Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Last weekend, I had the joy of preparing Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting for my family, and let me tell you—it was an absolute hit! The rich flavors and the comforting aroma filled our kitchen, turning a regular evening into something special. My family, who can sometimes be picky eaters, couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Even the leftovers didn’t stand a chance! As someone who loves sharing recipes that bring people together, this is one I highly recommend trying.

Cooking is an art, but it’s also a way to connect with loved ones. Every dish tells a story, and this recipe is no different. As I was preparing it, I thought about how food brings us together—whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, there’s always something magical about gathering around a table.

Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need. The full ingredient list and measurements are below in the recipe card.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Flour – The base for the cake, providing structure and texture. Baking Soda – Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy. Ground Ginger – The signature spice of gingerbread that adds warmth and depth to the flavor. Ground Cinnamon – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the gingerbread spice profile. Ground Cloves – Contributes to the spicy, sweet undertones of the gingerbread. Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors. Butter – Adds moisture and richness to the cake. Brown Sugar – Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the gingerbread flavor. Molasses – The key ingredient in gingerbread, giving it its rich, dark flavor. Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake. Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang, creating a tender crumb. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with its sweetness.

Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Powdered Sugar – Gives the frosting a smooth, creamy texture. Butter – Creates a rich base for the frosting, making it smooth and spreadable. Molasses – Adds a rich, deep sweetness and color to the frosting. Cinnamon – Complements the spices in the cake and adds an extra layer of warmth. Milk – Helps thin the frosting to the desired consistency.

Instructions Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Make sure not to overmix, as this could affect the final texture.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Prepare your baking dish by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. Proper preparation not only prevents sticking but also makes cleaning up a breeze later on.

Assemble the Dish: Pour the wet ingredients, including butter, brown sugar, molasses, eggs, and buttermilk, into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the batter. Spread everything evenly in the prepared dish for consistent baking.

Cook to Perfection: Bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to follow the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking or drying out the dish.

Finishing Touches: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial to let the flavors settle. It’s tempting to dig in right away, but a brief cooling period makes a big difference.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a cup of tea or enjoyed as an after-dinner treat, this cake is sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake. Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for a heartier meal or as a side for tea time. Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a luxurious, creamy contrast. Fruit Sides: Fresh fruits, like apples or pears, complement the warm spices of the cake beautifully. As a Standalone: Sometimes, this cake is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Additional Tips Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Save time by measuring your dry ingredients ahead of time. This will help speed up the process when you’re ready to bake. Spice It Up: If you like more heat, try adding a bit of ground black pepper to the cake batter. Dietary Adjustments: To make this cake dairy-free, substitute the butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil. Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Reheat gently to keep it moist. Double the Batch: This recipe freezes wonderfully, so consider making extra to save for a later date.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup?
A1: Molasses provides a distinct flavor that’s key to gingerbread, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use honey or maple syrup for a different, but still sweet, result.

Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Bake the cake in advance, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Frost before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.

Q4: Can I freeze this cake?
A4: Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Q5: How do I reheat this cake?
A5: Reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust your baking pan size and cooking time accordingly.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
A7: You can make this recipe gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance out the richness of the cake.

Q9: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A9: Substitute some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use a reduced-sugar version of molasses.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A round 9-inch cake pan works best for this recipe, ensuring even baking.

Print