Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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If you’re craving a cozy dessert that wraps you up in warm spices and velvety sweetness, this Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the perfect balance of tender, moist gingerbread richness paired with a luscious, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon treat, this cake brings comfort, charm, and that nostalgic feeling of freshly baked goodness right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for ingredients that might seem familiar but combine to create something truly special. Each one plays a crucial role: from the sharpness of ginger to the deep molasses flavor that gives the cake its signature warmth, these elements come together effortlessly.

• 2 cups flour: The sturdy base that holds all the wonderful flavors together with the perfect texture.
• 1 ½ tsp ground ginger: Brings the vibrant, spicy kick essential to gingerbread.
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a subtly sweet and nutty depth to the spice blend.
• ½ tsp ground cloves: Intensifies the warmth with its rich, aromatic essence.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: The classic spice that rounds out the gingerbread flavor beautifully.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
• ¼ tsp kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the spices.
• 1 ¾ cups light brown sugar: Ensures moisture and adds a gentle caramel undertone.
• ¼ cup molasses: The heart of gingerbread’s signature dark sweetness and complexity.
• 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cake.
• 1 cup water: Moisturizes and helps meld flavors together perfectly.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Contributes a slight tanginess that brightens the cake’s flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and lightness for a soft bite.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting: 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened – delivers that creamy tang that’s the perfect contrast to the spicy cake.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a smooth, rich base for the frosting.
• 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds fragrant sweetness to the frosting.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
• 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream: Gives the frosting a luscious, airy texture.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon plus extra to sprinkle: Infuses the frosting with warming spice and a final dusting adds beautiful presentation.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with baking spray. This helps ensure your cake releases easily once baked without any sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a large bowl and whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, kosher salt, and light brown sugar. This blend of dry ingredients makes sure every bite of this Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is packed with that signature spice and sweet punch.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Combine with Molasses and Water

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, water, and molasses. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. This step unlocks the rich molasses flavor while warming the liquids for easier integration with the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warm saucepan mixture. The batter will thicken as these combine, which means you’re moments away from that incredible gingerbread aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 5: Let Batter Cool and Add Remaining Ingredients

Remove the pan from heat and allow the batter to cool slightly so it doesn’t cook your eggs when added. Once cooled a bit, whisk in the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and evenly combined – perfectly ready for the oven.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and place it on a cookie sheet (this catches any drips). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before moving on to frosting – patience here will pay off in flavor and texture.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a stand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fluffy. This frosting is the decadent, tangy, cinnamon-kissed finish that makes this Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly irresistible.

Step 8: Frost and Sprinkle

Spread the creamy frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top for a beautiful and aromatic touch that invites you to dig right in.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Slice, serve, and savor the cozy magic of this gingerbread delight, freshly made with love.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your cake’s presentation by adding a few festive touches. Consider a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon. For the holidays, a few candied ginger pieces or chopped toasted pecans on top add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with warm drinks like spiced chai, a robust cup of coffee, or hot apple cider. Serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can add another creamy layer to your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your cake into a layered dessert by cutting it into squares and stacking with extra frosting and fruit preserves between layers. Or, pop individual slices onto pretty dessert plates and drizzle with a bit of caramel or melted chocolate for an indulgent twist that makes every bite a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and creamy. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

This cake freezes well! To prep for freezing, slice into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its soft texture and luscious frosting.

Reheating

For a warmed slice, let the cake come to room temperature first. Then, gently heat in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to bring out that ooey-gooey cream cheese frosting warmth without melting it completely. This replay of freshly baked comfort will remind you just how magical this Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly is.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While regular milk can work in a pinch, buttermilk adds a subtle tang that offsets the sweetness and enriches the cake’s texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes as a quick substitute.

What makes this Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe different from others?

It’s the perfect harmony of deep molasses flavor, warm spices, and a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting that sets this recipe apart. The frosting’s touch of cinnamon is a special twist that beautifully complements the cake’s spices, making each bite comforting and unforgettable.

Is this recipe suitable for a holiday party?

Absolutely! This gingerbread cake is a festive showstopper that’s easy to make and serves a crowd. Its rich, spicy flavor and creamy frosting bring that cozy holiday spirit to any gathering, making it a crowd favorite.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes! The batter can be portioned into cupcake liners and baked at 350 degrees for about 15 to 18 minutes. Just keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick for doneness. Frost as directed for a delightful individual treat.

How do I get the frosting so smooth and fluffy?

Room temperature cream cheese and butter are key to smooth, fluffy frosting. Beat them together first until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Using heavy whipping cream helps lighten the frosting for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is like a warm hug in dessert form. It’s a wonderful way to bring folks together around a slice of something both comforting and special. Whether you’re an experienced baker or giving this a try for the first time, I encourage you to dive right in. You’ll end up with a cake that tastes like the holidays baked into every bite, and that’s a feeling worth sharing.

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