Gingerbread Cake: A Cozy Holiday Delight
Imagine the aroma of warm spices wafting through your home, filling every room with an irresistible warmth that instantly transports you to cherished holiday memories. This Gingerbread Cake encapsulates that feeling, combining rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses into a moist, tender dessert that’s perfect for both celebrations and cozy nights in. Preparing this delightful cake is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a fast, nostalgic treat that your kids will love, and that will leave your guests begging for seconds. So why not turn your kitchen into a winter wonderland and indulge in this sweet, heartwarming recipe?
What’s Your Favorite Holiday Treat?
What dessert brings you back to childhood, warming your heart with every bite? Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re gathered around the table with loved ones, laughter filling the air as you share dessert. The sweet and spicy notes of gingerbread cake mingle with the voices of family as you all dive in with gleeful anticipation. This Gingerbread Cake promises to be the showstopper of your holiday spread—will you savor it with a dollop of whipped cream, or are you thinking of a scoop of ice cream on the side? Whatever your preference, this cake ensures delightful moments around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Gingerbread Cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s the epitome of holiday joy. Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
Easy Prep: Even in the busiest of seasons, this cake whips up in no time, giving you more moments to enjoy with family and friends.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of spices and moist cake is sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create something magical without running to the store.
Nostalgic Flavor: The combination of ginger and molasses will transport you back to the coziness of childhood holidays.
Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it plain, paired with whipped cream, or dressed up with ice cream for an indulgent twist.
Ingredients
To create this delectable Gingerbread Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses
- 1 cup boiling water
- Whipped cream, for serving
These ingredients blend together to create a beautiful medley of flavors that evoke the essence of holiday baking, each playing a vital role in delivering that warm, inviting taste we all adore.
Timing
You could easily make this Gingerbread Cake for a quick after-school treat, or you might want to take your time and enjoy the luxurious experience of baking—savoring each step as the enticing aroma fills your home. This cake bakes in just 30 to 40 minutes, but the love and care you put into it will be a cherished part of the experience too!
Step-by-Step
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9-inch by 9-inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well-combined. Let your senses burst with the sweet-scented spices.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat together the room temperature butter and brown sugar until the mix turns creamy and lightens in color.
Next, add the egg, honey, and molasses, continuing to beat until everything is perfectly combined.
Gently fold in the dry mixture from the medium bowl until no flour streaks remain. Then, with every drop of anticipation, pour in the boiling water and stir until the batter is silky smooth.
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, and with eager excitement, place it in the oven.
Bake the cake until it rises, feels firm to the touch, and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30 to 40 minutes.
Once baked, let it cool entirely. When ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to lift the cake from the pan and transfer it to a stunning platter.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and prepare for your taste buds to embark on a delightful journey!
Nutritional Information
Indulging in this Gingerbread Cake is a delightful treat, but it’s important to be mindful of nutritional details. Each slice can have around 290 calories, making it a perfect occasional indulgence. Pair it with some fresh fruit or even a hot cup of tea to balance the sweetness while enjoying a classic holiday favorite.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten up this Gingerbread Cake a bit without sacrificing flavor, consider these healthier options:
- Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to decrease fat content.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Swap out brown sugar for coconut sugar or use a sugar substitute, bringing down the sweetness level.
Serving Suggestions
This Gingerbread Cake is incredibly versatile! Serve it plain for a simple, delightful dessert or elevate your experience with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra richness. This cake is perfect for both holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners, enhancing every occasion!
Common Mistakes
While everyone loves a slice of delicious Gingerbread Cake, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Overbaking: Ensure to test with a toothpick early to prevent a dry cake. It should spring back lightly when touched.
Texture Issues: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. This can lead to a dense cake.
Messy Pan Removal: Let it cool completely and use the parchment overhang to gently lift it out to avoid sticky situations!
Storing Tips
Keeping your Gingerbread Cake fresh is easy! Store leftover portions in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To enjoy it longer, consider freezing portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, simply thaw and warm gently in the oven or microwave!
Temptation Awaits
Don’t let the opportunity to create this Gingerbread Cake slip away. It’s the perfect indulgent dessert for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or simply for cozy nights at home. Its rich flavors and festive scent are reasons enough to preheat that oven and whisk together the ingredients for your next sweet celebration. Bake it ASAP and let joyous moments unfold in your kitchen!
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it a day ahead and let it cool completely before covering it tightly.Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! A gluten-free all-purpose blend should work well as a substitute.How do I know when the cake is done?
Use a toothpick or skewer in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Feel free to stir in some chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Microwave slices for a few seconds or pop individual portions into a warm oven until heated through.
Now it’s time for you to make some kitchen magic! Enjoy this delightful Gingerbread Cake!
Print
Gingerbread Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and delightful gingerbread cake, perfect for holiday celebrations and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses
- 1 cup boiling water
- Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9-inch by 9-inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the room temperature butter and brown sugar until creamy and lightened in color.
- Add the egg, honey, and molasses, continuing to beat until well combined.
- Fold in the dry mixture until no flour streaks remain, then pour in the boiling water and stir until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before removing from the pan using the parchment overhang. Serve topped with whipped cream.
Notes
For lighter options, consider substituting half the butter with unsweetened applesauce, using whole wheat flour, or replacing brown sugar with coconut sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
