When the air turns chilly and the holiday spirit fills the atmosphere, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma and flavors of gingerbread. The combination of warm spices, molasses, and a moist cake texture creates a dessert that is both nostalgic and irresistible. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to embark on a culinary journey with this delectable gingerbread cake recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup hot water
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until well combined. Stir in the molasses until thoroughly incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the hot water. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an added touch, you can sprinkle some ground cinnamon or decorate with gingerbread cookies.
- Slice, serve, and relish in the warm and comforting flavors of gingerbread. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family dinners, or simply as a treat to enjoy during the colder months.
The gingerbread cake’s rich and aromatic spices combined with the velvety cream cheese frosting create a dessert that embodies the essence of the season. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, evoking memories of joyful celebrations and cherished traditions. So, gather your loved ones, brew a cup of hot cocoa, and indulge in the magic of gingerbread. Whether it’s enjoyed after a festive meal or as a sweet snack on a cozy evening, this gingerbread cake is sure to bring comfort and joy to all who savor its deliciousness.
