Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a treat that combines warmth, comfort, and a touch of spice, you’ve got to try this Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe. It’s a beautifully moist cake filled with fragrant spices and tender raisins, all wrapped up in a luscious vanilla frosting that feels like a cozy hug with every bite. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring during a quiet afternoon tea, this cake brings classic flavors to life with an inviting homemade charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in the Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe. Each one has its role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, spice, or that creamy finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and softness your cake needs.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For balanced sweetness that bakes evenly.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds richness and subtle molasses notes.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with acidity to ensure a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers warm, comforting spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a hint of aromatic depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings subtle sweetness and nuttiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice: A fragrant mix of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Provides tenderizing acidity for a soft crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything and add protein for texture.
- 1 cup raisins, finely chopped: Sweet bursts of fruit throughout the cake.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with soothing aroma.
- 2 cups icing sugar: The base for the silky-smooth vanilla frosting.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes your frosting creamy and spreadable.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Boosts the frosting’s sweet aroma.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the frosting to just the right consistency.
How to Make Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pan so the cake releases easily once baked — this simple step makes a big difference later!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. Getting these spices evenly mixed ensures every bite is packed with that irresistible spiced flavor.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gently mix until everything is just combined. The batter should be smooth but don’t overmix — you want a tender, moist cake.
Step 4: Fold in Raisins and Walnuts
Carefully fold in the chopped raisins and walnuts if you’re using them. The raisins add sweet chewiness while the walnuts provide a lovely textural contrast.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell incredible by this point!
Step 6: Cool Before Frosting
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This is an important step to make sure your vanilla frosting spreads smoothly without melting.
Step 7: Prepare the Vanilla Frosting
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter with the icing sugar and vanilla extract. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency — silky, smooth, and just sweet enough.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Slice the cooled cake horizontally to create two layers. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the bottom layer, then place the top layer carefully on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides evenly.
Step 9: Add the Finishing Touches
Use the back of a fork to gently create straight, even lines across the top frosting. This classic detail adds charm and a little texture, making your cake look both rustic and inviting.
How to Serve Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the top of the cake with a few extra chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon for an added pop of color and taste. A few whole raisins placed artfully can also enhance the rustic appeal.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with warm beverages like chai tea or a bold coffee. For a more indulgent touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream to complement the spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, decorate with edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the look. You can also serve it in individual slices topped with fresh berries for a charming dessert platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps preserve moisture and freshness perfectly.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to two months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
Reheat slices briefly in the microwave—about 15 seconds at a time—to bring the cake back to its soft, moist glory. Warm frosting gently softens and blends the spiced flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even chopped dates work wonderfully and each gives a unique twist to the flavor.
Is the cake suitable for nut allergies?
Yes, simply omit the walnuts and the cake will still be deliciously moist and flavorful. The spices and raisins shine all on their own!
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk, letting it sit for 5 minutes. This mimics buttermilk’s acidity and keeps the cake tender.
How do I make the frosting vegan?
Swap butter for a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk. Make sure the icing sugar is vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a creamy frosting without dairy.
Can I make this cake into cupcakes?
Yes, just divide the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The vanilla frosting makes the perfect cupcake topper too!
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe is one of those comforting classics that feels like home in every bite. The warm spices, juicy raisins, and dreamy frosting come together so naturally, it’s hard not to smile while enjoying it. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and share this joy with your friends and family!
Print
Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spiced Raisin Cake with Vanilla Frosting is a delightful treat combining warm spices, moist cake texture, and a creamy vanilla frosting. Infused with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice, and studded with chopped raisins and optional walnuts, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Ideal for gatherings or festive occasions, the cake is topped with a smooth vanilla frosting that adds a sweet finishing touch and decorative fork lines for a charming presentation.
Ingredients
Cake
- 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
Vanilla Frosting
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a cake pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice until well combined.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir gently and mix just until all ingredients are combined to avoid overmixing.
- Incorporate raisins and walnuts: Fold in the finely chopped raisins and optional chopped walnuts carefully to evenly distribute them throughout the batter.
- Prepare for baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan to ensure it sets and is easier to frost.
- Prepare the frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the icing sugar and vanilla extract and continue to beat until smooth.
- Adjust frosting consistency: Add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency suitable for icing the cake.
- Slice the cake: Once the cake is fully cooled, carefully slice it horizontally into two even halves to prepare for frosting the interior.
- Apply frosting between layers: Spread a generous layer of the vanilla frosting over the bottom half of the cake.
- Assemble the cake: Place the top half of the cake over the frosted bottom layer, then spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake for full coverage.
- Add decorative lines: Using the back of a fork, gently run it across the top frosting in straight, even lines to create a characteristic, decorative pattern.
Notes
- Chopping the raisins finely ensures they distribute evenly and provide a better texture throughout the cake.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and complement the warm spices nicely.
- Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- The frosting consistency can be adjusted with milk to achieve your preferred thickness for spreading.
- This cake stores well covered at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- For a more intense spice flavor, you can increase the cinnamon by 1/2 teaspoon.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
