Gingerbread Cake Recipe
Gingerbread Cake is a classic dessert that embodies the warm and comforting flavors of ginger, molasses, and spices.
This cake is perfect for the holiday season but can be enjoyed year-round for its rich aroma and nostalgic appeal.
With its moist texture and robust flavor, Gingerbread Cake is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Follow this recipe to learn how to make a delicious Gingerbread Cake that will fill your home with delightful scents and warm hearts with its taste.
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup hot water
For the Optional Lemon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Optional Garnish
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
How to Make
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4: Add Molasses and Hot Water
Mix in the molasses until well combined.
Gradually add the hot water to the batter, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Optional Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
Step 9: Glaze the Cake (Optional)
Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the cake.
Garnish with lemon zest, if desired.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice and serve Gingerbread Cake at room temperature.
Optionally, serve slices with whipped cream or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Chef’s Note
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of ground spices according to your taste preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
Molasses: Use unsulfured molasses for a more robust flavor. If you prefer a lighter taste, you can use half molasses and half honey or maple syrup.
Storage: Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Warm briefly in the microwave before serving to enhance flavors.
Variations: Add chopped crystallized ginger or raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Based on 12 Servings)
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 240mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 4g
Key Nutrients
- Vitamin A: 6% DV
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
- Potassium: 10% DV
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. For more accurate nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients and quantities.
Conclusion
Gingerbread Cake is a beloved dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season with its warm spices and rich flavors.
This recipe offers a simple and delicious way to bake a moist and aromatic cake that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Whether served plain, glazed with lemon, or adorned with whipped cream, Gingerbread Cake is sure to evoke feelings of coziness and joy with every bite.
Enjoy the comforting flavors and delightful aroma of Gingerbread Cake throughout the year, and create cherished memories with this timeless dessert!
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