Sour Cream Spice Cake Recipe

If you adore cakes that are irresistibly moist, warmly spiced, and feature a subtle tang, then this Sour Cream Spice Cake is about to become your new favorite treat. The perfect balance of cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg brings cozy flavors to every bite, while the sour cream ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Topped with a luscious molasses cream cheese frosting, this cake is as comforting as it is delicious, making it a showstopper for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sour Cream Spice Cake calls for straightforward pantry staples that come together to create a flavor-packed, perfectly textured cake. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the warming spices that define the taste to the fats and sour cream that guarantee moistness and richness.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure to the cake without weighing it down.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents give the cake its tender lift and light crumb.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and spices, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon: Offers a warm and familiar spice note central to the cake’s character.
• Allspice: Adds depth with its unique blend of flavors reminiscent of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
• Ground nutmeg: A subtle, fragrant spice that complements the other seasonings perfectly.
• Light brown sugar: Contributes a rich molasses undertone and ensures moistness.
• Granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Melted for richness and a smooth texture in every bite.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake extra moist and soft, extending its freshness.
• Large eggs: Bind all ingredients and add structure for a fluffier texture.
• Sour cream: The secret star that gives this cake its tender, velvety crumb and subtle tang.
• Whole milk: Lights up the batter and balances richness for perfect consistency.

How to Make Sour Cream Spice Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Prepare a 9×13-inch light-colored aluminum pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for a clean release after baking. Having your pan ready will keep things running smoothly once the batter is mixed.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. This step ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps every bite carry that beautiful spice profile uniformly throughout the cake.

Step 3: Blend Sugars and Fats

In a separate large bowl, combine the brown sugar and granulated sugar first, whisking them together. Add the melted butter and vegetable oil, whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This ensures that the sugars dissolve well and the fats are perfectly combined, which will contribute to the cake’s moist texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs, Sour Cream, and Milk

Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to incorporate air and achieve a smooth batter. Then stir in the sour cream and whole milk. The sour cream is key here as it keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender while lending a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the cake dense. The batter should be smooth and thick, holding promise of a tender, flavorful cake once baked.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform baking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. If the cake starts browning too fast, tent it loosely with foil around the 25-minute mark. Once baked, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before frosting or serving.

How to Serve Sour Cream Spice Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your Sour Cream Spice Cake by dusting it lightly with cinnamon sugar or topping with chopped toasted pecans for a little crunch. Fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can add elegance and balance, bringing out the warmth of the spices in a delightful way.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced chai tea or robust coffee to accentuate its cozy flavors. For a slightly lighter touch, serve with fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears, which add a fresh, crisp note against the spiced richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this cake as a layered treat by slicing it horizontally and adding your favorite filling like spiced apple butter or a tangy cream cheese layer between the slices. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares for a charming tea party platter or offer mini scoops of vanilla bean ice cream alongside warm slices for a dreamy dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Sour Cream Spice Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the moist crumb and keeps the spices fragrant without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake uniced for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator for best results before frosting or serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cake warm, simply heat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This will bring the spices and moist texture back to life, especially delightful when paired with a warm drink or dollop of frosting.

FAQs

Can I substitute the sour cream in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche, as both provide a similar tang and moisture. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly, so sour cream remains the best choice for authentic taste.

What makes this a “Sour Cream Spice Cake”?

The combination of sour cream and warming spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg defines this cake. Sour cream lends a rich moisture and slight tang, while the spices fill every bite with comforting, aromatic flavor.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum or similar stabilizer for texture. Baking times might vary slightly, so watch the cake closely.

What frosting pairs best with Sour Cream Spice Cake?

Molasses cream cheese frosting is a classic choice that complements the spices and adds a tangy sweetness. Alternatively, a simple cinnamon buttercream or whipped cream can also be fantastic companions.

How long will this cake stay fresh once frosted?

Once frosted, the cake will stay fresh at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it covered for up to 5 days, bringing it back to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Sour Cream Spice Cake is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort into your kitchen with every slice. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, an afternoon treat, or just because you deserve something delicious, this cake is worth making again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience its tender crumb and cozy spice blend for yourself!