As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of gingerbread cake brings families together. This traditional dessert has been enjoyed for over a thousand years. It has become a Christmas staple.
Our recipe serves up to 16 people and is even vegan-friendly. Each slice is packed with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon. These spices create a rich flavor profile, complemented by molasses and light brown sugar.
At about 278 calories per serving, it’s a nutritious yet indulgent holiday dessert. It’s perfect for festive gatherings.
The Rich History of Holiday Gingerbread Traditions
Gingerbread has been a key part of holiday fun for centuries. It comes from medieval Europe, enjoyed at big events like Rosh Hashanah and weddings. Today, adding candied ginger to ginger flavored treats honors its past.
Medieval Origins and Cultural Significance
Gingerbread first came to Europe in 992 CE, thanks to an Armenian monk. Over time, it became a favorite in Germany and Scandinavia. German immigrants brought gingerbread to Sweden in the 13th century, starting a lasting tradition.
Evolution into Modern Christmas Desserts
Gingerbread turned into a Christmas favorite over time. In 2013, a massive gingerbread house was built in Texas. In 2009, Norway made the biggest gingerbread man, showing gingerbread’s charm.
Gingerbread houses in Sweden and White House displays show its enduring appeal. Its history and cultural importance keep inspiring bakers and holiday fans to make this ginger flavored treat every year.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Gingerbread Cake
Making a delicious Molasses Cake or Spice Cake needs top-notch ingredients. The recipe for this festive gingerbread cake uses a special mix of ingredients. These ingredients work together to make a cake that’s rich, aromatic, and moist.
The recipe starts with all-purpose flour, ground ginger, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. Adding a pinch of fine sea salt gives it a special touch. These dry ingredients are the base, adding structure and warmth to the cake.
To make the batter come alive, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and unsulphured molasses are mixed together. This adds deep, caramelized flavors to the cake. Vanilla extract and a large egg are added next, boosting the cake’s taste and texture.
What might seem odd is the recipe’s call for a cup of boiling water. This makes the cake moist and tender. You can also add extras like orange zest, cocoa powder, or nuts to make it your own.
Using the best ingredients, like Golden Barrel Baking Supreme Molasses, makes the cake even better. It ensures the Molasses Cake and Spice Cake are full of spice, sweetness, and richness in every bite.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Ground ginger | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cloves | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fine sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup |
| Light brown sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Unsulphured molasses | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Boiling water | 1 cup |
This recipe makes 16 servings of Molasses Cake or Spice Cake. It’s perfect for any holiday party. By choosing and balancing these ingredients carefully, you can make a gingerbread cake that looks great and tastes amazing.
“The secret to a magnificent Molasses Cake or Spice Cake lies in the quality and balance of its ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in crafting the perfect holiday treat.”
The Magic of Molasses and Warming Spices
Molasses is key to making the perfect Festive Baking. It gives gingerbread its rich taste. Grandma’s Original unsulphured molasses is best for its deep sweetness and earthy Ginger Flavored spices.
Understanding Different Types of Molasses
Molasses has different flavors. Light molasses is sweet and mild. Dark molasses is richer and slightly bitter. Blackstrap molasses is the most intense.
For the best gingerbread, mix light and dark molasses. This creates a balanced flavor.
Choosing and Combining Holiday Spices
The classic gingerbread spice mix includes ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes nutmeg. These spices add flavor and a holiday aroma. It’s important to get the spice balance right for the perfect taste.
| Spice | Typical Amount | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Ginger | 2 teaspoons | Warm, peppery, and slightly sweet |
| Ground Cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Aromatic, sweet, and slightly woody |
| Ground Cloves | 1/2 teaspoon | Earthy, slightly bitter, and strongly spiced |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Warm, nutty, and slightly sweet |
Knowing how to use each spice makes Festive Baking special. It creates a delightful experience for the senses.
Equipment and Tools for Baking Success
Making the perfect Holiday Dessert or Traditional Recipe needs more than just a bowl and spoon. You need the right tools and equipment. Each tool, from measuring cups to cooling racks, is important for the right texture, flavor, and look.
Invest in high-quality baking pans for the best results. Metal pans, like aluminum or stainless steel, distribute heat evenly. Silicone pans also work well, making it easy to remove cakes and pastries. Always line your pans with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
An electric mixer is key for whipping up light batters. Whether you choose a stand mixer or a handheld one, it saves time and effort. It’s perfect for creaming butter, whipping cream, and getting the right texture for your Holiday Dessert or Traditional Recipe.
Accurate measurements are the base of successful baking. Get a set of measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts. A digital scale is also helpful, giving you the most accurate results.
Other essential tools include offset spatulas for frosting, bench scrapers for leveling cakes, and cooling racks for even cooling. With the right equipment, you’ll make a stunning Holiday Dessert or Traditional Recipe that will wow your guests.
| Baking Tool | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Angel Food Cake Pan | $30 |
| Brownie Pan | $33 |
| Bundt Pan | $39 – $50 |
| Cast Iron Skillet | $15 – $41 |
| Extra-Deep Cake Pans | $16 |
| Cast Iron Turntable | $86 |
| Cookie Cutters | $15 |
| Cookie Dough Scoops | $21 – $28 |
| Digital Scale | $56 |
| Digital Probe Thermometer | $23 |
| Electric Griddle | $60 |
Getting the right measurements is key to baking success. Too little or too much of an ingredient can ruin your baking. Invest in liquid and dry measuring cups, and a set of measuring spoons for accurate amounts.
You’ll need mixing bowls of different sizes for mixing batters and doughs. Whisks are great for mixing and aerating ingredients. Silicone spatulas are perfect for scraping bowls and folding mixtures.
Essential tools include round cake pans, a rectangular baking dish, muffin tins, and a non-stick baking sheet. Cooling racks help baked goods cool evenly, preventing sogginess.
Rolling pins are a must for perfect pie crusts and cookies. Choose sturdy, smooth-surfaced rolling pins for easy use.
Step-by-Step Gingerbread Cake Preparation
Making a delicious gingerbread cake is a fun holiday tradition. To get a moist, tasty cake that looks great, just follow these simple steps:
Mixing Techniques for Perfect Texture
First, heat your oven to 350°F. In a big bowl, mix together the dry stuff: 3 cups of flour, 2½ teaspoons of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1½ teaspoons of cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda.
Then, in another bowl, mix the wet stuff: 1 cup of molasses, 1 cup of hot water, 1 cup of sugar, ¾ cup of melted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla. Make sure the sugar dissolves well.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ones. Don’t overmix. This keeps your Christmas Treat and Festive Baking tender and moist.
Baking Tips and Temperature Control
Butter a 9-inch square pan and cover it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into it and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until it’s done by touching the center.
Let the cake cool down before you frost or serve it. By following these steps and using the right baking techniques, you’ll make a moist, tasty Christmas Treat everyone will enjoy.
Creating the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting
No holiday dessert is complete without a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s the perfect match for the warm, spicy gingerbread cake. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a frosting that will take your Christmas treat to new heights.
To make the ultimate cream cheese frosting, you’ll need 6 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 3/4 cups of powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric stand mixer to whip these ingredients together until they’re pale and fluffy.
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This ensures the frosting blends smoothly, creating a silky-smooth consistency. Take your time whipping the mixture to incorporate air, making the frosting light and airy.
| Nutritional Information | Serving Size: 1 slice (of 10 total) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 468 |
| Calories from Fat | 180 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 68mg |
| Sodium | 199mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 69g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 52g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 465IU |
| Calcium | 86mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
This cream cheese frosting is rich, creamy, and just sweet enough. It’s the perfect topping for your Holiday Dessert or Christmas Treat. Spread it generously over your gingerbread cake for a truly indulgent and festive dessert.
Decorating Techniques for a Festive Display
Make your Christmas Treat stand out with a gingerbread cake that’s eye-catching. Dust the top with confectioner’s sugar for a “snowy” look. Then, add edible Festive Baking glitter, crushed candy canes, or mini gingerbread figures for fun.
For a centerpiece, use a wreath of fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. The sweet and tangy cranberries will make your cake look amazing. Use an offset spatula for a smooth frosting. Baking in a house-shaped pan will make your cake a showstopper.
Holiday Garnishes and Toppings
- Confectioner’s sugar for a snowy dusting
- Edible glitter in festive colors
- Crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist
- Mini gingerbread figures for a whimsical touch
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a wreath design
- Sugared cranberries for a tangy-sweet contrast
Professional Presentation Tips
- Use an offset spatula for a smooth, even frosting application
- Bake the gingerbread cake in a house-shaped pan for a unique display
- Consider decorating the cake with a festive pattern or design
- Serve the gingerbread cake on a holiday-themed platter or stand
With these decorating tips, your Christmas Treat will be a hit. It will look and taste amazing. Let your creativity shine in your gingerbread cake presentation.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Instructions
Hosting a festive holiday gathering? The traditional gingerbread cake with creamy holiday dessert can be prepared well in advance. This classic recipe has a 4.97 out of 5 rating from over 1,051 votes. It’s known for its soft, moist crumb and delightful spiced flavor.
The unfrosted gingerbread cake can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it at room temperature. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake overnight in the fridge before frosting and enjoying.
The creamy holiday dessert topping can also be made ahead. The traditional recipe suggests making the cream cheese frosting a day or two before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This makes assembling the dessert easier on the day of your event.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature (Unfrosted) | Up to 3 days |
| Refrigerator (Frosted) | Up to 5 days |
| Freezer (Unfrosted) | Up to 3 months |
By using these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the traditional gingerbread cake with its holiday dessert topping without stress. Savor the delicious flavors of the season with minimal effort!
Holiday Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your Christmas treat special by matching gingerbread cake with drinks and desserts. Enjoy slices of moist gingerbread cake with spiced cider or a vanilla latte. The cake’s spices and molasses will enhance the flavors of these holiday drinks.
For a decadent dessert table, pair gingerbread cake with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or orange slices. It also goes great with gingerbread or sugar cookies. Try a gingerbread milkshake or latte for a themed dessert.
Beverage Pairings for Gingerbread Cake
- Spiced apple cider
- Rich, creamy coffee (such as a gingerbread latte)
- Vanilla-infused hot chocolate
- Velvety eggnog
Complementary Dessert Combinations
- Gingerbread cookies or biscuits
- Peppermint ice cream or sorbet
- Pomegranate, orange, or other seasonal fruit salad
- Spiced apple or pear crumble
Pairing gingerbread cake with the right drinks and desserts makes for a festive Christmas treat experience.
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Baking the perfect Gingerbread Cake for festive times can be fun. But, sometimes, unexpected problems can happen. Knowing how to fix common baking issues can help you make the best Festive Baking treats.
One common problem is a dry, crumbly cake. This often happens when you bake it too long. To avoid this, watch the oven temperature and time closely. Studies show that ovens can be off by 25 degrees, so use an oven thermometer for accurate readings.
Another issue is a sinking center. This might be due to old baking powder or soda. Always check the expiration dates and use fresh ingredients. Also, proper mixing technique is key for the right texture and rise.
If your Gingerbread Cake feels too dense, it might be because you mixed the batter too much. Gently fold the ingredients to avoid too much gluten, which makes the cake tough.
| Baking Issue | Potential Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Cake | Overbaking, inaccurate oven temperature | Use an oven thermometer, check baking time |
| Sinking Center | Issues with leavening agents, improper mixing | Use fresh baking powder/soda, gently mix the batter |
| Dense Texture | Over-mixing the batter | Fold the ingredients gently to avoid overdeveloping gluten |
To succeed, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Use the right tools, like a stand mixer, for even blending. With some troubleshooting and attention to detail, you can bake the perfect Gingerbread Cake for your festive events.
“Baking is like washing dishes, you just have to get in there and do it. If I can bake, anyone can. It’s not hard at all, and absolutely worth the effort.” – Martha Stewart
Nutritional Information and Dietary Adaptations
Enjoying a slice of this traditional holiday gingerbread cake is a treat. Each slice has about 252 calories. It has 41g of carbs and 9g of fat, with 5g of saturated fat.
For those on a gluten-free diet, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Vegan versions can be made with plant-based butter and egg substitutes. You can also cut down on sugar by using honey or molasses, reducing sugar to 25g per serving.
When making changes, always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens. This way, you can enjoy the holiday gingerbread cake while meeting your dietary needs or preferences.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients for a delightful gingerbread cake?
To make a great gingerbread cake, you’ll need flour, ground ginger, and baking soda. Also, cinnamon, cloves, and fine sea salt are important. Don’t forget unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and molasses.
Vanilla extract, eggs, and boiling water are also key. You can add orange zest, cocoa powder, or nuts for extra flavor. Chocolate chips and sprinkles can make it even more special.
Why is molasses so important for gingerbread’s flavor?
Molasses gives gingerbread its unique taste. Use unsulphured molasses, like Grandma’s Original, for the best flavor. The spice mix includes ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes nutmeg.
These spices not only taste great but also make your home smell festive.
What are the essential baking tools for making gingerbread cake?
You’ll need metal pans, like aluminum or stainless steel, for baking. Silicone pans help with even browning. Parchment paper is a must for easy cake removal.
Electric mixers, measuring tools, and spatulas are also essential. A 9-inch square metal pan is perfect for this recipe. The right tools help with even baking and decorating.
How can you make the cream cheese frosting for the gingerbread cake?
To make the frosting, mix softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy. This frosting is perfect for the spicy gingerbread cake, adding a creamy touch.
How can you decorate the gingerbread cake for a festive display?
Start with a dusting of confectioner’s sugar for a snowy look. Add edible glitter, crushed candy canes, or mini gingerbread figures for festive touches. A wreath made from cranberries and rosemary looks great.
Sugared cranberries add a sweet contrast. For a smooth frosting, use an offset spatula. A house-shaped cake pan adds a unique touch.
How can you store and preserve the gingerbread cake?
You can make the cake ahead and store it to keep it fresh. Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving. If frosted, refrigerate and eat within 5 days for the best taste.
What are the common issues that can arise when baking gingerbread cake?
Issues like dry cake or sinking can happen. To avoid dryness, don’t overbake. Check your leavening agents for sinking. For a dense texture, mix properly.
Make sure ingredients are at room temperature. If the cake sticks, use parchment paper and grease well. Rotate the pan for even baking. If frosting is too runny, chill it first.
What are the nutritional facts and dietary adaptations for gingerbread cake?
A serving of gingerbread cake has about 278 calories. It’s a mix of carbs and fats. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour. Vegan options include plant-based butter and egg substitutes.
To reduce sugar, use natural sweeteners or less sugar. Always check labels for allergens, even with adaptations.
