Spiced Parsnip Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something truly magical about turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Spiced Parsnip Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is one of those recipes that took me by surprise. I’ll be honest, parsnips weren’t exactly on my radar until I was looking for a new way to shake up dessert night. I wanted something earthy yet sweet, something that felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening—and this cake delivered. The first time I made it, I wasn’t sure how my family would feel about a “parsnip” dessert. But as soon as that warm, spiced aroma filled the kitchen, I knew I had a winner. My kids, who are usually suspicious of anything “vegetable,” polished off their slices and asked for seconds!

What I love most about this cake is its perfect balance of moist, spiced crumb and the creamy tang of the frosting. It’s like carrot cake’s more sophisticated cousin. Whether it’s a casual weekday treat or the star of a holiday dessert table, this cake fits the bill. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make. If you’ve been craving something cozy, a little unexpected, and completely delightful, this recipe might just become a new favorite in your home, too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use carrots instead of parsnips?
Yes! Carrots work as a great substitute if you prefer their sweeter flavor.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and the results will still be delicious.

What spices are best for this cake?
A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives this cake its warm, spiced flavor.

What You Need to Make Spiced Parsnip Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

2 cups grated parsnips (about 2 medium-sized)

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

3 large eggs

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special Tools:

Box grater or food processor

9×9-inch baking pan

Hand mixer or stand mixer

How to Make Spiced Parsnip Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Prep Your Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Bring It All Together: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the grated parsnips.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Make the Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.

Assemble: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for garnish if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Spiced Parsnip Cake

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Grate Finely: Use the fine side of your grater to ensure the parsnips blend seamlessly into the batter.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs, cream cheese, and butter come to room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.

Add Texture: Fold in chopped nuts or raisins for extra flavor and texture.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This cake was amazing! I made it for a family dinner, and everyone loved it. Even the kids!” – Sarah K.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious, but I think I’ll add a little more ginger next time for extra spice.” – Jamie P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So moist and flavorful! The cream cheese frosting is the perfect touch.” – Emily R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I used carrots instead of parsnips and it worked beautifully.” – David M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for a holiday dessert! I’ll be making this again.” – Linda T.

Printable Recipe

Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts

Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake

Easy Molasses Sugar Cookies

Smothered Hamburger Steak

Make Delicious Ice Cream in a Bag in Just 15 Minutes

If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

Sharing recipes is one of my favorite ways to connect with others. If this Spiced Parsnip Cake brought a little joy to your table, why not share the love? Snap a photo, tag your friends, or post it on social media with #SpicedParsnipCake. Food is meant to be shared, and I’d love to see how your cake turned out. Let’s keep spreading the joy of baking!