Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, this Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting is just the ticket! With its comforting spices and rich flavors, it’s perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to festive holiday celebrations. Trust me, once you take a bite of this delicious cake topped with creamy frosting, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved recipe in my kitchen.

This cake captures all the classic flavors of the season, making it an ideal treat for family gatherings or even as a sweet surprise for friends. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why this delightful dessert will quickly become your favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: The steps are simple and straightforward, making this cake approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the warm spices and sweet frosting—it’s a hit at any table!
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it a day in advance and let the flavors deepen; it’s just as delicious after sitting overnight.
• Versatile: Perfect for holiday parties or casual get-togethers; it fits right in on any dessert table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting:

For the Gingerbread Cake

• 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ cup butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
• ½ cup molasses
• ½ cup corn syrup
• ½ cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 9 ounce milk
• 1 large egg

For the Molasses Frosting

• 4 ounce cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ cup butter (softened)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• 1 ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoon molasses
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: Experiment with cardamom or nutmeg to give it your own twist.
• Swap the frosting: Try a cream cheese frosting or whipped coconut cream if you’re looking for something lighter.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish. While that’s heating up, grab an 8 x 8 baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients well is key because it helps distribute the spices evenly throughout the cake for that wonderful flavor punch!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine cold butter pieces with molasses, corn syrup, and dark brown sugar. Beat until smooth. Then add milk and the egg, mixing until everything is well combined. This mixture will create a moist batter that makes your cake so delicious.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slowly add your dry ingredient mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to a tough cake texture. Remember, we want our gingerbread cake light and fluffy!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your home during baking will be simply irresistible!

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

While your cake cools down, let’s whip up that luscious molasses frosting! In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing well. Finally, mix in vanilla extract and molasses until perfectly blended.

Step 7: Frost Your Cake

Once your gingerbread cake has cooled completely (this step is important!), spread the frosting generously over the top. Feel free to get creative here—smooth it out or create swirls!

Now you’re ready to slice into this delightful Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dessert with family or friends—it truly embodies the spirit of togetherness!

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting

Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful gingerbread cake that everyone will love!

• Use cold butter – Starting with cold butter helps create a tender cake texture by ensuring the fat doesn’t melt into the sugar too quickly. This technique traps air and leads to a lighter final product.
• Sift your dry ingredients – Sifting flour, baking soda, and spices together not only helps to eliminate lumps but also ensures an even distribution of leaveners and flavors throughout the batter, leading to a perfectly risen cake.
• Check for doneness – To avoid overbaking, use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is done!
• Let it cool completely – Allowing the gingerbread cake to cool completely before frosting is essential. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation while allowing flavors to meld.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can enhance flavor depth, making every bite more delightful.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting

Presenting your gingerbread cake beautifully elevates any dessert table! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve this festive treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft frosting.
• Candied ginger pieces – For an extra zing, finely chop candied ginger and scatter it over the frosting. It enhances the ginger flavor while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream – Light and airy coconut cream pairs wonderfully with the spiced cake, adding a refreshing contrast without overpowering its rich flavors.
• Spiced Apple Compote – A warm spiced apple compote served alongside brings a comforting element that complements the gingerbread’s warmth and sweetness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy balance to the spiced notes of the cake while providing a delicious temperature contrast.

Now that you have all these serving suggestions and tips in hand, it’s time to enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting! Each slice is sure to bring joy and holiday spirit to your table. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting is perfect for meal prep! Not only can it be made ahead of time, but it also stores beautifully, making it a delightful treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, where it will last for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; this helps preserve its moisture and flavor.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat a slice of gingerbread cake, place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• If preferred, you can also warm slices in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until thickened before adding it to your batter.

How do I ensure my Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting turns out moist?

To keep your gingerbread cake moist, be sure not to overbake it. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check doneness – it should come out clean but still slightly sticky. Also, adding molasses helps retain moisture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative or simply blend together vegan butter with powdered sugar and a splash of plant milk to achieve a creamy consistency.

How long does the molasses frosting last?

The molasses frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using again!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting! This recipe captures all the warmth and comfort of the holiday season. Whether it’s for gatherings or just a treat for yourself, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!