If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm aromas of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe is your perfect match. Bursting with tender raisins and a hint of walnuts, this cake balances spice and sweetness beautifully, while the luscious vanilla frosting brings everything together with creamy perfection. Whether it’s a special occasion or an everyday treat, this spiced raisin cake promises to be a beloved favorite that’s as delightful to share as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to create a cake that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the spices that build depth to the raisins that add natural sweetness and chewy bursts in every bite.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds this cake’s tender crumb together perfectly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become light.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk to give the cake a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Signature warmth that defines the spice profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A pungent spice adding complexity and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle nutty, sweet spice note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Completes the aromatic spice blend perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and moistness to the cake.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tenderness and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Provides structure and adds to the cake’s moist texture.
- 1 cup raisins, finely chopped: Bursting pockets of fruity sweetness in every slice.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor for texture contrast.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with rich vanilla aroma.
- 2 cups icing sugar: The base of the silky vanilla frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates the frosting’s creamy, spreadable texture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting with luscious vanilla flavor.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts frosting consistency to give it that perfect spreadability.
How to Make Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by whisking together all the dry ingredients: flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the cozy blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. This mix forms the spiced heart of your cake. Next, stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract just until the batter comes together—don’t overmix or the cake could turn tough. Gently fold in the chopped raisins and walnuts if you’re using them to ensure every bite is packed with bursts of flavor and texture.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely right in the pan to avoid any cracks—this ensures a beautiful finish once you frost it.
Step 3: Prepare the Vanilla Frosting
While the cake cools, whip together the softened butter and icing sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract for a luscious vanilla scent that perfectly complements the spices in the cake. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach that dreamy spreadable consistency that will coat the cake evenly.
Step 4: Assemble Your Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
Slice the cooled cake horizontally to create two layers. Spread a generous layer of frosting on the bottom half, then gently place the top half over it. Cover the entire cake, including the sides, with the remaining frosting. Run the back of a fork over the top to create charming, classic lines that add a little extra texture and a touch of handmade charm.
How to Serve Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkling of finely chopped walnuts on top adds an inviting finishing touch that makes the cake even more irresistible. Fresh mint leaves or small clusters of raisins can add a delightful pop of color and freshness, perfect for presentation.
Side Dishes
This spiced raisin cake pairs beautiful with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness with a bit of warmth and bitterness. For a more indulgent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to make each bite even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into petite squares and serve on charming dessert plates for a tea party or casual get-together. Alternatively, stacking miniature versions of this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe into cupcakes can impress guests and make serving a breeze. Wrap individual slices in parchment for a charming take-home gift or picnic treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay moist and delicious at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it perfect for enjoying over several days without losing freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this spiced raisin cake with vanilla frosting recipe after frosting it by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve the cake’s texture and flavor intact.
Reheating
If you like your cake slightly warm, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This lightly enhances the aroma and softens the frosting without melting it completely. Just remember to enjoy it fresh for the best spiced raisin and vanilla flavor combo!
FAQs
Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or dried cherries work wonderfully too. Each adds its own unique sweetness and texture, but raisins are classic for their juiciness and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and tenderness that’s hard to replicate, but if you don’t have it, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic buttermilk’s effect in the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, with some tweaks! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind that texture might be slightly different, but the spices and frosting will still shine.
How long does the vanilla frosting keep?
If stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the vanilla frosting will stay fresh for up to a week. It’s best to bring it to room temperature and stir gently before spreading or use.
Can I double this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and split the batter between two pans or bake it in a larger pan. Keep an eye on baking time as it might need a few extra minutes. Always use a toothpick test to check doneness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe; it’s like a warm hug on a plate. With its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy frosting, it’s sure to win hearts at your table. I truly hope you give this recipe a try—once you do, I bet it’ll become a treasured classic in your collection just as it is in mine.
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Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting is a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. The cake combines warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice with sweet raisins and optional walnuts for texture. Topped with a creamy vanilla frosting featuring a delicate fork-pattern decoration, this cake blends classic flavors with a beautiful presentation that will impress family and guests.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup raisins, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice until evenly combined. Then add the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until the ingredients are just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake. Fold in the finely chopped raisins and walnuts if using to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter into a greased and floured baking pan (typically 9-inch round). Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan to ensure it sets and is ready for frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, gradually beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency that is neither too thick nor too runny.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake has fully cooled, slice it horizontally to create two layers. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the bottom half, then place the top half over it. Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake for a smooth finish. Use the back of a fork to create straight, even lines across the top frosting to give the cake its signature look.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve the Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting as a delightful dessert or a special treat with coffee or tea.
Notes
- Ensure the cake cools completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Chopping the raisins ensures better distribution and avoids clumping in one area.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and contrast to the softness of the cake.
- For a richer flavor, soak the raisins in warm water or rum for 20 minutes before folding into the batter.
- If a dairy-free version is desired, substitute butter with margarine and buttermilk with a plant-based milk plus lemon juice.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
