Gingerbread cake is a delightful treat that dances on your taste buds with its warm spices and sweet aroma, bringing the essence of the holiday season into any day of the year. Picture this: a moist, spiced cake topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, filling your kitchen with scents that make you feel like you’ve just stepped into Santa’s workshop.
Every bite of this gingerbread cake feels like a cozy hug from grandma, evoking memories of holiday gatherings where laughter echoed and delicious aromas wafted through the air. This cake is perfect for festive occasions, casual get-togethers, or even when you simply want to sprinkle some joy into an ordinary Tuesday. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This gingerbread cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- Its rich flavor profile combines warmth and sweetness in every slice
- The visual appeal of this cake topped with creamy frosting will impress any guest
- Whether served as dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, it’s versatile enough for any occasion
I still remember the first time I baked this gingerbread cake; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it, and I felt like a baking rock star!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it well to avoid lumps in your batter.
Ground Ginger: Choose high-quality ginger for that warm, spicy kick that defines gingerbread.
Ground Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth; always use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor.
Baking Powder: Helps your cake rise nicely; make sure it’s not expired for optimal fluffiness.
Sugar: A mix of brown sugar and granulated sugar provides sweetness and moisture to the cake.
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to create a light texture in your batter.
Molasses: Adds rich flavor and moisture; opt for unsulfured molasses for the best results.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist; you can also use melted butter if you prefer a richer taste.
Cream Cheese: Perfect for frosting; choose full-fat cream cheese for a smooth, rich finish.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens your frosting while providing a silky texture; sift it before mixing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure easy removal after baking.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and sugar until fully blended. The aroma will start making your mouth water.
Melt Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, molasses, and vegetable oil until smooth. This mixture should be glossy and inviting.
Mix Wet into Dry: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix; we want our cake fluffy!
Bake Your Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Create Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cake cools, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy. Spread this dreamy frosting generously over your cooled gingerbread cake.
With these simple steps, you’re well on your way to creating an irresistible gingerbread cake that will delight friends and family alike! Enjoy each slice accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate experience!
You Must Know
- Gingerbread cake is not just a holiday treat; it’s a cozy hug in dessert form
- The warm spices and rich aroma fill the kitchen, making every bake feel like a festive celebration, regardless of the season
- Perfect for gatherings or enjoying solo with tea
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients first to ensure even distribution of spices. While that’s happening, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy, then gradually add eggs and molasses. This sequence keeps everything light and airy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Experimenting makes each gingerbread cake special and personal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; this will bring back its delightful warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect gingerbread cake, always measure your ingredients accurately; too much flour can lead to dryness
- Let your cake cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting
- Lastly, make sure to use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact—trust me, it makes a difference!
I still remember the first time I made gingerbread cake for my family; their faces lit up as they took their first bites—definitely a moment I cherish!
FAQ
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger in gingerbread cake?
Yes, you can use fresh ginger, but adjust the quantity since it’s more potent.
What can I serve with gingerbread cake?
Gingerbread cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How do I know when my gingerbread cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when ready.
Gingerbread Cake
Gingerbread cake is a festive delight that captures the essence of the holiday season with its warm spices and sweet aroma. This moist cake, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, every slice transports you to a world of delightful flavors and cherished memories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and sugars until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, molasses, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients; stir gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy; spread over cooled cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
