prep time: 30 min | bake time: 30 min | total time: 2 hrs
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of warm spices filling the kitchen. It’s one of those aromas that instantly makes a house feel like home.
I originally created this cake for the holiday season, but after making it again and again, I realized it deserved a place on my baking list all year round. The soft cake paired with whipped cream cheese frosting is one of those classic combinations that never gets old.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. There are no complicated techniques or specialty ingredients just pantry staples transformed into a bakery-worthy layer cake. The frosting is light, creamy, and perfectly balances the warm spices without overpowering them. And because it’s completely eggless with an easy dairy-free option, everyone can enjoy a slice.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease and line three 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, oil, vanilla extract, light brown sugar, and cane sugar until well combined.
Sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, allspice mix and salt. Whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched or a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare your equipment. In a large mixing bowl, use either a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer. Add the cold cream cheese and beat briefly until slightly softened without any lumps.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar in two additions. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth and light, about 4–5 minutes.
Incorporate remaining ingredients. Add the cold whipping cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon powder. Whip the frosting. Continue mixing until the frosting is fully combined, smooth, and holds soft peaks.
Spread a small dollop of cream cheese frosting onto your cake stand or serving plate to secure the first cake layer.
Place the first cake layer on the stand and spread 5-6 scoops of cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula. Add the second cake layer and repeat with another 5-6 scoops of frosting, spreading it into an even layer.
Place the final cake layer on top, gently pressing down to level the cake. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting over the top and sides, then refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm. Cover the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing the top and sides with an offset spatula or cake scraper.
Transfer any remaining frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe swirls or a border around the top of the cake. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Yes, this cake is entirely eggless. The combination of lemon juice and baking soda creates a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide, helping the cake rise while maintaining a moist, fluffy texture, No eggs needed.
Absolutely. Cinnamon creates a warm, classic flavor, while allspice gives the cake a deeper spice profile. Both work beautifully.
Molasses adds depth of flavor and color, but you can simply leave it out.
Yes! Try combining cinnamon with a little nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a more traditional spice cake flavor.
For optimal consistency and flavor, full-fat cream cheese is recommended. Low-fat or spreadable versions often contain added moisture, which can make the frosting too soft. For a dairy-free option, choose a thick vegan cream cheese and pair it with a stable vegan whipping cream.
You can use two 9-inch round pans or bake the batter in a 9×13-inch rectangular pan. Be sure to adjust the baking time—larger, thinner layers will bake faster, while thicker layers may take longer.
Soft frosting is often due to warm ingredients or overmixing. Ensure both the cream cheese and whipping cream are cold before mixing, and avoid overbeating. If the frosting is too loose, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes, then rewhip briefly to restore structure.
Definitely! This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, birthdays, or any special celebration.
Did you give this recipe a try? I’d love to see how your Spice Layer Cake turned out! Snap a photo and tag me @pastrybysaloni. Whether it’s picture-perfect or proudly homemade, your version might just inspire someone else to bake.
Love Eggless Baking? Try These Next:
Hungry for more easy, tropical-inspired baking ideas? My cookbook Vegan Baking Made Simple is filled with eggless desserts that don’t require fancy ingredients or advanced skills — just good food and good vibes. Grab your copy on Amazon HERE.
4 Responses
wonderful recipe , baked it today. it came out very well and tastes amazing , I did not add the molases
I made the frosting as well but the decoration we did was a disaster my boys helped me decorate and had a good laugh , I have to learn to decorate, nevertheless yummy cake I used 20cm two pans
I have tried a couple of your recipes and every time it turns out yummy
Hi Harini
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe and that it turned out delicious. Decorating disasters sound like the best kind—especially with little helpers and lots of laughter!
Wonderful recipe! Turned out perfectly! I made this cake for my daughter in laws 50th surprise birthday party. Everyone loved it. Many said it was the best cake they ever had – vegans and non vegans alike. I added a few more spices to make it a spice cake (her favourite). I also substituted the frosting. I wasn’t sure how the frosting with the recipe would travel or sit out for a few hours. I substituted a vegan cream cheese frosting recipe still adding cinnamon and cinnamon extract. I made 3 x the recipe in 3 – 9 x 13 pans.
I wish I could add a photo.
Hi Sharyl
So glad to hear it was a hit — especially for such a special occasion! Love that you made it a spice cake and adapted the frosting to suit the setting. Sounds like a delicious and thoughtful twist. I wish I could see a photo too — thank you for sharing!