Spiced Gingerbread Cake: 7 Irresistible Cozy Moments

Name: Spiced Gingerbread Cake: 7 Irresistible Cozy Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup hot water

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 18, 2025

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat: Spiced Gingerbread Cake! There’s just something magical about the smell of warm spices wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? This cake is a delightful blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that will wrap you in a cozy embrace while you sip on some hot cocoa or spiced tea. I love how simple it is to whip up—perfect for those busy holiday afternoons when you want to bake something special but don’t have all day to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a bit of frosting or whipped cream. Trust me, once you slice into this cake, you’ll find it’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate!

Spiced Gingerbread Cake - detail 1

Ingredients for Spiced Gingerbread Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
2 large eggs
1/2 cup hot water

How to Prepare Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—baking this delightful Spiced Gingerbread Cake! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, starting with a warm oven is crucial for that perfect rise.

Next, grab a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it well, then dust it with flour. This ensures your cake releases smoothly after baking—no one wants a broken gingerbread masterpiece!

Now, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Make sure it’s all well combined; this mix of spices is where the magic starts!

In another larger bowl, cream your softened butter and brown sugar together until it’s fluffy and light—about 3-4 minutes. It should look pale and creamy, just like a dreamy cloud! To this mixture, add the molasses and eggs, and mix until everything is beautifully blended.

Now, it’s time to bring the dry ingredients into the mix. Gradually add your flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water. This step is super important—mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your cake dense, and we want it light and airy!

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. And there you have it—your Spiced Gingerbread Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: This Spiced Gingerbread Cake is packed with warm spices that evoke the essence of the holiday season. Each bite is a delightful blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that dances on your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time. It’s perfect for those busy afternoons when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of frosting. This cake can effortlessly adapt to any occasion, making it a fantastic treat for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen beautifully if made a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free baking experience while still impressing your guests!

Tips for Success with Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Alright, my friends, let’s make sure your Spiced Gingerbread Cake turns out perfectly every time! First, keep an eye on your baking time. Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark. If the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden!

If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just remember, the richness of molasses is what makes this cake special!

When serving, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely finishing touch. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this cake! Enjoy the baking magic!

Serving Suggestions for Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Now that you’ve baked this scrumptious Spiced Gingerbread Cake, let’s talk about how to elevate your serving experience! This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai or a classic hot cocoa. The rich flavors of the cake complement the cozy warmth of these drinks perfectly.

If you want to add a bit of flair, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—nothing beats that creamy contrast against the spiced cake! You could even drizzle a little caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing with candied ginger or a sprinkle of cinnamon. And don’t forget about fresh fruit; a side of sliced pears or apples brings a lovely freshness that balances out the cake’s warmth. Trust me, these pairings will make your gingerbread cake the star of any holiday gathering!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Once you’ve savored your delicious Spiced Gingerbread Cake, you might wonder how to store those tempting leftovers. To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This little trick helps lock in moisture and keeps the cake delightful for up to a week at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it up, wrap each piece in plastic, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last for about three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a rubbery texture instead of that soft, cozy goodness. Enjoy every bite of your gingerbread magic!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a little note here: the nutritional information provided for this Spiced Gingerbread Cake is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, if you’re counting calories or watching your sugar intake, keep in mind that your results may differ slightly from what’s listed. Always best to check the labels for the most accurate info!

FAQ About Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Q1: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a one-to-one replacement for best results. You might want to add a bit of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it to help with texture.

Q2: How can I make this cake more festive?
For a holiday twist, consider adding some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter. You could also fold in some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added flavor and a pop of color!

Q3: Is it normal for the cake to sink in the middle?
If your Spiced Gingerbread Cake sinks, it could be due to overmixing or not baking it long enough. Make sure to mix just until combined and check for doneness with a toothpick before the time is up.

Q4: Can I frost the cake?
Of course! A cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze would pair beautifully with the spiced flavors of the cake. Just remember, it’s delicious even plain!

Q5: How do I know when the cake is done?
Check it around the 30-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes and check again.