Description
This nostalgic Spiced Raisin Cake is packed with cozy flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, combined with the sweetness of chopped raisins and a hint of vanilla. Topped with a smooth, creamy vanilla frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet afternoon with tea. The balance of spices and sweetness makes it a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the 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
For the Frosting:
- 2 cups icing sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3–4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Add the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped raisins and walnuts (if using).
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually mix in the icing sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Remove the cooled cake from the pan and cut it in half horizontally to create two layers.
- Spread a generous layer of frosting over the bottom half.
- Place the top half over the frosted layer and spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- To create the characteristic lines, run the back of a fork over the top frosting in straight, even lines.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve this nostalgic, spiced treat with a cup of tea or coffee.
Notes
- If you prefer a lighter cake, you can substitute the buttermilk with yogurt.
- For a different twist, try adding a handful of chopped dried cranberries or currants.
- This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg