Gingerbread Cake

Everyone loves this Gingerbread Cake recipe topped with vanilla cream sauce, bananas, and whipped cream. It’s perfect for the holidays and can easily become a family favorite. This delightful cake is moist, spiced just right, and offers a warm, comforting flavor that suits any festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious cake in the oven before you know it.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices like ginger and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Versatile Toppings: Whether you prefer fresh bananas or whipped cream, this cake pairs wonderfully with various toppings for personalized enjoyment.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying with loved ones at home.
• Easy to Make from Scratch: Simple steps make this gingerbread cake accessible for bakers of all levels.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure your Gingerbread Cake turns out beautifully.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, enhancing texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping bowl sides and ensuring no ingredient is left behind.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Gingerbread Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 cup unsulphered molasses
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup very hot water

For Toppings

• Bananas (for topping)
• Fresh whipped cream (for topping)

For Vanilla Cream Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

How to Make Gingerbread Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter until smooth and light. This will help create a fluffy texture in your cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the beaten egg and unsulphered molasses to the creamed mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together the following dry ingredients:
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/2 teaspoon salt

Combine these dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually.

Step 5: Add Hot Water

Slowly pour in the very hot water while stirring until smooth. The batter will be thin; that’s perfectly fine!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 to 35 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, serve warm topped with fresh sliced bananas, whipped cream, and drizzle with vanilla cream sauce for an extra treat! Enjoy your delightful Gingerbread Cake!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread Cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and joy, especially during the holiday season. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sliced Bananas – Fresh bananas add a fruity sweetness that complements the spiced cake beautifully.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream provides a rich texture to balance the gingerbread’s flavors.
• Vanilla Cream Sauce – Drizzling vanilla cream sauce enhances the cake with a creamy, sweet touch.

Festive Additions

• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Dried Fruits – Add dried cranberries or apricots for tangy bursts of flavor that contrast with the cake’s sweetness.
• Chocolate Shavings – For chocolate lovers, topping with dark chocolate shavings creates a decadent finish.

Serving Ideas

• Layered Parfait – Create a layered dessert by alternating cake pieces with whipped cream and banana slices in a glass.
• Warm Dessert Bowl – Serve warm slices in bowls topped with cream sauce for a cozy presentation.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Cake

Perfecting your Gingerbread Cake is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Spices – Fresh ground spices bring out more intense flavors in your cake. Check expiration dates on your spices for optimal taste.
• Measure Accurately – Ensure you measure both dry and wet ingredients accurately to maintain the right batter consistency.
• Check Oven Temperature – An oven thermometer helps ensure your oven bakes evenly at the correct temperature for perfect doneness.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture. A few lumps are okay!
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors and improve texture.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Cake

While Gingerbread Cake is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Applesauce – A warm bowl of spiced applesauce adds sweetness and pairs well with ginger flavors.
2. Cinnamon Roasted Pears – These sweet, tender pears make an elegant side that complements the spices in the cake.
3. Caramelized Nuts – Crunchy caramelized nuts offer a sweet contrast, adding texture alongside each slice of gingerbread.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture balances the spice of the cake, creating an interesting combination on your plate.
5. Roasted Root Vegetables – Sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips roasted with herbs provide earthy flavors that pair nicely with gingerbread.
6. Herbed Green Salad – A light salad with citrus dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Gingerbread Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar, and liquid measuring cups for molasses and water.

• Boldly skipping the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar properly adds air to the batter. Make sure to beat them until light and fluffy for a better texture.

• Boldly ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cake as it approaches the lower end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.

• Boldly using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend more easily. Allow butter and eggs to sit out before starting your mix.

• Boldly overlooking cooling time: Letting the cake cool in the pan can create sogginess. After baking, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Gingerbread Cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Gingerbread Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Gingerbread Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gingerbread Cake that can help you achieve the best results.

How do I make my Gingerbread Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding spices like nutmeg or allspice. Fresh grated ginger also adds a nice kick!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in this Gingerbread Cake?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

What is the best way to serve Gingerbread Cake?

Serve it warm topped with bananas, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of vanilla cream sauce for extra indulgence.

How long does Gingerbread Cake last after baking?

When stored correctly, it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cake recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Its rich flavors pair beautifully with various toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream, making it versatile for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins—enjoy creating your delicious version!