Gingerbread Cake Recipe

Description

This Gingerbread Cake is a warm, spiced dessert that’s moist, fluffy, and packed with deep molasses and ginger flavors. It’s perfect for the holidays, served with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or a dollop of vanilla ice cream. The balance of spices—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—creates a comforting and festive treat that’s easy to make and loved by all.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup unsulphured molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Molasses and Egg

Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 6: Add Hot Water

Slowly pour in the hot water while mixing. The batter will be thin, but this helps create a moist cake.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Cake

✔ Use fresh spices – The stronger the spices, the better the flavor!
✔ Don’t overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
✔ Use hot water – It helps dissolve the molasses and creates a moist texture.
✔ Let it rest – The flavors deepen as the cake sits, making it taste even better the next day.
✔ Add toppings – A dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a dollop of cream cheese frosting makes it even more delicious.

Servings

• Makes 9 large squares or 12 smaller pieces

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 260
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 30g

(Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Health Benefits of Gingerbread Cake

✅ Good for digestion – Ginger can help with nausea and digestion.
✅ Rich in antioxidants – Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg have powerful antioxidant properties.
✅ Energy boost – Molasses provides iron and B vitamins for natural energy.
✅ Mood-lifting – The warm spices can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week.

2. Can I freeze gingerbread cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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

Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for the ground ginger for a more intense flavor.

4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

5. What can I serve with gingerbread cake?

Try it with:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• Lemon glaze
• Cream cheese frosting
• Caramel sauce

Enjoy baking this classic Gingerbread Cake, and let the festive flavors bring warmth to your home! Let me know if you have any other questions. 😊🎂