Gingerbread Pudding Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to your table, then this Gingerbread Pudding Cake is just the thing. This recipe has a special place in my heart because it combines the cozy flavors of gingerbread with the irresistible charm of a warm pudding cake. Picture yourself serving this to friends or family during chilly evenings, and watch their faces light up with joy as they enjoy each spoonful.

This cake is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also great for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, where it can easily impress guests without requiring elaborate preparation. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Gingerbread Pudding Cake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert in no time!
• One-bowl wonder: Most of the mixing happens in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfectly moist: The magic of this cake lies in its ability to create its own caramel sauce while baking, resulting in a wonderfully moist texture.
• Family-friendly flavors: The warm spices and sweet applesauce are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead suitable: You can prep it ahead of time for those busy days and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home! This recipe calls for pantry staples that come together to create a scrumptious Gingerbread Pudding Cake.

For the Batter

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup apple cider (not apple cider vinegar)
• 1/3 cup water

Variations

This Gingerbread Pudding Cake is flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice to switch up the flavor profile.
• Make it fruity: Add diced apples or pears into the batter for an extra fruity twist.
• Top it off: Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. Mixing these dry ingredients together helps distribute the leavening agents so your cake rises beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, vegetable oil, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture creates a rich base that will hold everything together.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your cake tender!

Step 5: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Pour the batter into an 8×11-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish. Spread it out evenly as this helps with even cooking.

Step 6: Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over your batter.

Step 7: Add Liquids Carefully

Now for some magic! Pour the apple cider and water over the top of the sugars. Remember—do NOT stir! This layering will create that luscious caramel sauce as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Until Set

Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the middle is set. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s heavenly!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, let your Gingerbread Pudding Cake cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This short wait allows everything to settle beautifully!

Enjoy every bite of this warm and comforting treat!

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure that your Gingerbread Pudding Cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can elevate the flavor of your cake significantly. They provide a stronger aroma and taste, making each bite more delicious.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the cake to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set properly and makes serving easier. It also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add nuts or dried fruits to the sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done!
• Store leftovers wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain moisture and keeps the cake fresh for days.

How to Serve Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Serving Gingerbread Pudding Cake is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance its warm, comforting flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dessert even more special!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy texture that complements the spicy gingerbread perfectly.
• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top introduces a crunchy contrast that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm pudding cake, making each bite heavenly.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling some store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cake with bright, fresh flavors. Consider using seasonal fruits like apples and pears.
• Spiced tea or coffee: Serve with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy experience that complements the aromatic spices in your dessert.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Gingerbread Pudding Cake will be not only delicious but also a showstopper at any gathering! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gingerbread Pudding Cake is not just a delightful treat for special occasions; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making it a convenient dessert option to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cake cool fully.
• Wrap individual servings in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or use an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat individual portions, microwave on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• For larger portions, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Gingerbread Pudding Cake that might help you out!

Can I make Gingerbread Pudding Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve when you need it.

What makes this Gingerbread Pudding Cake so special?

This recipe is unique because it creates its own caramel sauce while baking! The combination of spices and applesauce gives it a wonderfully moist texture that everyone will love.

Can I substitute ingredients in Gingerbread Pudding Cake?

Yes! You can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if needed. Applesauce can also be replaced with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Gingerbread Pudding Cake is done?

The cake is done when the middle is set and no longer jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Gingerbread Pudding Cake as I do! It’s truly a comforting dessert that brings warmth to any gathering or quiet evening at home. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy baking!