Warmly spiced spice cake with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is a comforting, aromatic family dessert. This moist, old-fashioned classic is perfect for autumn baking and holiday celebrations.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the base with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to evenly distribute the spices.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes at medium speed.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing fully between additions, then blend in the vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry flour mixture and milk to the creamed butter, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 28-32 minutes, until the cake springs back when touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to finish cooling before serving.