Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting: A Spiced, Festive Treat

Ingredients: A Perfect Blend of Spices and Sweetness

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious gingerbread cake and frosting:

For the Gingerbread Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/4 cups to create the base of the cake.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon for leavening.
• Ground Ginger: 1 1/2 teaspoons for that signature ginger flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons for warmth and spice.
• Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon for a deeper, spicy flavor.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened, for moisture and richness.
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed, for sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs to bind the ingredients and give structure.
• Molasses: 1 cup for that rich, deep gingerbread flavor.
• Hot Water: 1 cup to help keep the cake moist.

For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:

• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened, for a creamy base.
• Powdered Sugar: 3-4 cups for sweetness and texture.
• Molasses: 2 tablespoons to enhance the gingerbread flavor in the frosting.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for warmth.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for added flavor.
• Milk or Cream: 2-3 tablespoons to adjust the consistency of the frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

For the Gingerbread Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.

1. Add the Molasses:

• Mix in the molasses until well combined. The batter will be thick and sticky at this stage.

1. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Water:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the hot water. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If baking in two 9-inch pans, check for doneness after 25-30 minutes.

1. Cool the Cake:

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:

1. Cream the Butter:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.

1. Add the Molasses and Cinnamon:

• Beat in the molasses, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.

1. Add the Powdered Sugar:

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. Add the milk or cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency. You want the frosting to be smooth and spreadable but not too runny.

1. Frost the Cake:

• Once the cake is completely cool, spread a thick layer of frosting over the top (and sides, if using round layers). If you’re frosting a layered cake, spread frosting between the layers first, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some holiday sprinkles if desired. Slice and serve!

Variations and Tips

• Make it Spicier: If you love extra spice, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to the cake batter.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: If you prefer, you can substitute the butter frosting with a cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast.
• Add Orange Zest: Adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the frosting or the cake batter will give the dessert a citrusy twist.
• Storing the Cake: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Conclusion: A Festive and Flavorful Treat

This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is the perfect dessert for the holiday season or any special occasion. The warm spices of gingerbread combined with the creamy, cinnamon-infused frosting create a comforting and festive treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a beautifully spiced cake that’s as delicious as it is stunning! Enjoy it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for the perfect indulgence.