– **2 cups all-purpose flour**
– **1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger**
– **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon**
– **1/2 teaspoon ground cloves**
– **1/2 teaspoon baking soda**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**
– **1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened**
– **1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)**
– **1 large egg**
– **1/2 cup molasses**
– **1/2 cup hot water**
– **1/2 cup milk**
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
**For the Cinnamon Layer**:
– **2 tablespoons ground cinnamon**
– **1/4 cup sugar (or brown sugar for a richer flavor)**
Optional Additions
To further enhance the flavor and texture of your gingerbread cake, consider these optional additions:
– **1/2 cup chopped nuts** (e.g., walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for added texture and richness.
– **1/4 cup finely chopped candied ginger** for extra spiciness and chewiness.
– **Zest of 1 orange or lemon** for a citrusy twist that complements the spices.
– **1/4 cup sour cream or buttermilk** in place of regular milk for a tangy, moist crumb.
– **A drizzle of cream cheese frosting** or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Tips for Success
1. **Use fresh spices**: To achieve the best flavor, ensure your spices—particularly the ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—are fresh. Old spices can dull the flavor.
2. **Don’t overmix**: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated to avoid a tough texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
3. **Room temperature ingredients**: Ensure your butter, egg, and milk are at room temperature before you start, as this helps them combine smoothly.
4. **Molasses quality**: Choose a good-quality molasses (unsulfured) for the richest flavor. If you want a more pronounced molasses taste, opt for a dark or robust variety.
5. **Test for doneness**: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Instructions
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare dry ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream the butter and sugar**: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add wet ingredients**: Beat in the egg, followed by the molasses and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. **Alternate adding dry ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the hot water and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
6. **Prepare the cinnamon layer**: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
7. **Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. **Serve**: Once cooled, serve the cake as is, or with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or your favorite frosting.
Description
This gingerbread cake is soft, moist, and filled with a deep, spiced flavor. The rich layer of cinnamon sugar adds a delightful sweetness and complexity to the cake’s texture, creating a contrast between the spiced batter and the aromatic cinnamon swirl. The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon gives the cake a warming, comforting aroma, perfect for cozy moments or holiday gatherings. The cake has a tender crumb and a slight chewiness, especially if you use brown sugar, giving it a rich depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Slice)
– **Calories**: 200-250 kcal
– **Fat**: 8-12g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30-35g
– **Sugars**: 20g
– **Protein**: 2g
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sodium**: 100-150mg
– **Calcium**: 2-4% of the Daily Value
– **Iron**: 4-6% of the Daily Value
*Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on optional additions and serving size.*
Conclusion
Delicious gingerbread cake with a rich layer of cinnamon is a perfect blend of sweetness, spice, and warmth. The moist crumb, spiced to perfection, is complemented by the rich cinnamon swirl, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday celebration, a family gathering, or simply a cozy weekend treat, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Recommendation
This gingerbread cake is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic holiday flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Whether you choose to keep it simple or add a decorative touch, the cake is sure to impress. Embrace the healthful indulgence of this moist and flavorful gingerbread cake, and enjoy the comforting spices that make it an evergreen favorite.
