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Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Holiday Classic

This Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced dessert that’s ideal for the holidays or any time you crave a taste of warmth and comfort. It’s a simple cake to bake, but the combination of gingerbread spices, molasses, and a tangy cream cheese frosting makes it a truly irresistible treat. This article covers everything from the ingredients needed to the step-by-step baking process, nutritional information, and frequently asked questions to ensure you can create this delicious masterpiece in your own kitchen. The cake offers the warm, comforting spices of gingerbread paired with the tangy, creamy perfection of cream cheese frosting, making it an unforgettable dessert experience.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cake

This Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting experience. The rich, dark molasses flavor, combined with the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creates a cake that’s both fragrant and delicious. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy counterpoint, balancing the sweetness of the cake and creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert for your holiday table or simply a comforting treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this gingerbread cake is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• For the Cake:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup hot water

Make sure your butter is properly softened before starting. Softened butter should be at room temperature and easily pliable, but not melted.

• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)

The key to smooth cream cheese frosting is softened cream cheese. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour before you plan to start frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper to line the pan, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. This ensures that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses until well combined. Molasses adds moisture and that signature gingerbread flavor.

Step 5: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 6: Stir in Hot Water

Gently stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. The hot water helps to bloom the spices and create a moister cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting. You can decorate it with gingerbread men, sprinkles, or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.

Recipe Card

Prep Time:	20 minutes
Cook Time:	30-35 minutes
Total Time:	50-55 minutes
Category:	Dessert
Method:	Baking
Cuisine:	American

Nutrition Card

Calories:	Approximately 450 per serving (varies based on portion size and frosting amount)
Sugar:	Approximately 50g
Fat:	Approximately 25g
Carbohydrates:	Approximately 60g
Fiber:	Approximately 1g
Protein:	Approximately 4g
Yields:	12-16 servings

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the gingerbread cake 1-2 days in advance. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Frost the cake just before serving.

Can I freeze gingerbread cake?

Yes, you can freeze unfrosted gingerbread cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely before frosting.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with gingerbread cake, you can also use a simple vanilla buttercream, a lemon glaze, or even a caramel frosting.

How do I keep my gingerbread cake moist?

To keep your gingerbread cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also place a slice of bread in the container to help absorb excess moisture.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the cake batter?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins) to the cake batter for added texture and flavor. Add about ½ to 1 cup to the batter before baking.

I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family great food is meant to be shared! Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more delicious recipes, kitchen tips, and daily cooking inspiration, Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to bringing you even more tasty ideas straight from my kitchen.

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