Introduction
During the holiday season, nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked treats filling the house. One recipe that never fails to delight both young and old is Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. This festive dessert embodies the warmth and coziness of winter, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table. Let’s dive into the magic of this delectable creation that combines spicy gingerbread flavors with the sweet and aromatic touch of cinnamon-infused frosting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What sets this Gingerbread Cake apart is its perfect balance of spices that dance on your taste buds with each bite. The soft, moist cake paired with the creamy and fragrant cinnamon molasses frosting creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Additionally, this recipe offers a dairy-free option, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time. The combination of gingerbread and cinnamon not only tastes divine but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dessert.
For a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated, look no further than this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. The rich history of gingerbread and the festive charm of cinnamon make this recipe a must-try for the holiday season.
Ingredients
To recreate this delightful Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting in your own kitchen, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup hot water
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the molasses, hot water, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by creaming together the butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, molasses, and milk until smooth.
7. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and serve.
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your Gingerbread Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
– Make sure to properly measure your ingredients, especially the spices, for a well-balanced flavor profile.
– For a richer frosting, you can add a touch of cream cheese to the mixture.
– Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to put a unique spin on this classic recipe, consider the following variations:
– Add chopped nuts or crystallized ginger to the cake batter for extra texture and flavor.
– Swap the molasses in the frosting for maple syrup for a different sweet twist.
– Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the experience of enjoying your Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy and slightly spicy frosting pairs beautifully with the coolness of the ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
For a complete holiday dessert spread, serve this cake alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai tea or hot apple cider. The warm spices in the cake and frosting will harmonize with the comforting flavors of the beverages, making for a cozy and indulgent treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it unfrosted for up to 2 days. Frost the cake just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: While the cake can be frozen, the frosting may not hold up well after thawing. If you choose to freeze the cake, do so without frosting and add the frosting after thawing.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on creating this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting, remember to enjoy the process as much as the end result. Baking during the holidays is a time-honored tradition that brings families together and creates lasting memories. With its irresistible flavors and cozy appeal, this recipe is sure to become a staple on your holiday dessert table for years to come. Embrace the joy of baking and sharing delicious treats with your loved ones this holiday season!
Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting: A Delicious Holiday Recipe
A delightful and festive Gingerbread Cake with a creamy Cinnamon Molasses Frosting, perfect for the holiday season. This aromatic dessert combines the warmth of gingerbread with the sweet and spicy touch of cinnamon-infused frosting for a truly delightful treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, mix the molasses, hot water, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting by creaming together the butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, molasses, and milk until smooth.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and serve.
