How to Make the Best Eggnog Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Eggnog cake. Just the name conjures up images of cozy nights by the fireplace, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the air, and the taste of pure holiday cheer in every bite. This cake is a Christmas classic for a reason! It’s incredibly moist, bursting with the flavors of eggnog, and topped with a fluffy, decadent frosting that will have you licking your plate clean.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking for a foolproof recipe, this guide will walk you through every step of making the best eggnog cake you’ve ever had. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this festive treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make this delicious eggnog cake:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Eggnog Frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes:

• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Star-shaped sprinkles

Tools of the Trade

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Spatulas
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Wire rack
• Serrated knife

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Let’s get baking!

1. Prep the Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the eggnog and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.

7. Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool Completely: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Whipping Up the Eggnog Frosting:

1. Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter using an electric mixer until smooth.

2. Gradually Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.

3. Incorporate Eggnog: Add the eggnog and vanilla extract, then increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until light and fluffy.

4. Add Spices: Beat in the nutmeg and salt.

Assembling Your Masterpiece:

1. Level the Cakes: If necessary, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes so they are flat.

2. Frosting Time: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Top with half of the eggnog frosting, spreading it evenly. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

3. Decorate!: Get creative with your decorations! You can sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or add festive star-shaped sprinkles.

Eggnog Cake Slice

FAQs About Eggnog Cake

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. You can also make the frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

My cake sank in the middle! What went wrong?

Don’t worry, it happens! The most common reasons for a sunken cake are over-mixing the batter, opening the oven door too frequently during baking, or not baking the cake long enough. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Tips for the Best Eggnog Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them incorporate evenly into the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Proper Cooling: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Storage: Store leftover eggnog cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Eggnog Cake Ingredients

Conclusion

There you have it – a complete guide to baking the best eggnog cake this holiday season! It’s a recipe sure to become a family favorite, enjoyed year after year. With its rich flavor, moist texture, and festive aroma, this cake is guaranteed to spread holiday cheer to all who are lucky enough to taste it. Now, go on and get baking! And don’t forget to share your baking triumphs (and maybe even a slice of cake!) with us in the comments below.

Want to explore more eggnog-inspired treats? Check out our recipe for a classic Eggnog Pound Cake or indulge in a creamy and decadent Eggnog Cheesecake. Happy baking!