Sarah BrownAs the chill settles in and the leaves begin to change colors, there’s little more comforting than a slice of warm gingerbread cake paired with a steaming cup of tea. I can’t help but think about hosting friends and family, gathering around the table, crisp winter air giving way to warmth and laughter. Picture this: a dense, spiced cake that smells of cinnamon, ginger, and clove wafting through the air, especially when drizzled with a luscious vanilla cream sauce and fresh bananas. Trust me; it’s a combination that invites everyone to take just one more slice.
Gingerbread cake is not just a dessert; it’s a hug from the inside. The perfect blend of spices brings a sense of cozy nostalgia, embodying the essence of the holiday season. This cake arrives with a lovely density, a warm flavor profile, and is dressed up in a creamy vanilla sauce that takes it to another level. It’s not just festive; it’s a celebration in every bite!
You Might Also Like These Recipes!
What is Gingerbread Cake Recipe?
A gingerbread cake is typically a sweet cake made with a mix of ginger and other spices like cinnamon and cloves. Unlike gingerbread cookies, which are often cut into shapes, this cake takes on a fluffy, yet satisfying texture that captures all the holiday flavors. Often adorned with whipped cream, bananas, or even frostings, these variations cater to personal taste, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Gingerbread Cake Recipes?
What sets this gingerbread cake apart is the addition of homemade vanilla cream sauce, which adds a velvety richness to each slice. It’s made from simple, accessible ingredients and gives a hint of luxury to such a classic. With the infusion of molten molasses and the choice of whole spices, this gingerbread is undeniably fragrant and comforting, without being overly sweet. I’ve crafted it to be both appealing and easy to whip up, even for those busy weeknights leading into the holiday rush.
How Does It Taste?
Imagine sinking your fork into a slice; the outside has a slight crispness, while the inside is tender and moist. Each bite delivers a balanced flavor of warm spices and rich molasses without overwhelming sweetness. Topped with fresh bananas and the creamy sauce, the tastes mingle beautifully, creating a dish that sings with flavor—sweet, spicy, and indulgent—all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Gingerbread Cake:
– 1 cup unsulphured molasses
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup softened butter
– 1 large beaten egg
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
– 1 cup very hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (adds a warm undertone)
– Zest of 1 orange (for a citrus twist)
– Bananas, sliced, for topping
– Fresh whipped cream, for topping
Vanilla Cream Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup butter (1 stick)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
How to Make Gingerbread Cake Recipe?
Making this gingerbread cake is a straightforward journey, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. It’s all about mixing wet and dry ingredients in a way that creates a harmonious batter, then watching it rise to delightful perfection in the oven. Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this holiday favorite!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly greased it with cooking spray, ensuring your cake won’t stick later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar. You want a smooth and fluffy texture here, usually around 2-3 minutes of mixing will do the trick.
Step 3: Mix in Egg and Molasses
Once your butter and sugar are well-mixed, add the beaten egg and molasses. This is great to incorporate and will give your batter a lovely deep color and flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, take the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt, and whisk them together until combined. This isn’t just for mixing; it helps evenly distribute the leavening agents for a perfect rise!
Step 5: Bring it Together
Add the dry mixture into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Gradually pour in the hot water, mixing until the batter is smooth (it will be a bit on the thin side, but that’s what you’re looking for!).
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean. If you hit some resistance but it’s still lightly moist, that’s okay!
Step 7: Make the Vanilla Cream Sauce
While the cake is baking, prepare the vanilla cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and heavy whipping cream over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter melts completely. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it bubble for about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 8: Serve
After the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, cut it into squares. Serve warm, topped with fresh sliced bananas, a generous dollop of whipped cream, and that luxurious vanilla cream sauce. The cake is best enjoyed right away, but it can also hold its own for days to come.
Tips & Tricks on Making Gingerbread Cake Recipe
– Use Fresh Spices: The fresher your ground spices, the more flavorful your cake will be. Consider using whole spices and grinding them yourself for an intense flavor.
– Don’t Skip the Hot Water: The hot water and molasses react with the flour, ensuring the cake turns out moist and fluffy.
– Test for Doneness: Just because the minimum bake time is 25 minutes doesn’t mean it will be done then—keep checking!
– Add Some Nuts: For a nice crunch, toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
– Experiment with Toppings: Apart from bananas, you could use poached pears, candied ginger, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful finish!
How Do I Store This Dish?
To store leftover gingerbread cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it can last up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to wrap it well to keep it fresh.
Nutrition Information
Each slice of gingerbread cake offers roughly 290 calories and contains a mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a gratifying treat. With the addition of bananas and cream, it becomes slightly more nutritious, offering vitamins and healthy fats alongside those delicious spices.
Serving Suggestions
– Warm with Whipped Cream: A classic that never gets old!
– With a Dollop of Yogurt: Swap the whipped cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
– Pair with Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream adds a creamy element.
– Crumbled Over Pancakes: Use leftover cake crumbles to top your breakfast pancakes for a delightful upgrade.
– Serve with Peppermint Tea: The warm spices complement the refreshing flavor beautifully.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Gingerbread Cake Recipe?
– Molasses: If molasses isn’t available, try using dark corn syrup or honey, though the flavor will differ slightly.
– All-purpose Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend to boost nutritional value.
– Butter: Coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce can replace butter for a dairy-free version.
– Heavy Cream: For a lighter version of the sauce, use half-and-half or almond milk.
– Egg: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can substitute for the egg if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Gingerbread Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- rubber spatula
Ingredients
Gingerbread Cake:
- 1 cup unsulphured molasses
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup softened butter
- 1 large beaten egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 cup very hot water
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg adds a warm undertone
- Zest of 1 orange for a citrus twist
- Bananas sliced, for topping
- Fresh whipped cream for topping
Vanilla Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup butter 1 stick
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly greased it with cooking spray, ensuring your cake won’t stick later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar. You want a smooth and fluffy texture here, usually around 2-3 minutes of mixing will do the trick.
Step 3: Mix in Egg and Molasses
- Once your butter and sugar are well-mixed, add the beaten egg and molasses. This is great to incorporate and will give your batter a lovely deep color and flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, take the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt, and whisk them together until combined. This isn’t just for mixing; it helps evenly distribute the leavening agents for a perfect rise!
Step 5: Bring it Together
- Add the dry mixture into your wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Gradually pour in the hot water, mixing until the batter is smooth (it will be a bit on the thin side, but that’s what you’re looking for!).
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth out the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean. If you hit some resistance but it’s still lightly moist, that’s okay!
Step 7: Make the Vanilla Cream Sauce
- While the cake is baking, prepare the vanilla cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and heavy whipping cream over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter melts completely. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it bubble for about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 8: Serve
- After the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, cut it into squares. Serve warm, topped with fresh sliced bananas, a generous dollop of whipped cream, and that luxurious vanilla cream sauce. The cake is best enjoyed right away, but it can also hold its own for days to come.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I make this gingerbread cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure your baking soda is also gluten-free.
2. What’s the best way to reheat gingerbread cake?
You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Just make sure to cover it to keep it moist.
3. Can I freeze the vanilla cream sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce! Just place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
4. How can I tell if the cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached when it’s fully baked. Also, the edges will start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
5. Can I make this gingerbread cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake this cake the day before serving, just store it covered at room temperature. You can also make the sauce ahead and warm it when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Baking this gingerbread cake will fill your home with delightful scents and warmth, creating an experience that goes beyond just the taste. With its comforting spices and rich texture, it’s sure to become a staple on your holiday dessert table or whenever you need a touch of coziness. Whether you share it with friends or savor it alone, it’s a treat that promises to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. So, grab your ingredients, whip up this recipe, and indulge in a slice of holiday magic!
You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!
