Gingerbread has become synonymous with the holidays. It’s a classic treat that adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to any home.

Making a gingerbread cake is easier than you think, and with the right spice blend and a few simple ingredients, your house will smell like the holidays in no time. This recipe includes warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger paired with molasses, brown sugar, and vanilla, creating a rich, moist, and fragrant cake that is perfect for any festive gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2/3 cup of molasses
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup of hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch cake pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter and flour.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until blended.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just blended. Gradually add the hot water and mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

Variations:

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some raisins, nuts, or candied ginger to the batter for extra texture and flavor. You could also try swapping out the molasses for maple syrup or honey for a different twist on this classic holiday treat.

Related Article Spicy and Festive Gingerbread Cake

Tips:

• Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This will help them combine more easily and create a smoother batter.
• When adding the hot water, be careful not to over-mix the batter. Over-mixing can cause your cake to become dense and tough.
• Let your cake cool completely before serving. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and create a moist and tender crumb.

Conclusion:

A gingerbread cake is a delicious and fragrant addition to any holiday spread. This recipe is easy to make and perfect when you’re looking for something warming and cozy on a cold winter night.

Adding a dollop of whipped cream or some fresh berries can dress it up for a party, or you can enjoy it simply with a cup of tea or coffee. However you serve it, your house will smell amazing and your taste buds will be happy.