Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread Cake is a moist, spiced cake filled with the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a creamy glaze, this classic cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat on a chilly day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with warm spices and rich molasses flavor
• Super moist and fluffy texture
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holiday desserts or wintertime snacking
• Pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or vanilla ice cream

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar
• Whipped cream
• Cream cheese frosting
• Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or a 9-inch square pan for a thicker cake.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   • Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the molasses until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the hot water, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
6. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
   • Dust with powdered sugar or add your favorite frosting. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Orange Gingerbread Cake: Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
• Glazed Gingerbread Cake: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the cake with a layer of rich cream cheese frosting for a delicious contrast.
• Gingerbread Cupcakes: Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.
• Chocolate Chip Addition: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey spin.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, gingerbread cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

2. Can I use blackstrap molasses?

Blackstrap molasses is more intense and slightly bitter. It can be used, but the flavor will be stronger. Regular molasses is recommended for a more balanced taste.

3. How do I make this cake more moist?

Ensure not to overbake the cake and consider adding a dollop of sour cream or applesauce to the batter for extra moisture.

4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

5. What can I serve with gingerbread cake?

It pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

6. Can I add raisins or nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Add 1/2 cup of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra texture.

7. Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, but reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger.

8. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well and consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

9. Can I use a bundt pan for this recipe?

Yes, bake in a well-greased bundt pan for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

10. How do I add more spice flavor?

Increase the ginger and cinnamon, or add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a bolder flavor.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cake is a warm and comforting dessert that brings festive flavor to your holiday celebrations or any winter day. With its perfect blend of spices and moist, tender crumb, this cake is sure to be a hit. Whether you enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with frosting, this gingerbread cake is an easy and delicious way to bring a cozy, nostalgic treat to your table.

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