Irresistible Gingerbread Cake Recipe for Cozy Winter Days

Gingerbread cake is like a warm hug on a chilly winter day, enticing you with its sweet and spicy aroma. The moment you take a bite, the rich, molasses-infused flavor dances on your taste buds while hints of cinnamon and nutmeg swirl around you like a cozy blanket.

This delightful dessert brings back memories of holiday gatherings, where laughter mingled with the scent of freshly baked goodies. Picture yourself surrounded by friends and family, each slice of gingerbread cake topped with a dollop of whipped cream, as smiles spread across faces. It’s the perfect treat for festive occasions or simply to brighten a gloomy day.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cake, providing structure and texture.
• Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor with its caramel-like notes.
• Molasses: A key ingredient that gives the cake its characteristic richness and dark color.
• Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger may be tempting, but ground ginger offers that classic gingerbread flavor we all adore.
• Cinnamon: This spice is essential for creating warmth and familiarity in every bite.

For the Topping:

• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream perfectly complements the dense cake for a delightful contrast.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a rectangular baking pan to ensure your cake slides out like a dream.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures that all those delicious spices get evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together brown sugar, molasses, vegetable oil, eggs, and hot water until smooth. This mixture should look like liquid gold – rich and inviting!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix or your cake might turn out tougher than your grandma’s old boots!

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine by this point!

Step 6: Serve

Let your gingerbread cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Top with whipped cream before cutting into squares. Transfer to plates for serving; trust me—everyone will want seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then cream together butter and sugar before adding eggs. Gradually mix in dry ingredients and molasses for a perfectly spiced batter. Pour into a greased pan and bake until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out molasses for maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also elevate the presentation—voilà, dessert chic!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to warm them without drying out.

I remember the first time I made this gingerbread cake; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! Their smiles were worth every minute spent baking, and it became our go-to dessert for holiday gatherings ever since.

FAQs:

What are the essential ingredients for Gingerbread Cake?

To make a delightful Gingerbread Cake, you will need essential ingredients like all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, sugar, molasses, eggs, and butter. These components create a rich and flavorful cake. The combination of spices not only adds warmth but also provides that traditional gingerbread taste. Freshly grated ginger can enhance the flavor even more. Remember to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

How long does it take to bake Gingerbread Cake?

The baking time for Gingerbread Cake typically ranges from 30 to 40 minutes at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it approaches the 30-minute mark. Proper timing ensures a moist texture without drying out.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Gingerbread Cake! To maintain its moisture and flavor, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn and preserves its deliciousness. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the cake at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What variations can I try with Gingerbread Cake?

There are numerous delightful variations you can explore with Gingerbread Cake. Consider adding chocolate chips for a sweeter touch or incorporating nuts for added texture. You might also experiment by using different spices like cardamom or cloves to alter the flavor profile. For a festive twist, try topping it with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

Conclusion for Gingerbread Cake:

In summary, making a delicious Gingerbread Cake involves combining simple yet flavorful ingredients such as spices and molasses. The baking process takes around 30 to 40 minutes and results in a fragrant dessert perfect for any occasion. With options to freeze or customize your cake with various toppings and mix-ins, this recipe remains versatile and enjoyable year-round. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up, Gingerbread Cake is sure to delight your taste buds!

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Gingerbread Cake

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Cozy up with this spiced gingerbread cake, perfect for gatherings or festive celebrations. Every bite brings warmth and cheer, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup hot water
• Whipped cream (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a rectangular baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, blend the brown sugar, molasses, vegetable oil, eggs, and hot water until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve with whipped cream on top.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For an adventurous twist, try substituting molasses with maple syrup or adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness. Enhance presentation by dusting with powdered sugar before serving. This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. You can freeze leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.