Spice Cake with Coffee Toffee Crunch

Name: Spice Cake with Coffee Toffee Crunch
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup toffee bits; 1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Indulge in the warm and inviting flavors of this Spice Cake topped with a delightful Coffee Toffee Crunch. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:58:02.327Z

This Spice Cake with Coffee Toffee Crunch is a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of spices with a rich coffee flavor. It's perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm spices create a comforting and nostalgic flavor
The crunchy coffee toffee adds a delightful texture
Perfectly moist cake that pairs well with coffee or tea

      

The Allure of Spice Cake

Spice cake is a classic dessert that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves creates a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen and invites everyone to gather around. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate, perfect for cozy afternoons or festive celebrations.

One of the best aspects of spice cake is its versatility. It can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up with a decadent frosting. However, in this recipe, we take it a step further by adding a crunchy coffee toffee topping that elevates the flavors and textures, making it a memorable dessert for any occasion.

The Perfect Pairing

Imagine enjoying a slice of this luscious spice cake with a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea. The rich flavors of the cake complement the boldness of coffee beautifully, creating a delightful balance. The warm spices in the cake enhance the experience, making it a perfect choice for your afternoon tea or coffee breaks.

Not only does this spice cake stand out in flavor, but it also serves as a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings. Its inviting appearance, topped with the crunchy coffee toffee, will undoubtedly impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your spice cake turns out perfectly moist, be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what we want. Instead, mix just until you see no dry flour; this will keep the cake light and fluffy.

Another helpful tip is to let your cakes cool completely before assembling. If you rush this step, the layers may slide apart, and the toffee crunch may not adhere properly. Patience is key when it comes to creating a beautifully layered cake.

Ingredients

For the Spice Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coffee Toffee Crunch

1 cup toffee bits
1/2 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Buttermilk

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Coffee Toffee Crunch

In a small bowl, mix the toffee bits with cooled coffee and chopped nuts if using. Allow to sit for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Top with half of the coffee toffee mix, then add the second layer of cake. Top with the remaining coffee toffee crunch.

Let the cake sit for a few minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.

Storing Your Spice Cake

To maintain the freshness of your spice cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, although this may affect its texture slightly. When ready to serve, allow the cake to come to room temperature for the best flavor experience.

If you have leftover cake, you can freeze it for later enjoyment. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Creative Variations

While this recipe features a delightful coffee toffee crunch, feel free to experiment with different toppings or add-ins. For a chocolate twist, consider sprinkling chocolate chips into the batter or drizzling a rich chocolate ganache over the top. Alternatively, you could incorporate dried fruits like raisins or currants for added texture and flavor.

You can also adjust the spices according to your preferences. If you love the warmth of cinnamon, feel free to increase its quantity, or if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the spices slightly. The beauty of baking is that you can make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.