Indulging in a slice of moist and flavorful gingerbread cake is a quintessential part of the winter holiday experience. Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting isn’t just a treat; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The combination of spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves—creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and entices everyone who walks by. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, making it an ideal dessert for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any chilly day you want to celebrate with loved ones.
The magic of this recipe lies not only in its delightful flavor but also in its simplicity. It uses versatile ingredients that are often staples in most households, allowing you to whip up this dessert with ease. The rich cinnamon molasses cream cheese frosting takes it from delicious to absolutely divine, adding a creamy texture and a hint of spice that perfectly complements the cake beneath. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a centerpiece at your dinner table, this gingerbread cake is bound to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cake
- Irresistible Flavors: Infused with warming spices, each bite is comforting and festive.
- Perfect Texture: The cake is moist, tender, and ideal for layering, creating a stunning dessert.
- Rich Frosting: The cinnamon molasses cream cheese frosting adds a delightful sweetness and richness.
- Easy to Make: Suitable for both novice and experienced bakers, requiring common ingredients.
- Versatile for Celebrations: Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or any special occasion.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious world of baking this gingerbread cake, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen efficiently. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. You will need:
- Three 8-inch round cake pans to create a layered effect.
- Mixing bowls, one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet.
- A whisk for blending the dry ingredients and an electric mixer for perfectly combining the frosting elements.
- Optional: Parchment paper to line your cake pans to make the cake lifting easier after baking.
Ensuring your workspace is clean and organized helps prevent any mix-ups and allows for more enjoyable baking. Once everything is in place, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delightful aroma of gingerbread!
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take your three 8-inch cake pans and grease them with unsalted butter or a non-stick spray. For extra assurance, sprinkle some flour in the pans to prevent the cake from sticking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper also helps in easy cake removal later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of the spices throughout the cake, contributing to a uniformly warm flavor profile that defines this gingerbread cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a light and fluffy consistency, which usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Once creamed, add the unsulfured molasses and mix until it is smooth and well incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add in the large egg, mixing until fully combined. It’s crucial to ensure that the egg is at room temperature for easier mixing. Lower your mixer speed and start alternating additions of the dry ingredient mix and the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter — a common mistake that can lead to a dense cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one of the layers. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to be removed. Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake layers cool, you can whip up the delightful frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Then, add the molasses, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until well blend. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until the frosting reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. If it feels too soft, refrigerating it for a bit will help firm it up.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once your cake layers are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble. Place one layer on your serving plate and generously spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat this for the second layer, topping it off with the final third layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a beautiful, smooth finish. If you want to elevate the presentation, decorate with piped frosting swirls and a sprinkle of cinnamon or brown sugar for an extra festive flair.
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated carrots or pumpkin puree for added moisture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment by adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a better mixing result.
- If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the brown sugar slightly without affecting the overall balance.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Pair with a warm cup of spiced tea or hot cocoa for a cozy winter experience.
Tips
- To make the cake ahead of time, bake the layers and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating or freezing.
- For an even thicker frosting, add an extra half cup of powdered sugar as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the gingerbread layers in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap in plastic and store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese or a whipped coconut cream. Just note that the flavor and texture may slightly differ.
How should I store leftovers?
store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigeration is recommended.
Conclusion
This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful holiday treat that will surely impress anyone who takes a bite. The combination of spices and the creamy frosting creates a perfect balance that makes this cake irresistible. Whether for a festive gathering or an everyday dessert, it’s a recipe that resonates with warmth and joy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, and feel free to share your experiences in the comments. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the sweet scent of gingerbread!
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Moist Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful holiday treat that will surely impress anyone who takes a bite.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take your three 8-inch cake pans and grease them with unsalted butter or a non-stick spray. For extra assurance, sprinkle some flour in the pans to prevent the cake from sticking. Lining the bottoms with parchment paper also helps in easy cake removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of the spices throughout the cake, contributing to a uniformly warm flavor profile that defines this gingerbread cake.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a light and fluffy consistency, which usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Once creamed, add the unsulfured molasses and mix until it is smooth and well incorporated.
- Add in the large egg, mixing until fully combined. It’s crucial to ensure that the egg is at room temperature for easier mixing. Lower your mixer speed and start alternating additions of the dry ingredient mix and the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter — a common mistake that can lead to a dense cake.
- Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one of the layers. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to be removed. Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cake layers cool, you can whip up the delightful frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Then, add the molasses, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until well blend. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until the frosting reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. If it feels too soft, refrigerating it for a bit will help firm it up.
- Once your cake layers are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble. Place one layer on your serving plate and generously spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat this for the second layer, topping it off with the final third layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a beautiful, smooth finish. If you want to elevate the presentation, decorate with piped frosting swirls and a sprinkle of cinnamon or brown sugar for an extra festive flair.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a better mixing result.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Protein: 4 g