Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of spice and sweetness, this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the rich, molasses-infused depth of classic gingerbread spiced perfectly with a luscious cinnamon molasses frosting that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great dish starts with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create magic. For this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe, each component plays a vital role — from the fragrant spices that awaken your senses to the creamy butter that ensures moistness and richness in every forkful.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The perfect base that gives structure and tenderness to the cake.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: A gentle lift to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with molasses and butters to create a soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: A warm spice that gives gingerbread its signature zesty kick.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way to enrich the spice profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for creaminess both in cake and frosting.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a rich, caramel taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds light sweetness and helps with structure.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while aiding fluffiness.
• 1 cup molasses: The heart of the gingerbread flavor, providing moisture and deep color.
• 1 cup boiling water: Loosens the batter for tender texture and perfect rise.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the spices with subtle sweetness.
• For the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a creamy, dreamy base for the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Essential for sweetness and the smooth frosting texture.
• 1/4 cup molasses: Adds that signature deep, spiced sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the frosting with extra warmth and spice.
• 1 – 2 tablespoons milk or cream: Adjusts consistency to spreadable perfection.
• A pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out perfectly smooth and don’t stick to the sides.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This blend of spices and leavening agents is the backbone of flavor and rise you’ll enjoy in this gingerbread cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and truly heavenly — about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is where you build the cake’s tenderness and moisture.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Molasses, and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs to your airy butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then pour in the molasses and vanilla extract, mixing just until everything is fully combined. This rich liquid melds beautifully with the sugars to bring intense flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the boiling water. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Be gentle in this step—mix only until just combined to keep the crumb soft and tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know your cake is ready when it springs back slightly to the touch.

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. It’s tempting to frost warm cakes, but waiting ensures the frosting won’t melt and slide off.

Step 8: Make the Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

While waiting, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Then add the molasses, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, beating until everything is beautifully combined. If your frosting feels too thick, add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time for the perfect texture.

Step 9: Assemble and Frost Your Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of luscious cinnamon molasses frosting atop, then place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides as desired for a stunning, irresistible finish.

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Now comes the best part — slice into your masterpiece and savor each moist, spiced bite crowned with that creamy, flavorful frosting. Sharing this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe brings happiness to any gathering!

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can elevate the look and flavor of your cake. Sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the frosting for a pretty, aromatic touch. Toasted pecans or crystallized ginger bits add delightful crunch and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a festive spin, serve it alongside spiced hot apple cider or a warm chai latte to complement the complex flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic slice! Try serving small squares as part of a holiday dessert platter or layering it with fresh pear slices and candied nuts for an elevated presentation. Cutting the cake into mini cupcakes topped with piped frosting offers a charming, portable treat perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover leftover gingerbread cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it well wrapped helps preserve moisture and prevents the frosting from drying out.

Freezing

This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap whole or sliced cake layers in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. For best flavor, consume within two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

While the cake can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, gently warming a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds brings back fresh-baked warmth and makes the frosting even more dreamy. Just be careful not to melt the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I use dark molasses instead of regular molasses?

Absolutely! Dark molasses is actually preferred by some for its richer, more robust flavor. It will deepen the spice notes in the cake and make the frosting an even more intense treat.

What can I substitute if I don’t have all the spices?

If you’re missing cloves or cinnamon, you can still proceed with the ginger and whatever you have on hand, but keep in mind the flavor won’t be as complex. Pumpkin pie spice can be a handy substitute since it contains similar warming spices.

Is this cake gluten-free?

The recipe as written uses all-purpose wheat flour, so it isn’t gluten-free. However, you can experiment by substituting a gluten-free flour blend one-to-one. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s texture.

Can I make the frosting dairy-free?

Yes! To make the cinnamon molasses frosting dairy-free, simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. The flavor will still be divine.

How long does the frosting keep in the fridge?

The cinnamon molasses frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before spreading if it becomes firm.

Final Thoughts

Diving into this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a warm embrace of spice and sweetness that’s hard to resist. It’s one of those desserts that feels both nostalgic and fresh, perfect for cozy evenings or festive celebrations. I hope you’ll bake it soon and discover just how comforting and delightful gingerbread can be, especially when paired with that luscious cinnamon molasses frosting. Trust me — your taste buds will thank you.

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