Eggnog Cake is like a cozy hug during the holiday season, wrapped in festive flavors and creamy textures. Imagine biting into a slice of this cake; the rich aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon dances through the air, while the velvety frosting whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. It’s not just dessert; it’s a celebration of winter’s best flavors that warms you from the inside out.
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Every holiday gathering deserves a star, and this Eggnog Cake takes center stage, making it impossible to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). I remember the first time I made this cake: my friends were skeptical at first. Eggnog in cake? But once they tasted it, their skepticism turned into pure delight. Now, it’s become our go-to treat for every festive occasion, whether it’s Christmas parties or cozy get-togethers by the fire. Get ready to impress your guests with a flavor experience they won’t forget!
Why You'll Love This Eggnog Cake
- This incredible Eggnog Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ease of Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this Eggnog Cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Flavor Profile: Delightfully spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, this cake captures all the warmth and cheer of holiday festivities in every bite.
Visual Appeal: The creamy frosting and festive garnishes make this Eggnog Cake a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.
Versatility: This recipe can easily be modified for gluten-free or dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Eggnog Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sifted flour ensures lightness and fluffiness in your cake.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly; using superfine sugar helps it dissolve more quickly.
- Baking Powder: Provides lift; make sure it’s fresh for optimal rising action.
- Ground Nutmeg: The star spice that gives eggnog its signature flavor; freshly grated nutmeg is even better!
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter: Richness is key; let it soften at room temperature before mixing for better incorporation.
- Elderflower Liqueur (Optional): A splash adds sophistication and pairs well with eggnog flavors.
- Eggs: Help bind everything together while adding moisture; use large eggs at room temperature.
- Eggnog: The hero of our story! Use store-bought or homemade eggnog for ultimate flavor.
For the Frosting:
- Cream Cheese: This adds tanginess to balance sweetness; ensure it’s softened to blend smoothly.
- Powdered Sugar: For sweetness without graininess; sift before measuring to avoid lumps.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla if possible for richer taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Eggnog Cake:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans with butter or nonstick spray and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set aside so these spices can mingle—like old friends catching up.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Think airy clouds – we want texture that’s lighter than your average Monday morning!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Eggnog
Add eggs one at a time to your butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Now pour in the eggnog—this is where the magic happens! Mix until combined but don’t overdo it!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; we’re aiming for smooth but not over-mixed batter here.
Step 6: Bake It Up
Divide your batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans before transferring them to wire racks.
Transfer to plates and generously frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled down completely—because let’s face it: nobody likes melted frosting!
And there you have it! A delightful Eggnog Cake that’s sure to bring cheer wherever you serve it!
You Must Know About Eggnog Cake
- This showstopping Eggnog Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your cake pans. While the oven warms up, mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine everything efficiently for a smooth batter, ensuring even baking.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize this Eggnog Cake by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You can also swap out the eggnog for flavored milk or use vegan alternatives to cater to dietary needs.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Eggnog Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy it warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Eggnog Cake
- This professional-quality Eggnog Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made this Eggnog Cake, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their compliments filled my kitchen with joy, proving that sometimes, a little festive spirit goes a long way in creating delicious memories.
FAQs
What is Eggnog Cake?
Eggnog Cake is a delightful dessert inspired by the classic holiday drink. It combines the rich flavors of eggnog, vanilla, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon into a moist cake. The cake is often frosted with a creamy eggnog-flavored icing or served with whipped cream, making it a perfect treat for festive gatherings. This cake not only captures the essence of eggnog but also brings warmth and joy to any celebration, especially during the holiday season.
How do you make Eggnog Cake?
To make Eggnog Cake, start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Next, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually incorporate eggnog into the mixture along with flour, baking powder, and your chosen spices. Pour the batter into prepared cake pans and bake until golden brown. Once cooled, frost with an eggnog glaze or serve plain for a simple yet delicious dessert that embodies holiday cheer.
Can I use store-bought eggnog for Eggnog Cake?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought eggnog for making Eggnog Cake. In fact, using pre-packaged eggnog can save time while still delivering great flavor. Just ensure that the eggnog is fresh and check its ingredients if you prefer a specific taste profile. Using store-bought eggnog makes this recipe even easier without sacrificing quality or taste.
What occasions are best for serving Eggnog Cake?
Eggnog Cake is perfect for various festive occasions such as Christmas parties, Thanksgiving dinners, or New Year celebrations. Its rich flavor profile makes it an ideal dessert to complement holiday meals. Additionally, it can be served at winter gatherings or cozy family get-togethers to create a warm atmosphere. The nostalgic taste of this cake will surely become a favorite among guests of all ages.
Conclusion
In summary, Eggnog Cake is a delectable dessert that captures the spirit of the holiday season through its rich flavors and festive appeal. Its easy preparation makes it accessible for home bakers looking to impress their guests during celebrations. Whether enjoyed at Christmas or any winter gathering, this cake stands out as a crowd-pleaser. Don’t miss out on creating your own Eggnog Cake to share joy and warmth with family and friends!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Eggnog Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Eggnog Cake is the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the creamy, spiced flavors of classic eggnog into a moist, luscious cake. Perfectly frosted with a rich cream cheese icing, this cake brings warmth and delight to every festive gathering. With its inviting aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon, every slice promises to be a celebration of winter’s best flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy evening by the fire, this Eggnog Cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy their sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: 2 tbsp elderflower liqueur
- For the Frosting: 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate the eggnog.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Split batter between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling before frosting.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth; frost cooled cakes generously.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (84g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
