Traditional Irish Spice Cake Recipe

This Traditional Irish Spice Cake is a cozy, aromatic treat that brings warmth to any occasion. With its rich blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, every bite is a comforting embrace of spiced sweetness.

The cake’s moist, tender crumb pairs perfectly with a hint of buttery richness, making it irresistible. Ready in just 55 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive dessert that feels like a hug from the Emerald Isle.

The subtle crunch of sugar on top contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy interior, creating a delightful texture. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a dessert centerpiece, this cake’s warm, inviting flavors will transport you to a rustic Irish kitchen.

Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, it’s a recipe that promises to become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients for Traditional Irish Spice Cake

• ½ cup (4 fl oz/120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature (or substitute with ½ cup milk + ½ tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup (4 oz/115 g) unsweetened applesauce (or substitute with mashed banana for a different flavor)
• ¼ cup (2 oz/60 ml) vegetable oil (canola or sunflower oil works too)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup (4 oz/115 g) granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup (2 oz/57 g) dark brown sugar (light brown sugar can be used as a substitute)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups (6¼ oz/177 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch (20-cm) square pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, applesauce, oil, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Serve as is or dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This Traditional Irish Spice Cake is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with a few simple additions. Try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a cozy touch, pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Storage Secrets: Keeping It Fresh

To maintain the cake’s moist texture, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Spice It Up: Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this cake to suit your taste! Add ½ cup of raisins or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture. For a richer flavor, substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter. You can also experiment with spices—try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a unique twist.

Baking Made Easy: Time-Saving Tips

To streamline the process, measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to quickly combine the wet and dry ingredients. If you’re short on time, skip the powdered sugar dusting—the cake is just as tasty without it!

Essential Equipment: What You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need an 8-inch square baking pan, parchment paper, and a wire rack for cooling. A whisk and mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients, and a toothpick will help you check for doneness. Having these tools ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.