Gingerbread Cake

Name: Gingerbread Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 cup molasses; 2 large eggs

Indulge in the warmth and spice of this delicious gingerbread cake, a classic holiday dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfectly moist and beautifully decorated, this cake combines the flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Ideal for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, it’s a treat that brings the spirit of the season to your table. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup molasses
2 large eggs

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This nutritional breakdown is based on a standard slice size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add molasses and eggs to the butter mixture, mixing well until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cool, frost with your favorite icing or glaze.
Decorate as desired and serve to enjoy this festive treat!

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, substitute honey for molasses for a different sweetness profile. Dairy-free butter can replace regular butter for a vegan version.

Serving and Pairings

This gingerbread cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a warm cup of spiced tea. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover gingerbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

Don’t overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense cake.
Ensure your baking soda is fresh for proper leavening.
Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
Measure ingredients accurately to maintain consistency.
Don’t skip greasing the pan; it helps with easy removal.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground ginger.
Decorate with candied fruits or nuts for a festive touch.
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the gingerbread cake a day in advance. Just store it properly to keep it fresh, and frost it closer to serving time.

What can I use instead of molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives, though they will slightly change the flavor.

Can I add nuts to the gingerbread cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition for extra texture and flavor.

How should I decorate the gingerbread cake?

You can use royal icing, fondant decorations, or even a simple glaze. Get creative with holiday-themed decorations!

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this gingerbread cake freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

Conclusion

Gingerbread cake is a delightful holiday treat that brings warmth and joy to any celebration. With its rich spices and moist texture, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow this simple recipe to create a memorable dessert that embodies the essence of the season!