If you’re searching for a dessert that exudes elegance and warmth, this Elegant Brandy Spice Cake with Candied Oranges will exceed your expectations. The combination of rich brandy, warming spices, and vibrant candied oranges creates a stunning cake that’s perfect for special occasions or indulgent evenings at home.
Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply elevating your afternoon tea, this cake is guaranteed to be a showstopper. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Table of Contents
Why This Spice Cake Recipe Stands Out
This isn’t your average spice cake! Here’s why it deserves a place in your kitchen:
- Sophistication in Every Bite: The addition of high-quality brandy elevates this cake from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a deep, refined flavor.
- Aromatic Spices for a Cozy Vibe: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom gives this cake a warm, festive aroma that’s irresistible.
- Visually Stunning Presentation: The candied orange topping transforms this cake into an edible work of art, perfect for impressing guests.
- Moist and Flavorful: Infused with a brandy syrup, this cake stays delightfully moist and develops an even deeper flavor over time.
The Story Behind This Cake
Brandy and spice cakes have long been a favorite for winter celebrations, as their warm flavors and rich textures pair beautifully with seasonal drinks like mulled wine or coffee. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional holiday baking while adding a modern twist with candied oranges and a hint of luxury from the brandy.
It’s the perfect fusion of rustic comfort and sophisticated flair, making it suitable for both casual gatherings and formal events.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Brandy Spice Cake
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 200 g flour
- 100 g ground almonds
- 150 g brown sugar
- 150 g softened butter
- 3 eggs
- 100 ml brandy
- 50 ml cream
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp cardamom
- A pinch of salt
For the topping:
- 2 organic oranges (thinly sliced)
- 150 g sugar
- 100 ml water
- 2 tbsp brandy
For the cream cheese topping
- 50g soft butter
- 200g cream cheese softened
- 60g fine sugar or more to taste
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Sugar
Preparation:
- Candy the Oranges:
- Simmer orange slices in sugar and water for about 20 minutes. Once tender and translucent, remove and let them cool. Reserve the syrup.
- Make the Batter:
- Cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add brandy and cream, mixing thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, ground almonds, baking powder, spices, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into a greased tin and bake at 175 °C for 50-55 minutes. Test with a skewer for doneness.
- Infuse with Syrup:
- While the cake is still warm, poke small holes into it and drizzle the brandy-infused orange syrup over the top, letting it soak in for extra moisture and flavor.
- Make the frosting:
- Beat the butter and the sugar until fluffy, add the other ingredients and beat 5 more minutes until creamy.
- Decorate:
- Arrange candied oranges on the cake for a dramatic finish. Optional: drizzle with melted chocolate or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and brandy.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality brandy: The better the brandy, the richer the flavor. I use Winery Stift Klosterneuburg St. Laurent XO Brandy in this recipe.
- Prepare ahead of time: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Pair with a drink: Serve with a glass of brandy, mulled wine, or coffee for the ultimate indulgence.
Why Use Brandy in This Recipe?
Brandy adds depth and sophistication to this spice cake. Its rich, complex flavors – often featuring notes of vanilla, oak, and dried fruits – pair beautifully with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It also helps keep the cake moist and enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite more indulgent.
Additionally, brandy elevates this dessert, making it perfect for festive occasions or as an elegant finish to a special meal.
For lovers of barrel-aged brandies, Winery Stift Klosterneuburg offers a true rarity:
St. Laurent XO is a pure distillate from St. Laurent grapes, aged for over 30 years in barrique barrels. The result is a refined and classic brandy with a deep, complex aroma – perfect as a digestif after a fine meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake isn’t just for the holidays—it’s ideal for anniversaries, dinner parties, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Its luxurious combination of flavors and textures makes it a versatile dessert that will impress every time.
So why not treat yourself (and your loved ones) to this decadent dessert? Your kitchen will smell divine, and your taste buds will thank you!
Did you make my elegant spice cake with brandy and candied oranges? Let me know, and tag me on Instagram. Or leave me some kind words and a 5 star rating. I will always be thankful for that 😉.
Warm Hugs Nina ❤️
Looking for more Cake Recipes? How about these.
- 2-layers Mini Chocolate cakes with Raspberries
- No Bake Mascarpone Cheesecake recipe with a Speculoos Crust and Lingonberry Jam Filling
- Divine Red Wine Chocolate Spice Bundt Cake
- White Chocolate Cheesecake with Speculoos cookie base and cranberry compot
- Easy Victoria sponge cake recipe- a family’s favorite
- Lemon Coconut Cheesecake with Meringue kisses
- Sourdough baked cinnamon apples cake – a sourdough discard recipe
This post is sponsored by Winery Stift Klosterneuburg.