Super Moist Spice Cake

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This Super Moist Spice Cake is the ultimate cozy treat to welcome the fall season or enjoy any time of year. With its warm medley of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, each bite is like a nostalgic hug from your favorite childhood memory. The cake has a soft, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth—and just when you think it can’t get better, it’s topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a weekend baking therapy session, this spice cake brings comfort and joy in every slice. Whether you serve it with a steaming mug of coffee or a glass of cold milk, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that always disappears fast.

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What Kind of Spices Make This Cake So Irresistible?

The magic of this cake lies in its bold blend of warm spices. Ground cinnamon is the dominant note, offering sweetness and heat. Nutmeg brings a subtle nutty warmth, while ground cloves add depth and intensity. Ginger rounds it out with a gentle zing. These classic baking spices combine beautifully to give the cake its signature flavor profile.

You can tweak the amounts slightly to suit your taste—more cinnamon for a mellow spice or a touch more clove if you love deep, earthy flavors.

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Ingredients for the Super Moist Spice Cake

All-Purpose Flour – This is the structural base of the cake, giving it body without making it too dense.

Brown Sugar – Adds deep molasses sweetness and helps retain moisture for a soft, rich crumb.

Granulated Sugar – Balances the brown sugar and adds structure and sweetness.

Eggs – Provide stability and help the cake rise beautifully while adding richness.

Vegetable Oil – This is key to the cake’s moist texture. Unlike butter, oil ensures the cake stays soft even after refrigeration.

Applesauce – Adds natural moisture and a hint of fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the spice blend.

Buttermilk – Helps activate the baking soda and contributes to a tender crumb.

Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These leavening agents give the cake a nice lift.

Salt – Enhances and balances the sweet and spicy flavors.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger – The heart of the cake’s flavor. Adjust to your preference.

Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and ties all the other flavors together.

Cream Cheese Frosting (with a hint of cinnamon) – Rich, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the sweet spiced cake.

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How To Make the Super Moist Spice Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when the batter is.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all the ground spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger). This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add the vegetable oil, applesauce, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to a dense cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon. Continue beating until light and fluffy. Spread generously over the cooled cake.

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How to Serve and Store This Super Moist Spice Cake

Serve this cake slightly chilled or at room temperature with a thick layer of cinnamon cream cheese frosting. A light sprinkle of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top adds a nice visual and flavor touch. It pairs beautifully with hot coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider.

To store, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake stays moist thanks to the oil and applesauce, even when chilled. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and sealed in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of applesauce?

You can substitute mashed bananas or Greek yogurt in equal amounts, though it may slightly change the flavor.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. Try a 50/50 split to keep it balanced.

Is this cake good for layering?

This spice cake is very moist, so if layering, chill the layers before assembling and use dowels if stacking more than two layers.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Absolutely! Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Do I have to refrigerate the cake because of the cream cheese frosting?

Yes. Cream cheese frosting should always be refrigerated for safety and freshness.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce each sugar type by about 1/4 cup, but it may slightly alter the texture and moisture.

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Want More Cake Ideas That Bring Cozy Flavors?

If this Super Moist Spice Cake is your kind of dessert, you’ll definitely want to check out these other irresistible bakes from Life with Nina:

• Cinna Bun Cake – All the gooey cinnamon roll flavor in easy-to-slice cake form.
• Triple Chocolate Banana Bread – A rich, fudgy loaf that doubles as dessert.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes – Fruity and creamy with a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Lemon Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies – For a bright citrusy twist that’s ready in minutes.
• Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake – A layered dream packed with fall-inspired flavors.

These cakes and treats have the same cozy, homemade feel as our spice cake—and might just become your new favorites.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Follow me on Pinterest – Life with Nina

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cinnamon? Swap in banana for applesauce? I love seeing how you make it your own!

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake better, one cozy cake at a time.

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