Get ready to fall in love with the perfect winter dessert that will warm your heart and soul. The Smitten Kitchen Gingerbread Cake is a classic recipe that will make any baker feel like a pro. With its rich, spicy flavor and moist texture, it’s the perfect treat for those cold, cozy nights. So, let’s get started with the recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark molasses
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch cake pan, or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the molasses and beat until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the hot water and vegetable oil, and beat until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.
- Serve with whipped cream, frosting, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 304
Total Fat: 12.1g
Saturated Fat: 5.9g
Cholesterol: 63mg
Sodium: 206mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44.5g
Dietary Fiber: 1.1g
Sugars: 22.4g
Protein: 4.4g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Equipment
- 9-inch cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Wire rack
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also try frosting it with a cream cheese frosting or dusting it with powdered sugar.
Variations
If you want to mix things up a bit, you can try adding chopped nuts, raisins, or candied ginger to the batter. You can also substitute the hot water with brewed coffee for a richer flavor.
Substitutions
If you don’t have dark molasses, you can use light molasses or honey instead. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or melted butter.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully to ensure the best results.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing it to prevent it from falling apart.
- You can also bake this recipe in a bundt pan or as cupcakes.
Notes
This recipe is adapted from the Smitten Kitchen cookbook by Deb Perelman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Just make sure to use a blend that’s specifically designed for baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can use a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. You can also use a plant-based milk instead of hot water.
Personal Thoughts
This Smitten Kitchen Gingerbread Cake recipe is a real winner. The cake is moist, spicy, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect dessert for the holiday season, but it’s also great year-round. I love how easy it is to make, and how versatile it is. You can serve it on its own, or dress it up with your favorite toppings. I highly recommend giving this recipe a try!
To summarize, the Smitten Kitchen Gingerbread Cake is a classic recipe that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. It’s perfect for any occasion, and can be dressed up or down depending on your preference. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious it is!
Now, it’s your turn to bake this amazing cake and share your thoughts with us in the comments below. Happy baking!