Gingerbread Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. This cake is simple to make and is bursting with cozy spices, making it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just want a sweet pick-me-up, Gingerbread Cake is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s customizable – add your favorite toppings or enjoy it plain for a classic dessert.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 200mg
Why Make Gingerbread Cake
Gingerbread Cake is not just delicious; it is packed with spices that are known for their health benefits. Ginger, cinnamon, and other warm spices can help boost your immune system and even aid digestion. This cake is also wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy it as a dessert or even pair it with coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
How to Make Gingerbread Cake Step by Step
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup molasses
3 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream cheese frosting (to taste)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add molasses, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool, then frost with cream cheese frosting.
How to Serve Gingerbread Cake
Gingerbread Cake can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert, or serve it alongside a cup of steaming coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. It also pairs wonderfully with a light salad, balancing out the sweetness of the cake with fresh flavors.
How to Store Gingerbread Cake
To store your Gingerbread Cake, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Gingerbread Cake
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stop once the dry ingredients are just incorporated.
- For a fun twist, sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Experiment with different spices based on your preference, like adding cardamom or allspice.
Delicious Variations of Gingerbread Cake
Try making a spicy version by adding extra ginger and pepper for some heat. A citrus-infused variant can include orange zest for a refreshing twist. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply replace the eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, making it equally delicious.
Conclusion
Try your hand at making Gingerbread Cake today! With its delightful flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you customize it with your favorite toppings or enjoy it simply with frosting, this cake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.
Gingerbread Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup molasses
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- to taste cream cheese frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add molasses, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool, then frost with cream cheese frosting.
