1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
3. Add melted butter and oil; stir to combine.
4. Mix in molasses, then eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream; stir until batter is smooth.
5. Slowly add hot water or milk, mixing until fully incorporated.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
7. Bake for 28–34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean.
8. Let cakes cool in pans for 10–20 minutes; then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
9. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add brown sugar or powdered sugar gradually, mixing well.
10. Add vanilla, salt, optional spices, or lemon juice to frosting and mix.
11. If frosting is too thick, add cream or milk a teaspoon at a time.
12. Assemble cake by spreading frosting between each layer and over the top and sides.