Thanksgiving is just around the corner and we all know the classic desserts: pumpkin pie, pecan pie and apple pie. If you’re looking to skip the staples and try something a little different this year, try this spice cake with browned butter frosting recipe. This cake is the perfect autumnal treat to enjoy after turkey and stuffing, and all it takes is one bite to realize you may just have to make this new dessert a tradition.
Spice Cake
2 1/2 cups cake flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) salted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
Directions: Preheat oven to 350°. Grease two 8 in x 2 in round cake pans. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda and spices together. Combine the buttermilk and vanilla in a separate bowl.
Using a paddle attachment of a stand mixer, beat the butter at a medium speed until creamy. Add the sugars and beat until the mixture is fluffy for about three to four minutes. Beat the eggs in one at a time. Beat in the flour mixture at a low speed in three batches, alternating each time with the buttermilk and vanilla mixture. Mix until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes (start checking it after 25). Let the cakes cool for about ten minutes before transferring them to a rack and letting them cool completely.
Browned Butter Frosting
½ cup salted butter
4 cups powdered sugar
1 ½ tsp. vanilla extract
3 tbsp. milk
Directions: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter down and continue stirring it occasionally until it begins to bubble and brown around the edges. Wait for it to turn a light brown (with brown bits on the bottom of the saucepan) and remove from heat. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract and milk to the browned butter. Whisk together until smooth.
Once the cake is completely cooled, frost it and enjoy your new Thanksgiving tradition!
Photo Credit:
Miranda Batch