Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe

There is something truly magical about baking a Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and your heart with joy. This delightful cake combines the comforting spices of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice with sweet bursts of finely chopped raisins, all hugged by a tender crumb. The crowning glory is the creamy, dreamy vanilla frosting that balances sweetness and spice perfectly, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it yourself, this cake promises comfort, flavor, and memories in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the spices that add warmth and depth to the raisins that bring a chewy sweetness, and the vanilla frosting that ties everything together with creamy richness. Let’s look at what you’ll need to bring this flavor-packed cake to life.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a light and tender cake texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a rich, caramel-like undertone that enhances the spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to add lift and tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice, offering warmth and sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a bold, slightly peppery depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle nutty spice that complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: Provides complexity with flavors reminiscent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves combined.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Enriches the cake and ensures tenderness.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Brings moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a rich texture.
• 1 cup raisins, finely chopped: Adds bursts of natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with fragrant sweetness.
• 2 cups icing sugar: The base for a smooth and sweet frosting.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a creamy texture for the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds rich vanilla flavor to the frosting.
• 3-4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.

How to Make Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal. This prep ensures your cake layers will bake evenly and come out cleanly from the pans.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly is key to creating that perfectly spiced flavor spread evenly throughout every bite.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Now, pour in the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gently mix just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix, or your cake might become dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 4: Fold in Raisins and Walnuts

Gently fold in the finely chopped raisins and walnuts if you’re adding them. This step adds delightful texture and natural sweetness that makes this cake so special.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let the cakes rest in their pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool fully. Cooling completely before frosting is essential to prevent melting and to keep that frosting looking smooth and beautiful.

Step 7: Prepare the Vanilla Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, beating well between additions. Then add 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk one at a time, until your frosting reaches a luscious, spreadable consistency. This frosting is creamy, sweet, and the perfect partner to your spiced cake.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of vanilla frosting evenly over the top. Carefully add the second cake layer, then frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting for a smooth, polished finish.

Step 9: Add the Classic Fork Lines

For a charming finishing touch, gently drag the back of a fork across the top frosting, creating straight, even lines. It adds rustic character and signals homemade love with every slice.

How to Serve Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe even more eye-catching, consider sprinkling a few whole raisins or chopped walnuts on top. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few edible flowers can add visual appeal and hint at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or spiced coffee, enhancing those warm spice notes. If you want to get indulgent, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess that complements the frosting.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice this cake into small, elegant squares for a tea party or serve it as rustic wedges on a wooden board for a cozy gathering. Wrap individual slices in parchment for a charming gift or surprise for a friend who needs a comforting treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe tastes delightful even days after baking. Store leftovers covered in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh and moist.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, warming a slice gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds enhances the flavors and softens the frosting without melting it. It’s a quick way to revive that freshly baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruits?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or currants all work wonderfully if you want to mix things up. Just make sure to finely chop them to distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds tanginess and tenderness to the cake, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make a delicious gluten-free version. Just be aware that texture might be slightly different, so watch the baking time closely.

What if I don’t have walnuts?

No worries! The walnuts are optional and add a lovely crunch, but leaving them out won’t compromise the cake’s flavor or texture at all. You can also replace them with pecans or almonds if you prefer.

How long does the vanilla frosting stay fresh?

The vanilla frosting stays fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick stir before using to restore that smooth texture.

Final Thoughts

There is simply nothing like the warmth and charm of a homemade Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe to brighten any day. With its harmonious blend of spices, sweet raisins, and luscious frosting, this cake is certain to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your mixing bowls and give it a try — you’ll be rewarded with slices of pure comfort and plenty of smiles around the table.

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