Introduction
The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious gingerbread cake? This classic dessert has been a favorite for generations, and for good reason. The warm, spicy flavor of gingerbread is the perfect complement to the chilly winter weather. Plus, who can resist the cozy smell of gingerbread baking in the oven? In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make a gingerbread cake that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To make this gingerbread cake, you will need the following ingredients: – 2 cups all-purpose flour – 1 teaspoon baking soda – 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger – 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon salt – 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – 1/2 cup granulated sugar – 1/2 cup molasses – 2 large eggs, room temperature – 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or cooking spray. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until well combined. 3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. 4. Add molasses and beat until well combined. 5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. 6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with hot water, and beating on low speed until just combined. 7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. 8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. 9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
This gingerbread cake recipe yields 9 servings. Each serving contains approximately: – Calories: 356 – Fat: 16g – Sodium: 212mg – Carbohydrates: 51g – Fiber: 1g – Sugar: 28g – Protein: 4g
Cooking Time
This gingerbread cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake.
Equipment
To make this gingerbread cake, you will need the following equipment: – 9-inch square baking pan – Medium bowl – Large bowl – Electric mixer – Whisk – Spatula – Wire rack
Serving Suggestions
This gingerbread cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Variations
If you want to mix things up, try adding chopped crystallized ginger to the batter for an extra burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the cake before serving for a festive touch.
Substitutions
If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup. You can also use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
Storage
This gingerbread cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Tips
– Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the batter. This will help them incorporate more easily and create a smoother texture. – Don’t overmix the batter or the cake will be tough. Mix until just combined. – To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. – Let the cake cool completely before cutting into it.
Notes
– This recipe can easily be doubled to make a larger cake. – If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought gingerbread spice mix instead of measuring out individual spices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the cake will be slightly different.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine instead of butter, the flavor and texture of the cake may be affected.
Can I use a different size pan?
If you don’t have a 9-inch square baking pan, you can use an 8-inch or 10-inch square pan. Just keep in mind that the baking time may need to be adjusted.
Conclusion
This recipe for a gingerbread cake is the perfect way to add some warmth and spice to your holiday season. With its delicious flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. So why not give it a try and see for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you!