As the crisp air of the holiday season settles in, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, where the warmth and sweetness of baking intertwine with the magic of the festivities. Recently, I discovered a delightful recipe that has become my go-to for any gathering—the Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. The moment the batter hits the oven, the air fills with the intoxicating aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, transforming my home into a cozy haven.

This cake is not just a holiday treat; it’s a versatile indulgence that can brighten any day. Its moist, spongy texture, paired with a creamy, velvety frosting, is the ultimate comfort food. Friends and family can’t help but smile when they take their first bite, and that’s exactly the kind of joy I aim to share. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a simple afternoon coffee break, this gingerbread cake is bound to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure, where each slice embodies the spirit of the season!

Why will you love this Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake?

Warm, Festive Flavors: This cake is infused with rich spices like ginger and cinnamon, making each bite a warm embrace of holiday cheer.

Simplicity at Heart: With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can create this delightful dessert without any hassle.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings or enjoy it solo with a cup of tea; its delicious taste will enchant everyone around your table.

Irresistible Texture: The spongy, moist cake paired with creamy Cinnamon Molasses Frosting creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.

Make-Ahead Magic: Bake it a day in advance to save time, and frost it just before serving to keep that fresh taste!

This cake embodies cozy gatherings and festive moments, ensuring every slice feels like a warm hug. If you love decadent desserts, you might also enjoy my Decadent Pear Cake.

Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake Ingredients

• Dive into the key components that make this cake a holiday favorite!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure and texture; sift for a lighter cake.
Ground Ginger – The star flavor that offers a spicy kick; consider using fresh ginger for a more vibrant taste.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the cake; don’t skimp on this fragrant spice!
Molasses – Provides rich color and deep flavor; opt for unsulfured molasses for the best results.
Sugar – Granulated for necessary sweetness; brown sugar can be used for extra moisture.
Baking Soda – Acts as the leavening agent, giving your cake the perfect rise.
Eggs – Bind ingredients together while adding a luxurious richness.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures control over saltiness and delivers a luscious mouthfeel.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Key for the frosting; adds a lovely balance of tanginess.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift to prevent lumps.
Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor of your frosting and complements the cake beautifully.

Get ready to relish each slice of this Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting—a true testament to home-baked happiness!

How to Make Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring it’s ready for that fluffy batter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and granulated sugar until well blended and airy.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the molasses, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and warm water until smooth and combined, creating a deliciously rich mixture.
Combine Mixtures: Gently add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Prepare Frosting: While the cake bakes, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and cinnamon until you achieve a creamy, velvety frosting consistency.
Frost Cake: Once the cake has cooled on a wire rack, spread a generous layer of the frosting on top, inviting a delightful finish to your baking masterpiece.

Optional: Garnish the frosted cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cakes are perfect for meal prep and can truly help make your holiday baking stress-free! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist. The Cinnamon Molasses Frosting can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply refrigerate it in a sealed container. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cake just before enjoying it to ensure the frosting remains fresh and creamy. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, allowing you more time to savor the festivities!

What to Serve with Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake?

Elevate your holiday spread with delightful pairings that complement the rich spices and creamy frosting of this beloved dessert.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the spice-rich cake, enhancing its comforting flavor.
Hot Apple Cider: Sipping on warm apple cider, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, resonates beautifully with the gingerbread, creating a cozy experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the cake’s spices, offering a delightful balance of flavors and temperatures.
Nutty Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed nutty coffee complements the warm spices of the gingerbread and enhances the moist cake’s flavor profile.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a burst of freshness and color on the table, lightening the richness of the gingerbread cake.
Maple Glazed Pecans: These crispy, sweet nuts amplify the spiced flavors and give an appealing crunch to complement the cake’s moist texture.
Spiced Mulled Wine: This warm, aromatic drink elevates any gathering with its cozy vibes, echoing the holiday spirit of the gingerbread cake.
Cheese Board: Incorporate creamy cheeses like Brie or tangy goat cheese; their richness pairs well with the sweetness and spices of the cake.

Indulge in these delicious accompaniments to make your dessert experience warm and memorable!

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions, allowing your gingerbread cake to shine in new ways.

Fresh Ginger: Substitute ground ginger with fresh ginger for a brighter flavor profile and a delightful kick.
Nutty Boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a beautiful crunch and rich flavor in every bite.
Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a deliciously accommodating treat.
Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an exciting depth of flavor that takes the cake to the next level.
Fruit Medley: Fold in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a pop of sweetness and extra texture in your cake.
Molasses Alternatives: For a different twist, substitute molasses with equal parts honey or maple syrup, giving the cake a new aromatic essence.
Creamy Variations: Use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese in the frosting for a richer and creamier experience that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Choco-Ginger Delight: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cake for an indulgently decadent touch that complements the flavors beautifully.

Each variation invites you to make this gingerbread cake truly your own, ensuring that every slice tells a unique story. Enjoy the process and the sweet aroma of creativity wafting through your kitchen!

Storage Tips for Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness and flavor.

Fridge: If you wish to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week in an airtight container. This helps preserve freshness while enhancing the spices.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious essence.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or at room temperature for the best taste experience!

Expert Tips for Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake

Sift Flour: Always sift your all-purpose flour to ensure a lighter cake texture. This simple step can make a big difference!
Softened Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to create a smooth and well-blended batter.
Don’t Overmix: Avoid the common mistake of overmixing the batter; this can lead to a dense rather than fluffy Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake.
Fresh Spices: Use fresh ground ginger and cinnamon for optimal flavor. Stale spices can diminish the cake’s delicious warmth.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; this will prevent the frosting from melting and ensure a beautiful presentation.
Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or fridge for up to a week to keep it fresh and delightful!

Irresistible Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for this gingerbread cake?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for all-purpose flour that is fresh and hasn’t been sitting in your pantry for too long. Ground ginger and cinnamon should be fragrant; if they smell muted, it’s time to replace them. For molasses, I recommend opting for unsulfured molasses, as it provides the best depth of flavor without any off-tastes.

How should I store leftover gingerbread cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. This allows the flavors to deepen and brings out that cozy ginger spice even more!

Can I freeze this gingerbread cake? If so, how?
Very! Freezing this cake is a great option for future enjoyment. To freeze, first let the fully cooled cake slices wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This will help keep out air. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked experience.

What do I do if my cake turns out dense?
Don’t fret if your cake isn’t as fluffy as you’d hoped! A common culprit is overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients to the dry. To achieve that light, airy texture, mix gently and just until combined—some lumps in the batter are perfectly okay. It’s all about careful handling to let that rise really shine through!

Is this gingerbread cake suitable for people with specific dietary considerations?
If you have allergies to gluten or eggs, you can certainly adapt this recipe! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour. Additionally, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute, using 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. This can yield a similarly delicious texture, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful cake!

Can my pets enjoy any of these ingredients?
Caution is essential when it comes to pets! Ingredients like ginger and cinnamon in small amounts are generally safe for dogs, but the sugar can be problematic. However, avoid the frosting for pets, as cream cheese and powdered sugar aren’t ideal for them. Always consult with your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends!