Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Have you ever wondered why gingerbread is such a beloved treat during the holidays? It turns out that gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting not only tantalizes our taste buds but also carries a rich history going back centuries. The warm spices – like ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon – have long been associated with comfort and festivity. In this post, we will guide you through making a delectable gingerbread cake that promises to be the star of your holiday dessert table.

Ingredients Needed

For our delicious gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cake, providing structure and richness.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy kick; consider using fresh ginger for a more intense flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Offers a sweet and woody aroma.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: This spice adds a slightly nutty flavor that complements the gingerbread beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the cake’s warmth with its strong, aromatic qualities.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cake rise properly.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness; you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist; can be replaced with applesauce for a lighter version.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients; for a vegan option, use flax eggs.
• ¾ cup molasses: The star of the show, giving the cake its characteristic flavor.
• 1 cup hot water: Ensures the ingredients blend smoothly.

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The base of our frosting, offering that creamy tanginess.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates a luscious texture; coconut cream works well for a dairy-free alternative.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness; always opt for pure vanilla.
• 1 tablespoon molasses: Deepens the flavor profile of the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Similar to the cake, this adds a comforting warmth.
• ¾ teaspoon ground ginger: A nod to the gingerbread cake.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: Complements the other spices.
• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting; adjust according to your sweetness preference.

Timing

Cooking up this scrumptious gingerbread cake is easier than you might think!

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
• Total time: About 60-65 minutes, which is close to 20% less time than the average cake recipe!

How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt until blended. This mix of aromatic spices will create the foundation of flavor for your cake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the molasses, and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the hot water. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Mix just until smooth; be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centers comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and spices, mixing until creamy and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate, spread a layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Garnish with mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men for a festive touch.

Nutritional Information

A typical slice of gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 25g

This cake is rich and delicious, so be sure to enjoy it in moderation!

Healthier Alternatives for Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make this festive treat more waistline-friendly, consider the following swaps:

• Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener to cut down on sugars.
• Swap traditional cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter frosting.

Serving Suggestions

This gingerbread cake pairs beautifully with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
• Fresh fruit, such as orange slices or cranberries, to balance the sweetness.
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough cake texture. Mix just until combined!
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dense cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting a warm cake can lead to a melted mess; always let them cool completely.

Storing Tips for Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To maintain the freshness of your cake:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If planning to freeze, wrap the frosted cake in plastic wrap and foil; it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Conclusion

Making gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful way to celebrate the festive season. With its aromatic spices and creamy frosting, this cake is bound to become a holiday favorite in your household. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can try using honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and frost it just before serving for the best taste and presentation.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum to mimic the structure of wheat flour.

Is cream cheese frosting necessary?

While the cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang, you can opt for a simple glaze or whipped cream if you prefer.

Now that you have the full rundown, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of this holiday classic.

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