As the holiday season approaches, there’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of gingerbread wafting through the house. Gingerbread, with its rich blend of spices, evokes images of cozy firesides, festive gatherings, and the warmth of cherished traditions. This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia, a nod to the classic flavors of the season, and an invitation to indulge in something truly special.
My fondest memory of gingerbread cake dates back to childhood Christmases spent at my grandmother’s house. Her kitchen was always filled with the enticing scents of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. One year, she decided to make a gingerbread cake instead of the usual cookies, and it became an instant favorite. The cake was moist, spiced to perfection, and topped with a luscious frosting that made every bite heavenly. This recipe is a tribute to that beloved cake, a blend of tradition and innovation that brings a touch of festive cheer to any occasion.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour: 1.5 cups
Milk: 9 ounces
Cold, cubed butter: ½ cup
Molasses: ½ cup
Corn syrup: ½ cup
Packed brown sugar: ½ cup
Egg: 1
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Ground ginger: 1 tablespoon
Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Pumpkin pie spice: 1 teaspoon
For the Frosting:
Powdered sugar: 1.5 cups
Cream cheese: 4 ounces
Softened butter: ¼ cup
Molasses: 3 teaspoons
Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon
Cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
Preparing the Cake
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 5×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This will ensure the cake doesn’t stick and makes for easier removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Whisk together until the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Warm the Milk and Sugar:
In a small saucepan, warm 9 ounces of milk with ½ cup of packed brown sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is lukewarm. Remove from heat and set aside.
Heat Molasses and Corn Syrup:
In another saucepan, gently heat ½ cup of molasses and ½ cup of corn syrup over low heat. This will make the molasses easier to mix into the batter. Stir frequently until the mixture is warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Butter Mixture:
Cut ½ cup of cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Pour the lukewarm milk mixture and the warm molasses mixture into the flour mixture. Stir gently until combined. The batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
Incorporate the Egg:
Whisk 1 egg in a small bowl and then fold it into the batter until fully incorporated. This will help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Cool the Cake:
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For best results, wrap the cooled cake in foil and let it sit for a day. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the top to develop a delightful, sticky texture.
Making the Frosting
Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese:
In a medium bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add Flavors:
Mix in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined. The vanilla and cinnamon will enhance the overall flavor of the frosting.
Incorporate the Powdered Sugar:
Gradually add 1.5 cups of powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating continuously until smooth. This will give the frosting its sweetness and creamy texture.
Mix in the Molasses:
Finally, blend in 3 teaspoons of molasses. This will add depth and a rich flavor that complements the cake beautifully. Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before spreading it on the cake.
Assembling the Cake
Frost the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled and rested, spread the chilled frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula to create a smooth layer or get creative with decorative swirls and patterns.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee and is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy treat for yourself.
Variations and Substitutions
Spice Variations: Adjust the spices according to your preference. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of ginger or add a pinch of cloves.
Flour Alternatives: If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the blend’s guidelines for best results.
Molasses Alternatives: For a lighter flavor, you can replace molasses with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that these substitutes will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Frosting Variations: Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the frosting for a mocha twist or fold in some finely chopped nuts for added texture.
Conclusion
The Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a timeless treat that brings together the warmth of gingerbread and the rich creaminess of a spiced frosting. This recipe captures the essence of holiday baking with its aromatic spices and luscious texture, making it a perfect addition to any festive table. The combination of tender cake and velvety frosting ensures a delightful experience with every bite, whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon treat. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious cake and savor the joy it brings to those who share it with you.
