Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting: A Delicious Holiday Recipe

Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a delightful holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer to any celebration. With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, this cake is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to bake a Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting this holiday season. First and foremost, it combines the classic winter spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, evoking the essence of the holidays with every bite. The addition of a luscious molasses frosting adds a sweet and spicy richness that complements the cake beautifully.

Whether you are hosting a festive gathering, looking for a sweet gift for friends, or simply wishing to indulge yourself, this cake is an excellent choice. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a showstopper at any dessert table. Plus, baking this cake fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dessert.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Creating this Gingerbread Cake with its sumptuous frosting is straightforward. By following the steps and tips provided, you’ll be able to whip up this delicious dessert with ease.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Cake:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup molasses
1 cup hot water
1/4 cup buttermilk

For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup molasses
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 cup milk, or more as needed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (approximately 3-5 minutes).
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition.
Gradually add the molasses, mixing until well combined.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients with the hot water and buttermilk, starting and finishing with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Incorporate the molasses and cinnamon, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
For an extra festive touch, decorate with sprinkles, candied ginger, or a dusting of cinnamon.
Slice the cake into squares and serve.
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips for Success Gingerbread Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can make the cake dense.
Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking the cake a few minutes before the recommended time. A skewer should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Moist Cake: If you prefer an extra moist cake, consider adding an additional 1/4 cup of buttermilk.
Chill the Frosting: If the frosting is too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes before spreading it on the cake.

Flavor Variations Gingerbread Cake

Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cardamom for a unique twist on traditional gingerbread flavors.
Nutty Addition: Fold in 1-2 cups of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful chocolate-ginger flavor combination.
Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of fresh orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note.

Serving Suggestions Gingerbread Cake

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the spiced flavors of the cake.
Present slices with a drizzle of extra molasses over the top for an attractive look.
Enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Gingerbread Cake

Room Temperature: This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week.
Freezing: You can also freeze leftover slices. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|———-|———|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |

FAQ About Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Can I use a different type of molasses for this recipe?

You can use light or blackstrap molasses, but each type will affect the flavor slightly. Dark molasses adds a stronger flavor and a darker color. Light molasses is milder, so choose based on your personal preference.

Can I substitute the butter?

Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Keep in mind that this might affect the taste and texture, but it will still be delicious.

How do I make my cake more festive?

You can add festive decorations such as chocolate shavings, edible glitter, or seasonal sprinkles. Additionally, serving the cake on a festive platter enhances its visual appeal for the holidays.

What can I replace the molasses with?

If you’re out of molasses, you can substitute it with honey or dark corn syrup. However, the flavor will differ slightly, and honey will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly for balance.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Gingerbread cake freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to maintain freshness. Always allow it to cool completely before freezing it to prevent ice crystals from forming.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a wonderful holiday recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, this cake promises to deliver both flavor and joy. The combination of warm spices and creamy frosting creates a perfect balance, making each slice a delightful treat. Happy baking!