If you’ve ever wished to bottle up the warm, cozy feeling of the holidays, the Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake) is your answer. This dessert layers moist, spiced cake infused with real eggnog and aromatic nutmeg, paired with a luscious creamy frosting and a silky white chocolate ganache that makes every bite feel like a celebration. With its tender crumb and dazzling presentation, it’s the perfect showstopper that brings the heart of the season right to your dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this cake is surprisingly straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, moistness, and festive flair. From the all-purpose flour providing structure to the spiced notes of nutmeg and cinnamon, and the rich cream cheese frosting adding just the right touch of indulgence, every element counts.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake, sifted to ensure a light, tender crumb.
- Baking Powder: Fresh powder gives the rise needed for fluffy layers.
- Ground Nutmeg: A holiday star, fresh nutmeg elevates aroma and flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a sweet warmth that complements the eggnog perfectly.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter helps create a smooth, tender cake.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake, with an option to mix in brown sugar for depth.
- Light Brown Sugar: Brings a rich molasses undertone, enhancing moistness.
- Large Eggs: At room temperature to help bind and fluff the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Use real vanilla for authentic, rich flavor.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient, room temperature for smooth blending.
- Water: For the simple syrup to keep the cake extra moist.
- Rum: Optional, but adds a sophisticated warmth to the syrup.
- Cream Cheese: Fully softened to create that silky, tangy frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Ensures the frosting is sweet and smooth.
- Heavy Whipping Cream or Eggnog: For luscious ganache, choose eggnog for extra holiday flavor.
- White Chocolate: High-quality chocolate melts into a gorgeous ganache topping.
How to Make Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake)
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and prep three 6-inch cake pans by greasing and lightly flouring them. Next, mix all your dry ingredients together—flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt—this blend builds the classic spiced flavor and ensures an even texture. Then cream the butter until silky smooth before gradually adding both sugars; this step is key for creating a light and fluffy base. Incorporate the eggs one at a time to maintain that volume, followed by the vanilla extract. Alternate adding your dry mix and eggnog gently but thoroughly until your batter is velvety and beautifully spiced.
Step 2: Baking the Layers
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops so they bake uniformly. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking with a toothpick until it comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These layers are the heart of your Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake), so patience here rewards you with perfectly tender cake.
Step 3: Making the Simple Syrup
While your cakes cool, prepare a simple syrup by heating water and sugar together until the sugar dissolves completely. For a grown-up touch, stir in some rum—it adds an enchanting depth. Brushing this syrup on the cake layers keeps them wonderfully moist and flavorful, elevating the entire dessert experience.
Step 4: Creating the Creamy Frosting
Beat your softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy, providing that signature tangy richness. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar to reach a smooth, sweet frosting that will layer perfectly between your cakes and coat the outside with a luscious finish that’s indulgently creamy without being overly sweet.
Step 5: Making the White Chocolate Ganache
For the final flourish, gently heat white chocolate with heavy cream or substitute eggnog for extra festivity until completely smooth and glossy. This ganache will be drizzled on your cake, adding a silky, luxurious layer that brings the entire Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake) to life with glamour and flavor.
Step 6: Assembling the Cake
Trim your cooled cake layers if needed to ensure even stacking. Brush each layer generously with simple syrup for ultimate moistness, then spread a thick layer of creamy frosting between layers. Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting to seal in crumbs), then chill the whole cake to set. Once chilled, drizzle the white chocolate ganache along the edges, letting it cascade naturally, then smooth the top with a spatula. Chill again to let everything set beautifully before serving.
How to Serve Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake)
Garnishes
Nothing finishes the Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake) like a few thoughtful garnishes. A light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon dusted over the top adds an inviting aroma. For a touch of sparkle, edible gold flakes or pearl sprinkles catch the light wonderfully. Garnishing with toasted pecans or candied cranberries can add crunch and festive color that make each slice even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This moist holiday layer cake pairs beautifully with a cup of warm mulled cider or spiced chai tea, both enhancing the cake’s spices without overpowering them. If you want to add a little contrast, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream balances richness with creaminess. For an adult twist, serve alongside a small glass of bourbon or spiced rum to echo those cozy holiday vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to wow your guests visually, consider serving the cake on a rustic wooden board or a festive silver platter adorned with seasonal greenery like pine sprigs or holly berries. Slice the cake into generous portions and plate with a drizzle of extra ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar shaped as snowflakes. For holiday parties, mini versions of this cake served in clear cups with a spoon offer a charming, mess-free way to enjoy the flavors everyone loves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, your Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the delicate cream cheese frosting and ganache, ensuring each bite stays just as delightful as when freshly made. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavors and moist texture.
Freezing
This cake freezes surprisingly well, which is great for holiday planning. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it sit at room temperature for an hour. This makes the Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake) an excellent make-ahead choice for festive gatherings or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t usually recommended. However, if you prefer, you can let slices warm slightly in a warm room or enjoy with a hot beverage that complements the flavors perfectly. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the frosting and ganache unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this cake?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works wonderfully and helps save time, just make sure it’s fresh and at room temperature before mixing into the batter for the best incorporation and flavor.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
While this recipe is rich with dairy for its creamy textures, you can experiment by using dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter, along with a non-dairy milk-based eggnog substitute. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Can I substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, dark chocolate will work and provide a deeper, richer contrast to the sweet spices, though it will change the color and tone of the ganache. Adjust the sweetness if you prefer a less sweet finish.
How far in advance can I assemble this cake?
This cake can be fully assembled and chilled up to 2 days before serving, making it a great option for stress-free holiday planning. Just keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator until serving time.
What if I don’t have rum for the simple syrup?
No worries! The rum is optional and only there to add warmth and depth. Simple syrup made with just water and sugar will keep your cake moist and delicious without alcohol.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about bringing the flavors of the season together in a moist, spiced layer cake like the Festive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake). Whether you’re treating your family or impressing holiday guests, this cake promises an unforgettable burst of festive cheer in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a holiday tradition you’ll eagerly anticipate year after year.
PrintFestive Eggnog Cake with Creamy Frosting (Moist Holiday Layer Cake)
Celebrate the holidays with this Festive Eggnog Cake featuring moist, spiced layers and a luscious creamy frosting. Enhanced with nutmeg and cinnamon, soaked in a rum-infused simple syrup, and topped with a smooth white chocolate ganache, this classic American dessert brings warmth and elegance to any festive table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour, sifted
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder, must be fresh
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg, fresh nutmeg enhances aroma
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon, adjust to taste
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter, room temperature
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar, can partially replace with brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed when measuring
- 4 Large Eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract, use real for best flavor
- 1 cup Eggnog, room temperature
For the Simple Syrup
- 1 cup Water, substitute with milk for added flavor
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tbsp Rum, optional
For the Frosting
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, fully softened
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar, sifted
For the Ganache
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream or Eggnog
- 8 oz White Chocolate, high-quality
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour three 6-inch cake pans to ensure easy cake release after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a stand mixer, cream the room temperature unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add both granulated and light brown sugars and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and blend well.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Alternately add the flour mixture and eggnog to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold and mix until the batter is just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops for an even bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then carefully remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Simple Syrup: Heat water and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and stir in optional rum. Let cool.
- Make Frosting: Beat the fully softened cream cheese (and butter if using) until fluffy. Gradually incorporate sifted powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Make Ganache: Chop the white chocolate finely and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat heavy whipping cream or eggnog until hot but not boiling, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the Cake: If needed, trim the cooled cake layers for even stacking. Brush each layer generously with the simple syrup to add moisture and flavor. Spread frosting between the layers and then apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake. Chill briefly to set.
- Apply Ganache and Final Touches: Drizzle the white chocolate ganache along the edges, letting it drip down the sides. Smooth the top with a spatula. Chill again until the ganache is firm and set.
Notes
- Use fresh nutmeg for a more aromatic and flavorful cake.
- The rum in the simple syrup is optional but adds a deeper holiday flavor.
- You can substitute milk for water in the simple syrup for a richer taste.
- Room temperature ingredients help create a smooth, even batter.
- Allow the cake to chill between frosting and ganache applications to ensure neat layers and a professional finish.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator; bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.