Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Hey there! I’m Mateo, your friendly home cook, and today I’m excited to share a recipe that’s close to my heart: Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. This cake is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing all the comfort and joy of the holiday season into your home. Every time I bake this, I’m reminded of family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and the smell of spices makes everyone feel right at home. It’s the kind of recipe that connects generations, and I can’t wait to pass it on to you.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This Gingerbread Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

• Perfect for Family Gatherings: This cake’s rich, spicy aroma is sure to draw everyone to the kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to bring the family together. The smell alone is enough to create a sense of anticipation and warmth that only a homemade cake can provide.
• Easy to Make: With everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can whip up this delicious cake. The recipe is forgiving and allows room for a bit of error, making it perfect for those new to baking.
• Comfort in Every Bite: The combination of gingerbread spices and the creamy frosting creates a nostalgic, comforting taste that feels like home. Each bite is a reminder of cozy evenings by the fireplace, surrounded by loved ones.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy family dinner, this cake suits all occasions. It can be dressed up with elegant toppings for a formal event or kept simple for a laid-back family meal.
• Make-Ahead Wonder: You can prepare it in advance, making it stress-free when hosting guests. The flavors deepen and mature when the cake is made a day or two ahead, enhancing the overall taste experience.

The Recipe

Let’s dive right into making this delightful cake!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

Ingredients:

• Cake:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup molasses

• 1 cup hot water

• Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:

  
  
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. You can use parchment paper for extra security against sticking, which will make removing the cake easier once it’s cooled.

2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the spices, a crucial tip for every budding baker. It helps ensure that each bite has a balanced spice flavor.

3. Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important as it incorporates air, which helps the cake rise. Add the egg, mix well, then pour in the molasses and hot water. Stir until smooth. The hot water helps to create a runnier batter, which ensures a moist cake.

4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.

5. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely before frosting. Cooling is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cake.

6. Frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in molasses, cinnamon, and vanilla until the frosting is fluffy. Spread over the cooled cake. For a decorative touch, use a piping bag to create patterns or swirls with the frosting.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this cake, you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: A couple of large bowls for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately. Use glass or metal bowls to avoid any unwanted flavors from absorbing into the batter.
• Whisk: Essential for combining dry ingredients evenly. A balloon whisk works best for thorough mixing.
• Electric Mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze. A stand mixer can be particularly helpful if you plan to make this cake often.
• Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan works perfectly. Ensure it’s greased well to avoid the cake sticking.
• Spatula: For smooth frosting application. A silicone spatula will help you scrape every bit of batter and frosting from the bowls.
• Cooling Rack: To cool the cake evenly before frosting. This allows air to circulate and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a special role:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cake, resulting in a tender crumb. It is versatile and works well for most cakes.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg): These spices are the heart of the gingerbread flavor, offering warmth and depth. They create a complex flavor profile that makes gingerbread unique.
• Molasses: Adds moisture and richness, giving the cake its signature dark color and robust taste. Learn more about molasses. It is an essential ingredient for an authentic gingerbread flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the molasses flavor and adds a caramel note. It also helps keep the cake moist.
• Cream Cheese: The tangy, creamy base of the frosting that complements the spiced cake beautifully. It balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar, adding a slight tang that cuts through the richness.

What to Serve With This Cake

This gingerbread cake pairs wonderfully with:

• Warm Beverages: Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat. The spices in the cake are perfectly complemented by these warm drinks.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side adds a delightful contrast. The cold, creamy texture pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can enhance the cake’s flavors further. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top.

For more pairing ideas, check out my Spiced Apple Cider recipe on mateorecipes.blog.

Storage & Leftover Tips

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The frosting will firm up, but the cake remains delicious. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent it from drying out.
• Freeze: You can freeze unfrosted cake slices for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. This method helps preserve the cake’s moisture and flavor.
• Reheat: To enjoy, let the cake come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel. If you prefer a warm slice, 10-15 seconds in the microwave should do the trick.

For storing frosting separately, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When ready to use, let it soften at room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore its creaminess.

By following these tips, you can enjoy this cake whenever the craving strikes. For more scrumptious family recipes, don’t miss my Classic Lasagna.

In conclusion, this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a heartwarming, family-friendly dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just making an ordinary day special, this cake is a surefire way to bring smiles to the table. Happy baking, and remember, every recipe is a new adventure in the kitchen. Enjoy!

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