Spiced Devil Food Cake
Spiced Devil Food Cake boasts rich chocolate flavor complemented by warm cinnamon and allspice, creating a moist, tender crumb with a hint of spice. Ideal for celebrations or indulgent gatherings, its layered structure and bold flavors make it a show-stopping dessert for spice lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, cinnamon, allspice, soda, and salt.
- Cream the shortening, brown sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
- Add the beaten eggs and chopped chocolate; beat thoroughly.
- Alternately add the sifted dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into prepared cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of regular chocolate. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. For added texture, try folding in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips. For a festive twist, you can spice it up with a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a slice of Quick Ambrosia Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider frosting it with a rich chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting for an indulgent finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Spiced Devil Food Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy a slice at room temperature for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Devil Food Cake contains roughly 405 calories, with 9g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 877mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture. Just be aware that you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly since cake flour absorbs less moisture than all-purpose flour.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Keep in mind that using butter will add a richer flavor, while coconut oil can impart a subtle coconut taste.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of the Spiced Devil Food Cake, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately to help bind the ingredients together.
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).