If you love simple, fuss-free baking with a dash of nostalgia and a twist of warm autumn spices, this Spice Crazy Cake Recipe is just what you need! There’s no eggs, no butter, no milk—just pantry staples, a little bit of science, and a generous helping of spice making this cake irresistibly moist, tender, and fragrant. Whether you’re vegan, facing an empty fridge, or just craving old-fashioned comfort, this Spice Crazy Cake Recipe comes together quickly and delivers big on classic flavor. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with every cozy, cinnamony bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for the Spice Crazy Cake Recipe couldn’t be simpler—everything has a purpose, and together, they create pure magic. Each choice brings something to the table, from fluffy texture to deep sweetness and just the right amount of spice. Here’s what you’ll need and some handy tips for each one!
- All-purpose flour: Your trusty base—always sift if you can for the softest crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Classic sweetness, helps the cake brown just right.
- Brown sugar: Adds extra depth and moistness, with a hint of molasses that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Baking soda: The secret to lift and fluff, reacting with the vinegar for a beautiful rise.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Ground cinnamon: The backbone of the spice blend—don’t skimp!
- Ground nutmeg: Warm, nutty, and fragrant, just a little brings out big flavor.
- Ground cloves: Adds a deep, rich undertone—totally transforms the cake.
- Ground ginger: Bright, snappy, and just enough to wake up your taste buds.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps things moist and tender, plus it’s easy to mix in.
- White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for lift, and you won’t taste it at all!
- Vanilla extract: A splash ties everything together with sweet aroma.
- Water: The simple ingredient that brings the batter together—room temperature works best.
How to Make Spice Crazy Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Get things going by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Making sure your oven is nice and hot before you start mixing ensures the cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. This is a great time to pull out your 8×8-inch baking dish, too—no greasing required!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In your ungreased baking dish, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, both sugars, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Make sure to mix thoroughly so every bite is perfectly spiced and sweet. I like using a fork or a small whisk to gently blend it all together right in the pan—less mess, more fun!
Step 3: Make Three Wells
Here’s where a little cake magic happens! Use a spoon to create three small wells in your dry mix. This quirky step is a classic from the original crazy cake tradition and ensures all your wet ingredients get distributed evenly when you mix.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour the vegetable oil into one well, vinegar into the second, and vanilla extract into the third. This keeps things simple and means you don’t need any extra bowls. Now pour one cup of water over everything—don’t worry, it will look a bit odd, but it works!
Step 5: Mix it Up
Grab your fork or spatula and mix the batter until it’s smooth and combined, scraping the corners as you go. Don’t overmix—just go until all the flour pockets disappear and the batter looks creamy and uniform. This should only take a minute or so.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The real test? Stick a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, your Spice Crazy Cake Recipe is ready! Let it cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. That wait is the hardest part, but so worth it!
How to Serve Spice Crazy Cake Recipe
Garnishes
This cake is a blank canvas for all sorts of goodies. A classic dusting of powdered sugar is simple and elegant. Or, go for a dollop of whipped coconut cream for extra decadence. If you’re feeling playful, a drizzle of maple glaze or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream takes things over the top.
Side Dishes
The warmth of this Spice Crazy Cake Recipe pairs deliciously with a cup of hot coffee, masala chai, or spiced cider. For a brunch-y spread, serve alongside fresh orange slices or a bowl of juicy berries to add a burst of freshness and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Dress up individual cake squares with tiny cinnamon sticks, candied ginger, or a scatter of toasted nuts. Stack layers with frosting or jam for a simple layer cake, or cut into bite-sized cubes for a sweet finger food platter at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the pan tightly with foil, or transfer leftover cake squares to an airtight container. At room temperature, the Spice Crazy Cake Recipe stays moist for about two days. For longer storage, pop it in the fridge where it keeps well for up to five days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Slice it into squares, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, and stash in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh up to three months. Thaw on the counter or gently warm for that fresh-baked taste anytime craving strikes.
Reheating
For a just-out-of-the-oven feel, microwave individual squares for 10–15 seconds or pop them in a low oven for a few minutes. If you’ve got a batch straight from the freezer, unwrap and let it come to room temperature, then warm as desired.
FAQs
Is the Spice Crazy Cake Recipe really vegan?
Absolutely! There are no eggs, no dairy, and no animal products at all. It’s perfect for those with allergies or anyone following a plant-based lifestyle, but everyone will love the flavor and texture.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Just double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—it might need a couple extra minutes, so test with a toothpick before pulling it out.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can swap in white whole wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose if you’d like a heartier texture. Full whole wheat will make the cake a bit denser, but still tasty!
What’s the best way to add nuts or raisins?
Simply fold up to 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the batter before baking. They bring extra texture and lovely bursts of flavor.
Does the cake really rise without eggs?
It does! The baking soda and vinegar react to create bubbles, making the cake light and fluffy just like the classic version. You won’t even miss the eggs, promise.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after fast, flavorful comfort, this Spice Crazy Cake Recipe is bound to become your new go-to treat. It’s quick, customizable, and downright delightful—just the thing for sharing (or late-night snacking). Give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with sweet, spicy aroma and smiles all around!
Print
Spice Crazy Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Spice Crazy Cake Recipe is a delightful vegan dessert option that is dairy-free and egg-free, made with a blend of warm spices and pantry staples. It’s a simple and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In an ungreased 8×8-inch baking dish, combine dry ingredients.
- Create wells and mix: Make three wells in the dry mixture. Pour oil, vinegar, and vanilla into separate wells. Add water and mix until smooth.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool in the pan before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This cake is dairy-free and egg-free.
- Pair with powdered sugar, whipped coconut cream, or dairy-free frosting.
- Recipe can be doubled for a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
