Golden Spice Loaf Cakes are the kind of baked treat that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. With a moist, tender crumb and a caramelized top that hints at brown sugar and spice, these loaves are perfect for slicing and sharing—or wrapping up as edible gifts. The batter is rich with eggs, oil, and yogurt or buttermilk, giving it a soft texture that stays fresh for days. A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla adds depth, while optional add-ins like chopped nuts, raisins, or grated apple make each loaf unique.
Baked in individual foil pans, these loaves are ideal for batch baking. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday dinner, a bake sale, or simply stocking your freezer with something comforting, this recipe delivers. Serve warm with a pat of butter, drizzle with glaze, or enjoy plain with a cup of chai or coffee. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and deeply satisfying.
🧺 INGREDIENTS: (Yields 3 medium loaf cakes)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup raisins or chopped dates
- 1 grated apple or mashed banana
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease or line three medium-sized foil loaf pans. Place them on a baking tray for easy handling.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in yogurt (or buttermilk) and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine & Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using add-ins like nuts, fruit, or grated apple, fold them in gently.
Step 5: Fill & Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared loaf pans. Smooth the tops. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks. Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired.
🍽️ Tips & Variations:
- Glaze Option: Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp milk and drizzle over cooled loaves.
- Spice Boost: Add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap cooled loaves in parchment and twine for a rustic, homemade gift.
