Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake

From the moment the scent of spiced gingerbread wafts through the kitchen, it feels like Christmas. This Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake is a heartfelt celebration of the season, blending deep flavors of molasses, ginger, and warm spices. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this cake invites you to indulge in its moist, fluffy layers topped with your favorite festive decorations. Having whipped this up to share with loved ones, I can assure you, it brings joy and sweet memories to every table.

Why you’ll love this dish

The allure of this gingerbread cake goes far beyond its festive flavor. It’s a quintessential recipe that encapsulates the warmth and cheer of holiday gatherings. Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers a comforting sweetness that appeals to both young and old. This cake can be prepared without breaking the bank, making it a budget-friendly choice for holiday baking. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this cake is the perfect treat to brighten up your winter evenings.

"I made this gingerbread cake for our annual holiday party, and it was a hit! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. It’s now a staple in our holiday traditions!" – A satisfied home baker

Step-by-step overview

Making this Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake is a straightforward process that allows for a delightful baking experience. You’ll start by mixing the dry ingredients, then combine them with creamy butter and sugar for a rich batter. With just a few simple steps, your kitchen will be filled with the festive aroma of spices, signaling the delicious cake that’s about to emerge from the oven.

What you’ll need

To create this warming gingerbread cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup molasses
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar for a lighter flavor, or swap in a gluten-free flour blend if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring your cake pan will prevent sticking.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.

3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the molasses and eggs to the butter-sugar mix, whisking until fully incorporated.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water. Mix until everything is just combined; over-mixing can lead to a denser cake.

6. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Best ways to enjoy it

This gingerbread cake is incredibly versatile. Serve it dusted with powdered sugar for a simple finish, or top it with a rich cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert. For a delightful pairing, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Adding festive toppings like crushed candy canes or candied ginger can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, it freezes beautifully; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Always remember to handle food safely and avoid letting it sit out for extended periods.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing; this will help create a lighter cake. If you find the batter is too thick, you can add a bit more hot water to achieve the desired consistency. And don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your palate – maybe add a touch more ginger for an extra kick!

Creative twists

Looking to personalize your Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake? Consider adding some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. You could also fold in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness. For a twist on the classic, try incorporating orange zest or swapping in different spices according to your taste preferences.

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to prepare this gingerbread cake?
Preparation time is about 20-30 minutes, with baking taking an additional 30-35 minutes.

2. Can I substitute the molasses?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey, though this will change the flavor slightly.

3. Is it possible to make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend for an equally delicious outcome.

4. How can I serve leftovers?
Leftovers can be toasted for a deliciously warm treat, paired with butter or jam for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

5. Can I decorate the cake in advance?
Sure! You can frost or top the cake a day ahead, just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Your Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake awaits—get ready to savor the spirit of the holidays with every delicious slice!

Easy Christmas Gingerbread Cake

A festive and flavorful gingerbread cake making it perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring layers of moist cake topped with your favorite decorations.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Holiday, Snack

Cuisine American, Baked Goods

Servings 12 slices

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is at room temperature for best results.
• 1 cup brown sugar Can substitute with granulated sugar for a lighter flavor.
• 1 cup molasses Can be substituted with maple syrup or honey.
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup hot water Add more if the batter is too thick.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour your cake pan to prevent sticking.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt) until well combined.
• In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the molasses and eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water, mixing until just combined.
• Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

This cake can be topped with powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting. For added texture, consider adding nuts or dried fruits.

Keyword Christmas Dessert, Easy Cake Recipe, Festive Cake, Gingerbread Cake, Holiday Baking