Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Name: Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting: A Must-Try Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 2 large eggs; 1 cup hot water

Posted on November 9, 2025

DESSERT

Introduction to Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread wafting through my kitchen. This Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is not just a dessert; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and delightful frosting, this cake is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, bringing smiles and sweet memories to your family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

This Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of the holidays. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days. The cake is moist and spiced just right, while the frosting adds a creamy sweetness that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake, providing structure and a soft crumb.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
Ground ginger: A key spice that adds warmth and a zesty kick to the cake.
Ground cinnamon: This beloved spice brings a sweet, aromatic flavor that’s synonymous with the holidays.
Ground cloves: Just a pinch adds depth and a hint of earthiness to the mix.
Salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, moist cake and helps in achieving that light, fluffy texture.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Molasses: The star of the show! It gives the cake its signature flavor and a lovely dark color.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s richness.
Hot water: This helps to dissolve the molasses and creates a smooth batter.

For those looking to customize, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute honey for molasses, though the flavor will differ slightly. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making this delightful Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious cake that will fill your home with the warm scents of the season.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for baking success!

While the oven warms up, grease your cake pan. I like to use a bit of butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake slides out easily later. Trust me, you don’t want to lose any of that deliciousness!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the spices throughout the cake.

As you whisk, take a moment to inhale the fragrant spices. It’s like a warm hug from the holidays!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Don’t rush this step! The air you incorporate here will make your cake light and airy. Plus, it smells heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the molasses and eggs to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.

This rich mixture is the heart of your cake, giving it that signature flavor and moistness. You’ll want to lick the spoon, but save some for the cake!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the hot water. Start and end with the dry ingredients.

This method helps maintain a smooth batter, ensuring your cake rises beautifully. Don’t worry if it looks a bit runny; that’s just how it should be!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

This is where the magic happens! Your kitchen will soon be filled with the irresistible aroma of gingerbread.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooling is crucial! If you frost it too soon, the frosting will melt and slide right off. We want a beautiful finish, after all!

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, let’s whip up that delicious frosting. In a bowl, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and molasses until smooth and creamy.

This frosting is the cherry on top! It adds a sweet, spiced layer that perfectly complements the cake.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Finally, spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake. You can use a spatula or a knife for this.

Once frosted, your Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is ready to serve! Slice it up and watch your loved ones’ faces light up with joy.

Tips for Success

Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Use room temperature butter and eggs for easier mixing.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it ensures the frosting stays put.
For a spicier cake, feel free to add more ginger and cinnamon.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Equipment Needed

Cake pan: A 9×13 inch pan works well, but you can use round pans if you prefer layers.
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes will help with mixing ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for blending dry ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier, but a hand mixer or whisk will do.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting and scraping down the sides of bowls.

Variations of Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative for the frosting.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Chocolate Twist: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolate-gingerbread fusion that’s simply divine.
Fruit-Infused: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a fruity surprise in every bite.

Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch.
Hot Beverages: Pair with spiced chai or a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy experience.
Festive Platter: Serve slices on a decorative platter with holiday-themed garnishes like cinnamon sticks.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices beautifully.

FAQs about Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Can I make this Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just wait to frost it until you’re ready to serve. This way, the flavors have time to meld, making it even more delicious!

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be tasty!

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving!

Can I freeze the Gingerbread Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What drinks pair well with this cake?

This Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like spiced chai, hot cocoa, or even a nice cup of coffee. The flavors complement each other beautifully!

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on this Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting, I can’t help but smile. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of warmth, love, and cherished moments with family. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while baking is a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this cake brings people together. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this recipe as I do. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!