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
Scale
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.
