Gingerbread Cake Molasses Frosting: A Delicious Holiday Recipe

Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting: Just the name conjures up images of cozy winter evenings, doesn’t it? Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, warmly spiced cake, its rich flavors perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy molasses frosting. This isn’t just dessert; it’s a hug in cake form!

Gingerbread, in its various forms, has a long and fascinating history, dating back to ancient Greece and Egypt. It evolved over centuries, with each region adding its own unique twist. The addition of molasses, a byproduct of sugar production, became particularly popular in the Americas, lending a deep, robust sweetness to the classic gingerbread flavor. It’s a taste that speaks of tradition and home-baked goodness.

What is it about gingerbread cake with molasses frosting that makes it so irresistible? Perhaps it’s the comforting blend of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that awaken the senses. Or maybe it’s the incredibly moist and tender crumb of the cake itself. And let’s not forget that luscious molasses frosting – a delightful counterpoint to the spices, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful sheen. This gingerbread cake with molasses frosting is surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more!

Ingredients:

• For the Gingerbread Cake:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup hot water
• For the Molasses Frosting:
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ¼ cup unsulfured molasses
• 2-4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Gingerbread Cake

1. Preheat and Prepare: First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use baking spray with flour already in it for extra insurance against sticking. Trust me, nobody wants a gingerbread cake stuck to the pan!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake, giving you that perfect gingerbread flavor in every bite.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color and texture. This step is crucial for creating a tender and moist cake.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps to emulsify the mixture and prevent curdling.
5. Incorporate Molasses: Gradually beat in the molasses until well combined. The mixture will become darker and more fragrant. Don’t skip the molasses! It’s the key ingredient that gives gingerbread its distinctive flavor and color.
6. Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. So, add about a third of the dry ingredients, then half of the buttermilk, then another third of the dry ingredients, then the remaining buttermilk, and finally the remaining dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake.
7. Add Hot Water: Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be quite thin, but don’t worry, that’s normal! The hot water helps to dissolve the spices and create a moist cake.
8. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

Baking the Gingerbread Cake

1. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
2. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting. Otherwise, the frosting will melt!

Preparing the Molasses Frosting

1. Cream Butter: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), cream the softened butter until smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Sifting the powdered sugar is important to prevent lumps in your frosting.
3. Incorporate Molasses and Vanilla: Beat in the molasses, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Adjust Consistency: Gradually add the milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. You may need more or less milk depending on the humidity and the consistency of your butter. I prefer a slightly thicker frosting for this cake, but feel free to adjust it to your liking.

Frosting the Gingerbread Cake

1. Frost: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the molasses frosting evenly over the top. You can use an offset spatula for a smooth finish, or simply use a knife for a more rustic look.
2. Decorate (Optional): If desired, decorate the cake with sprinkles, candied ginger, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Get creative and have fun!
3. Serve: Slice and serve. This gingerbread cake is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also great with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Success:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs will help the ingredients to emulsify properly, resulting in a smoother batter and a more tender cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting.
• Adjust Frosting Consistency: Add more or less milk to the frosting to achieve your desired consistency.
• Storage: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Variations:

• Add Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty flavor and texture.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Make Cupcakes: Pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute the molasses frosting with a cream cheese frosting for a tangy and delicious alternative.
• Lemon Glaze: Instead of frosting, try a simple lemon glaze. Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until you reach a pourable consistency.

Troubleshooting:

• Cake is Dry: Make sure you are not overbaking the cake. Also, ensure you are using the correct amount of liquid ingredients.
• Cake is Dense: Make sure you are not overmixing the batter. Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
• Frosting is Too Thin: Add more powdered sugar to thicken the frosting.
• Frosting is Too Thick: Add more milk or cream to thin the frosting.

This gingerbread cake with molasses frosting is a classic holiday treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s easy to make, and the combination of warm spices and sweet molasses is simply irresistible. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a nostalgic trip to cozy kitchens, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of gingerbread, especially when paired with the unique depth of molasses. The cake itself is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the perfect balance of spices and molasses, and the frosting? Oh, the frosting! It’s not overly sweet, but rather a sophisticated complement to the cake, adding a creamy, rich layer that elevates the entire experience. Why is this a must-try? Because it’s simple enough for a weeknight bake, yet impressive enough for a holiday gathering. It’s a recipe that will fill your kitchen with the most incredible aroma, making everyone who walks through the door instantly feel at home. And let’s be honest, who can resist a slice of perfectly spiced gingerbread cake, especially when it’s adorned with a luscious molasses frosting? But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own. For a festive touch, try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cake batter. A sprinkle of candied ginger on top of the frosting would also be a delightful addition. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even incorporate a hint of orange zest into the frosting for a brighter, more citrusy flavor. Serving suggestions are endless! A simple dusting of powdered sugar is always a classic choice. For a more decadent treat, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. And of course, a warm cup of coffee or tea is the perfect accompaniment to this delightful cake. Imagine enjoying a slice of this Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting on a chilly evening, curled up by the fire with a good book. Pure bliss! Don’t be intimidated by the molasses frosting; it’s surprisingly easy to make. Just be sure to use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. And remember, a little goes a long way! You can always add more molasses to taste, but it’s best to start with a smaller amount and gradually increase it until you reach your desired level of sweetness and depth. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a new favorite in your household. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, and it’s sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake the most delicious Gingerbread Cake with Molasses Frosting you’ve ever tasted! And please, please, please, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I would absolutely love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you make any variations? Did you serve it with anything special? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking! Print