Frosted Spice Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A warmly spiced frosted cake with rich brown sugar flavor, perfect for fall gatherings and dessert lovers seeking comforting, moist treats with a hint of spice.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 1/4 cups sour milk
  • 2 1/3 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

  1. Beat egg whites and gradually add 1 cup of brown sugar until stiff peaks form.
  2. Combine all other ingredients, including the remaining brown sugar, and mix well.
  3. Spread the cake batter evenly in a greased baking pan.
  4. Gently spread the egg white and brown sugar mixture over the cake batter.
  5. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the layered mixture.
  6. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter cake, consider using egg whites only and substituting half of the shortening with applesauce. You can also replace sour milk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. If you don't have cloves, allspice or nutmeg can be a suitable substitute. Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Frosted Spice Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Coffee Ice Cream Pie for a themed dessert table. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Frosted Spice Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Frosted Spice Cake contains roughly 833 calories, with 27g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 762mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

833 kcal 42% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27.5g 55% DV
Total Fat 60.8g 78% DV
Carbs 33.4g 12% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 762.3mg 33% DV
Potassium 261mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 338.2mcg 38% DV
Vitamin D 7.3mcg 36% DV
Calcium 348mg 27% DV
Iron 8.8mg 49% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks and whites?

Using whole eggs will result in a denser cake, as the whites contribute to the cake's fluffiness when beaten separately. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use whole eggs, but for the best texture, stick to the original yolk and white method.

What can I replace shortening with if I want a healthier option?

You can substitute shortening with unsweetened applesauce or coconut oil for a healthier alternative. Both options will reduce the fat content and add moisture, but keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of this Frosted Spice Cake, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately to help bind the ingredients. Adjust baking time if needed, as gluten-free cakes can vary.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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