Festive Gingerbread Cake
A richly spiced cake that brings warmth to your gatherings and sweetness to your holidays.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Fine and soft, creating a tender base.
- 1.5 tsp ground ginger A warm spice that will awaken your senses.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon Sweet and aromatic, adding depth.
- 0.5 tsp ground cloves An intensely fragrant spice with a touch of intrigue.
- 0.5 tsp baking soda The magical leavening agent that ensures a fluffy rise.
- 0.25 tsp salt Elevating flavors and enhancing sweetness.
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened Rich and creamy, bringing a luxurious feel.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed Deeply caramelized sweetness that enriches the cake.
- 2 large eggs Binding elements that add moisture and richness.
- 1 cup molasses Dark and sticky, infusing warmth and depth.
- 0.5 cup hot water A secret ingredient that makes the cake wonderfully moist.
Frosting ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar Sweet and airy, perfect for a smooth finish.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened Adds creaminess and structure.
- 2 tbsp milk Lightly thins the frosting for ease of spreading.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract A hint of sweetness to round out flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by greasing it with butter and dusting it with flour.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth, then stir in the molasses.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with hot water, until fully combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- Prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once the cake is cool, frost generously, allowing the frosting to spill over the edges.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. Measure flour accurately to avoid a dense cake, and do not rush the beating process to incorporate air for a fluffy result.