Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting – A Cozy Holiday Classic
Few desserts capture the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season quite like gingerbread cake. Deeply spiced, rich with molasses, and wonderfully moist, this gingerbread cake with cinnamon molasses frosting feels like everything comforting about winter wrapped into one beautiful dessert. From the moment it goes into the oven, the kitchen fills with the familiar aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—an instant invitation to slow down and savor the season.
Gingerbread has a long history rooted in festive traditions, and this cake version offers all the beloved flavors in a softer, more tender form. Instead of crisp cookies or dense loaves, this cake bakes up fluffy yet substantial, with a crumb that stays moist for days. The spices are warm and balanced, never overpowering, letting the molasses shine with its deep, slightly smoky sweetness.
What truly sets this cake apart is the cinnamon molasses frosting. Creamy, smooth, and lightly spiced, it echoes the flavors of the cake while adding a luxurious finish. The touch of molasses in the frosting enhances the gingerbread flavor without making it heavy, while cinnamon adds warmth and familiarity. Together, the cake and frosting create a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting, perfect for holiday gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire.
This gingerbread cake is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a simple sheet cake for a casual gathering or dress it up on a cake stand for a festive centerpiece. It’s equally suited for Christmas celebrations, winter birthdays, or anytime you’re craving something cozy and nostalgic.
Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter
- Brown sugar
- Molasses
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ground ginger
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves
- Milk or buttermilk
Cinnamon Molasses Frosting:
- Cream cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar
- Molasses
- Ground cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven and grease a baking pan.
- Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in molasses, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in molasses, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Frost the cooled cake generously and slice to serve.
Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream butter and sugar, then mix in molasses, eggs, and vanilla.
- Whisk dry ingredients and add alternately with milk.
- Bake until set and cool completely.
- Beat frosting ingredients until smooth and frost cake.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
Use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor—blackstrap molasses can be too bitter. Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added; this keeps the cake tender. If you want extra depth, let the cake rest overnight before frosting.
Variations
- Orange-Spiced Gingerbread: Add orange zest to the batter or frosting.
- Nutty Gingerbread Cake: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
- Layer Cake Version: Double the frosting and bake in two round pans.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve gingerbread cake slightly chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, chai, or hot cocoa. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even more indulgent.
Storage Information
Store the frosted cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the cake actually tastes better the next day.
Can I freeze gingerbread cake?
Freeze unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
Is molasses necessary?
Yes, it’s essential for authentic gingerbread flavor.
History / Fun Facts
Gingerbread dates back centuries and was originally made with honey before molasses became common. Over time, gingerbread evolved into cakes and cookies that became synonymous with winter celebrations across Europe and North America.
