Name: Super Moist Spice Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup buttermilk; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

I’ve baked many spice cakes over the years, but this one? It’s the keeper. Every forkful of this Super Moist Spice Cake delivers a warm hug of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, wrapped in a tender crumb that stays soft for days. The rich, old-fashioned flavor is everything I crave when the weather cools down, and the luscious cream cheese frosting on top is truly the cherry on top—or should I say, the swirl of joy?

I created this recipe on a crisp autumn weekend, and ever since, it’s become a tradition in my kitchen. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or just a comforting dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this spice cake always gets rave reviews. It’s one of those recipes that feels nostalgic and indulgent, but also wonderfully simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Super Moist Spice Cake

The texture is unbelievably soft thanks to a mix of brown sugar and oil, while the spices create that deep, cozy flavor we all love in fall desserts. It’s a one-bowl batter that doesn’t require any special equipment, which makes cleanup a breeze. Best of all, this cake stays moist for days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

What Makes a Spice Cake So Irresistible?

Spice cake is a celebration of warm, aromatic spices that bring a depth of flavor you just don’t get in plain cakes. Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger come together to create a rich, cozy taste that pairs beautifully with creamy frostings. What sets this version apart is the incredibly moist crumb and balanced sweetness that keeps you coming back for another slice.

Options for Substitutions

Oil: You can swap vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.
Buttermilk: No buttermilk? Use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Spices: Don’t have cloves or ginger? Pumpkin pie spice works well as a one-for-all substitute.
Frosting: Cream cheese frosting is classic, but you can also use a brown butter glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar for a simpler finish.

Ingredients for this Super Moist Spice Cake

All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cake its structure while still keeping it tender.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Granulated Sugar: Balances the brown sugar with a cleaner sweetness.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and soft.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
Buttermilk: The acidity activates the baking soda for a tender crumb.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and stay fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, and Ginger: The heart of the spice flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and enhances the spices.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients: Cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt for the perfect tangy-sweet topping.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper if you want an easy lift after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the ground spices. Set this bowl aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Buttermilk and Dry Mix

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two batches, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir just until everything is combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then beat in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly on top. Sprinkle with a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg for a finishing touch. Slice and enjoy!

How Long to Prepare the Super Moist Spice Cake

Prep Time: It takes about 20 minutes to prepare the batter. That includes measuring out your ingredients, mixing the wet and dry components, and prepping the pan. If you’re making homemade cream cheese frosting, add an extra 10 minutes to whip that up while the cake bakes.

Bake Time & Cooling: The cake bakes for about 30–35 minutes. Let it cool for at least 45 minutes before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese topping. So in total, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours from start to ready-to-serve.

Tips for Perfect Super Moist Spice Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and buttermilk come to room temp for smoother mixing and even baking.
Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined to keep the cake tender.
Use Fresh Spices: Old ground spices lose potency over time—freshly opened jars make a difference.
Even Layering: Spread the batter evenly in the pan to avoid uneven baking.
Cool Before Frosting: Make sure the cake is fully cooled before frosting to prevent a melty mess.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overbaking: Check at 30 minutes. Overbaking will dry it out and kill that “super moist” magic.
Using Cold Cream Cheese: For lump-free frosting, the cream cheese and butter must be fully softened.
Skipping Buttermilk: Substituting with regular milk without acid (like lemon/vinegar) can result in a dense texture.
Too Much Flour: Spoon and level your flour to avoid a heavy, dry cake.
Rushing the Cooling Process: Warm cake and frosting do not mix. Let it cool completely.

What to Serve With Super Moist Spice Cake?

1. Hot Apple Cider

The spices in the cake pair beautifully with a warm mug of cider.

2. Fresh Whipped Cream

A dollop on top adds a light, airy contrast to the rich frosting.

3. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Cool, creamy, and perfect alongside a warm slice of cake.

4. Toasted Pecans or Walnuts

Sprinkle on top for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

5. Chai Tea or Coffee

A warm spiced drink complements the cake’s flavors perfectly.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If unfrosted, store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Once frosted with cream cheese, it should be refrigerated.

Refrigerator: Keep the frosted cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let slices come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: This cake freezes well! Wrap unfrosted or frosted slices individually and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temp.

Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 12 servings)

Calories: 420
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugar: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 290mg
Cholesterol: 55mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Refrigerate any frosted cake in an airtight container and enjoy within 5 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The flavor actually improves after a day. Just store it in the fridge and frost it closer to serving time.

Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?

Absolutely. Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes.

How can I make this cake dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk with lemon juice instead of buttermilk and vegan butter/cream cheese for the frosting.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch pan is perfect, but you can also divide the batter between two 8-inch round pans for a layered version.

Conclusion

This Super Moist Spice Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and celebration baked into every bite. With its rich spices, tender crumb, and creamy frosting, it’s a standout choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive holiday spreads. Easy to make, easy to love, and even easier to devour—this is the spice cake you’ll keep baking all year round.