Homemade Spice Cake With Caramel Icing

Oh wow, let me tell you—this homemade spice cake with caramel icing is pure magic. It’s soft, cozy, and packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. And that caramel icing? Oh my goodness, it melts right into the cake!

I’ve made this cake so many times, and it never lasts long in my house. The flavors are deep, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. Plus, the smell? Your whole kitchen will feel like a warm hug.

If you love easy, homemade desserts that taste like they came from a bakery, you have to try this. It’s simple to make but feels extra special. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!

So, what do you say? Grab your whisk, and let’s bake the best spice cake ever. You’re gonna love it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced & Moist: A blend of warm spices and molasses creates a deep, rich flavor in every bite.
• Decadent Caramel Icing: Buttery, silky caramel icing takes this cake to the next level.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing cake.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Serve it as a comforting fall dessert, a holiday favorite, or a casual weekend treat.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round or square cake pan
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Saucepan
• Cooling rack

Key Ingredients

For the Cake:

• Cake Flour: 2 cups, sifted for a light, tender crumb
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup, providing just the right sweetness
• Shortening: 1/2 cup, for a moist, tender texture
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, enhancing all the flavors
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon, the star of our spice blend
• Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon, adding warmth and depth
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, for that classic spice cake aroma
• Ground Allspice: 1/4 teaspoon, bringing complexity
• Baking Soda: 1/4 teaspoon, for proper rise
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons, ensuring a light, fluffy texture
• Milk: 3/4 cup, at room temperature
• Unsulphured Molasses: 1/4 cup, adding richness and color
• Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature

For the Caramel Icing:

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup
• Brown Sugar: 2 cups, packed
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
• Powdered Sugar: 4 cups
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, and baking powder.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and molasses. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Icing

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, then bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes while stirring continuously.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before whisking in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Beat until smooth and thick. If the icing is too thick, add a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake has fully cooled, pour the caramel icing over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Let the icing set for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for the perfect cozy treat.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Bake the cake a day in advance and add the icing just before serving for the freshest taste.

Variations

• Add Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Spiced Apple Version: Stir in 1/2 cup of finely chopped apples for extra moisture and flavor.
• Maple Caramel Icing: Substitute 1/4 cup of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a subtle maple flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of cake flour.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a smooth batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Let the Cake Cool Completely: This prevents the icing from melting and running off the cake.
• Adjust the Icing Thickness: If your caramel icing is too thick, add a splash of cream. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380
Carbohydrates	55g
Protein	4g
Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	10g
Sugar	40g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	180mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake in advance and store it in an airtight container. Add the caramel icing just before serving for the best texture.

2. Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, but shortening creates a lighter texture. Butter will add a richer flavor but may slightly change the crumb.

3. What if my icing is too thick or too thin?
If too thick, add a splash of cream. If too thin, add more powdered sugar and beat until smooth.

4. Can I make this into cupcakes?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 18-22 minutes.

Conclusion

This Homemade Spice Cake With Caramel Icing is the ultimate comforting dessert, perfect for fall, winter, or any time you’re craving a warm, spiced treat. Whether you enjoy it fresh or save a slice for later, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your home!