Nana’s Gingerbread Cake

Nana’s Gingerbread Cake is the perfect blend of warmth, spice, and nostalgia. With its tender crumb and rich molasses flavor, this classic cake is ideal for chilly days, family gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting dessert. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar, this gingerbread cake will transport you back to simpler times. The recipe is easy to follow and brings the cozy flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves together in one delightful treat.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the molasses and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

1. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

Step 5: Mix the Batter

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
2. Slowly stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s what makes the cake moist and tender.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve the gingerbread cake warm or at room temperature. Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Cooking Notes

• Molasses: Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. Blackstrap molasses is too bitter for this recipe.
• Baking Pan: You can also use an 8-inch square pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
• Spices: For a more intense spice flavor, increase the ginger to 1 1/2 teaspoons and add a pinch of nutmeg.

Variations

Lemon Glazed Gingerbread Cake

• Once the cake is cooled, drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from 1 cup powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast to the rich molasses flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosted Gingerbread Cake

• Top the cooled cake with a creamy layer of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.

Apple Gingerbread Cake

• Fold 1 cup of finely chopped apples into the batter before baking for an added texture and a hint of natural sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! This gingerbread cake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.

Can I Freeze Gingerbread Cake?

Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What Can I Serve with Gingerbread Cake?

This cake is delicious on its own but can be elevated with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nana’s Gingerbread Cake is a nostalgic and comforting dessert that brings the warmth of spices and molasses to your table. Perfect for holidays or simply cozying up on a cool day, this gingerbread cake is easy to make and sure to delight everyone. Enjoy it plain, topped with cream, or with your favorite glaze for a truly special treat.

Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this warm and spiced delight!