Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a holiday classic that combines warm spices, rich molasses, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy evenings, this cake is as delightful as it is easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The perfect balance of warm, spiced flavors and creamy sweetness.
• A moist and tender cake thanks to the addition of buttermilk.
• Topped with a luxurious cinnamon molasses frosting for a festive touch.
• Great for holiday celebrations, potlucks, or an indulgent dessert at home.
• Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for all bakers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Gingerbread Cake:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the molasses, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting is thick and fluffy.

Step 6: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cinnamon molasses frosting evenly over the top. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or powdered sugar over the frosting.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 15 pieces
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
• Lighter Frosting: Use whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting for a lighter topping.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Extra Moisture: Add 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed banana to the batter.
• Festive Add-Ins: Fold in chopped nuts or dried cranberries into the batter for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Reheating: Enjoy the cake cold or allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered. Frost it the next day for the best texture.

2. What can I use instead of molasses?

You can use dark corn syrup, maple syrup, or honey, though the flavor will be slightly different.

3. Can I use a different frosting?

Yes, a simple vanilla buttercream or whipped cream frosting would work well.

4. How do I make buttermilk if I don’t have any?

Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

5. Can I bake this cake in a round pan?

Yes, use two 8-inch round pans and adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.

6. Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking is the most common cause. Check for doneness at the 35-minute mark.

7. Can I add raisins or nuts?

Yes, fold in up to 1/2 cup of raisins, nuts, or both into the batter before baking.

8. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

9. How can I make the frosting less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

10. Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Frost it after thawing for the best results.

Conclusion

This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a festive dessert that captures the cozy warmth of the holiday season. With its rich spices and creamy frosting, it’s perfect for any celebration or a simple winter treat. Easy to make and full of flavor, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.

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