Gingerbread Cake

This festive Gingerbread Cake recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. It’s soft, moist, and generously spiced with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and molasses. Perfect for Christmas gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake is frosted with a creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor – The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting taste that’s synonymous with the holidays.
• Moist and Tender Texture – Using applesauce and molasses ensures each bite is soft and moist.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Christmas or a winter celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Versatile Frosting Options – While the cinnamon cream cheese frosting is amazing, you can easily customize it to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Gingerbread Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results while making this delicious dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Two 8-inch cake pans
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk – Helps in blending dry and wet ingredients smoothly for a lump-free batter.
• Oven – Provides consistent heat to bake the cake evenly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make this delicious Gingerbread Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (melted)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup whole milk

For the Frosting

• 12 oz (1 1/2 packages) cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 6 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Gingerbread Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease two 8-inch cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
* all-purpose flour
* baking soda
* ground cinnamon
* ground ginger
* nutmeg
* ground cloves
* salt

Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, combine:
* molasses
* melted butter
* granulated sugar

Add in:
* applesauce
* egg
* vanilla extract

Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Mix Together

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients while alternating with:
* vegetable oil
* whole milk

Continue to mix until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cake layers to cool completely in their pans before frosting!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your wonderful Gingerbread Cake!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread Cake is perfect for festive gatherings and holiday celebrations. Its rich spices and sweet frosting make it a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your gingerbread experience.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of gingerbread cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy it as a cozy afternoon snack.

With Fresh Fruit

• Top your gingerbread cake with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The fruity tartness complements the sweetness of the cake.

A La Mode

• Serve a slice warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and cold temperature balance the spiced cake perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add an indulgent touch by drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice. This adds extra sweetness, making it even more decadent.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top makes for a beautiful presentation and adds lightness to the rich flavors of the cake.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cake

Perfecting your Gingerbread Cake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for better emulsification and texture.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife to avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to wet. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
• Test for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is properly baked.
• Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack, ensuring that they hold their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cake

Pairing side dishes with Gingerbread Cake enhances its flavors and creates a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apples: Warmed spiced apples provide a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness, making it an excellent match.
3. Roasted Nuts: Serve mixed roasted nuts on the side for added crunch and flavor—choose walnuts or pecans for extra warmth.
4. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy vanilla yogurt offers a smooth contrast that pairs nicely with the spices in the gingerbread.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings out seasonal flavors while providing a savory option alongside dessert.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for an unexpected yet delightful pairing with your sweet treat.
7. Chai Tea: A cup of spiced chai tea enhances the overall experience by echoing the flavors in the gingerbread cake.
8. Hot Chocolate: For extra comfort, serve hot chocolate topped with whipped cream as an indulgent drink alongside your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Gingerbread Cake can be delightful, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor. Always check the expiration date on your ground spices like cinnamon and ginger.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt. Allow your layers to cool completely before frosting.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold affects baking time. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Gingerbread Cake

• Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Gingerbread Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Gingerbread Cake to help you bake the perfect dessert.

What is Gingerbread Cake?

Gingerbread Cake is a spiced dessert made with molasses and warm spices like ginger and cinnamon. It’s moist and flavorful, perfect for holidays.

Can I make Gingerbread Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings.

How should I frost my Gingerbread Cake?

A cinnamon cream cheese frosting complements this cake beautifully. Spread evenly between layers and on top after the cake has cooled completely.

What variations can I try with Gingerbread Cake?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to customize your Gingerbread Cake. Experimenting with flavors keeps it interesting!

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cake is a festive treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Its soft texture and rich spices make it irresistible, while customization options allow you to make it uniquely yours. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful flavors!