As the chill of autumn settles in and the festive spirit begins to fill the air, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of gingerbread wafting through the kitchen. This Spiced Gingerbread Cake is a delightful twist on the classic, combining the rich flavors of molasses, spices, and a hint of orange zest, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake is sure to become a cherished favorite. Let’s embark on a journey to create this mouthwatering treat that embodies the essence of the season!
Ingredients :
For the Gingerbread Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsulfured molasses
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (or more for desired consistency)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the molasses, buttermilk, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 2: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract, milk, and a pinch of salt, adjusting the milk as needed to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Optional: Decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon, candied ginger, or even a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch of flavor and festivity.
Conclusion :
This Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt celebration of warmth, comfort, and the joyous spirit of the season. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich spices and sweetness, enveloped in the luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a creamy, tangy layer of flavor.
Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter as the rich aroma of gingerbread fills the air. This cake serves not only as a delicious treat but as a centerpiece for creating cherished memories. It invites everyone to take a moment to savor the flavors of the season and relish in the company of loved ones.
Whether you choose to serve it at a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or simply enjoy it with a warm cup of tea on a chilly afternoon, this cake is bound to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. It’s a timeless recipe that can be passed down through generations, evoking nostalgia and joy with every slice.
So, roll up your sleeves and let the spirit of the season inspire you in the kitchen. Bake this delightful gingerbread cake and watch as it transforms your home into a haven of warmth and festive cheer. No matter the occasion, this cake will surely leave a lasting impression and become a beloved tradition for years to come. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love—because good food is best enjoyed with good company!
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
