Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of the holiday season with this irresistible gingerbread cake recipe. Infused with aromatic spices and topped with a sweet cinnamon molasses glaze, this cake is sure to become a favorite dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the essence of gingerbread joy to your kitchen.
Ingredients for Gingerbread Cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup hot water
Ingredients for Cinnamon Molasses Glaze:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Gingerbread Cake
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses and eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water, and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Molasses Glaze
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the molasses, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Drizzle the warm glaze over the cooled gingerbread cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
1. Slice the gingerbread cake into squares and serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
2. Enjoy the rich, spicy flavors of the gingerbread cake paired with the sweet warmth of the cinnamon molasses glaze.
With its fragrant spices and decadent glaze, this spiced gingerbread cake is the epitome of holiday indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a dessert for festive gatherings or a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and evoke fond memories of the season. Share the joy of homemade goodness with family and friends by serving up slices of this irresistible gingerbread delight.
