flavors and textures.
Layering and Frosting
- Filling the Cake: Begin by placing the cake plate on a turntable. Add a dollop of frosting in the center of the plate and place the first cake layer on top. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on the cake layer, piping a border layer around the edges. Finish by adding caramel sauce on top.
- Creating the Crumb Coat: Place the second cake layer on top of the first. Add small dollops of frosting on the sides and top of the cake, smoothing it out with an offset spatula. Use a cake scraper to achieve a smooth crumb coat around the cake.
- Decorating Tips: Ensure your cake is cooled and your frosting is the right consistency to prevent sliding. For a firmer frosting, chill it before decorating. Keeping the layers flat and evenly frosted will result in a beautifully assembled cake.
Final Touches
Finish your Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting by adding any decorative elements like chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor. Ensure the cake is chilled before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Once assembled, it’s time to enjoy this decadent autumn treat bursting with warm spices and creamy caramel goodness.
Storage Tips
After indulging in the delightful Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting, proper storage ensures that every bite maintains its freshness and flavor for as long as possible. Here are some essential storage tips to keep your cake at its best:
Room Temperature Storage:
- Covering: Once the cake is cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Location: Store the cake in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain its texture and flavor.
- Duration: Enjoy the cake within 2-3 days if stored at room temperature to savor its optimal taste.
Refrigeration:
- Wrapping: If the cake has perishable frosting or cream cheese filling, refrigerate it. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating.
- Shelf Life: Refrigerated cakes can last up to 5-7 days, but ensure you consume them before the frosting loses its freshness.
- Reheating: Before serving, let the refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to bring back its full flavor and texture.
- Preparation: To freeze the cake for longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and absorption of other odors.
- Labeling: Don’t forget to label the wrapped cake with the date to keep track of its freshness.
- Thawing: Defrost the frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving to ensure the best taste and texture.
Following these storage tips will help you enjoy your Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting to the fullest, ensuring that each slice tastes just as scrumptious as the first bite.
Conclusion
Creating a Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting is a delightful way to embrace the flavors of fall in a cozy and indulgent dessert. The blend of warm spices and creamy caramel frosting offers a nostalgic treat that is perfect for autumn gatherings or a sweet moment of self-indulgence. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can easily master the art of baking this scrumptious cake and impress your guests with its rich flavors and tender crumb. Remember to take your time with the frosting, ensuring each layer is perfectly coated for a visually appealing finish. With proper storage techniques, you can savor the deliciousness of this cake for days to come, maintaining its freshness and flavor. Indulge in a slice of Spice Cake with Caramel Frosting and let its comforting taste warm your heart with every bite.