There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the first bite of a Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves awaken memories of cozy winters, where I would snuggle indoors while the aroma of freshly baked goods danced through the air. One day, while searching for a way to upgrade my usual dessert routine, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe that not only elevates holiday gatherings but also serves as a comforting treat any time of the year.
This cake isn’t just a sweet indulgence; it’s about bringing people together — the kind of dessert that sparks joy and creates lasting memories around the dining table. The moist, spiced cake pairs beautifully with a creamy, tangy frosting, transforming it into a crowd-pleaser that’s deceptively simple to make. In just a little over an hour, you can have a beautiful, delicious treat that rivals those from any bakery. Ready to bake and embrace the warmth of home-cooked goodness? Let’s dive in!
Why is Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting amazing?
Nostalgic Flavors: This gingerbread cake is infused with warm spices that remind you of cozy holiday memories.
Irresistible Creaminess: The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious, tangy layer, perfectly balancing the cake’s sweetness.
Ease of Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this cake is simple and straightforward, making it a perfect choice for bakers of all levels.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether for celebrations or cozy family dinners, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Year-Round Delight: Enjoy this comforting dessert anytime, not just during the holidays—it’s the kind of treat that brings happiness all year!
Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
• Everything you need for gingerbread delight!
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – for the perfect cake structure
2 teaspoons ground ginger – adds that signature spiciness
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – brings warmth to every bite
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – a touch of cozy flavor
½ teaspoon ground cloves – deepens the spice profile
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda – ensures the cake rises beautifully
½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – for richness and moisture
½ cup vegetable oil – adds tenderness to the cake
1 cup packed brown sugar – introduces a lovely caramel flavor
2 large eggs – binds everything together
¾ cup molasses – provides deep color and flavor
1 cup hot water – helps to dissolve molasses and lightens the batter
8 oz cream cheese (softened) – creates a creamy frosting base
½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – adds velvety texture to frosting
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor
1 tablespoon molasses – brings more of that warm flavor into the frosting
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – complements the gingerbread theme
¾ teaspoon ground ginger – intensifies the spice in frosting
¼ teaspoon ground cloves – rounds out the frosting flavor
3 ½ cups powdered sugar – sweetens and thickens the frosting
Mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men – for playful garnishing!
How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your gingerbread cake. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
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Combine the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt until well blended. This aromatic mix sets the stage for flavor!
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Cream together the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and packed brown sugar in another bowl. Beat them until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes, which adds richness to the cake.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should look creamy and well incorporated, which ensures your cake has a lovely, airy texture.
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Stir in the molasses and hot water until fully combined. This step will create a beautifully moist batter with deep flavors that scream comfort!
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep that light, tender texture we all love in a good cake.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. The batter should be thick and spread evenly, ready for the oven!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be a lovely golden brown, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Cool the cake completely on a wire rack before frosting. This step is crucial, as it allows the cake to set properly and prevents the frosting from melting.
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Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. The texture should be creamy and velvety, ready to spread.
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Mix in the vanilla extract, molasses, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves until well blended. These spices will enhance the lovely flavors in your frosting.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. It should have a perfect consistency for spreading over your cake.
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Frost the cooled gingerbread cake generously with the cream cheese frosting. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth it out—make it your own!
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Garnish with mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men if desired, adding a fun touch to your beautiful cake creation.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations
Feel free to get creative with your gingerbread cake and customize it to your liking!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful version without gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese for a scrumptious vegan twist, ensuring everyone can enjoy this cake.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth and unexpected heat.
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Fruity Delight: Mix in ¾ cup of chopped apples or pears for a moist and fruity surprise that enhances the spice flavors.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey gingerbread cake that will steal the show.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in a cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the spices.
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Maple Frosting: Replace the molasses in the frosting with maple syrup for a sweet, earthy twist that adds another layer of depth to each slice.
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Peppermint Twist: Stir in a few drops of peppermint extract to the frosting for a refreshing holiday-inspired flavor that pairs excellent with the warm spices.
Storage Tips for Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Room Temperature: Store the gingerbread cake at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture and freshness.
- Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 1 week, again ensuring it’s well covered to prevent drying out. Before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap the gingerbread cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy!
- Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave your piece for 10–15 seconds. The comforting flavors of the gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting will shine through, giving you that fresh-baked experience!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
There’s something special about pairing the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread with delightful accompaniments to create a cozy dining experience.
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Hot Apple Cider: The sweet and tart notes of apple cider complement the cake’s spices, creating a warm, nostalgic atmosphere.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch that balances the richness of the cream cheese frosting beautifully.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea enhance the flavors of the gingerbread, making each bite a comforting delight.
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Candied Ginger: This adds an exciting zing and chewy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft cake, elevating each mouthful.
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Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream melty on top of the warm cake is pure bliss, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
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Mini Gingerbread Cookies: For a fun twist, serve with the cookies garnished on top or alongside your cake to enhance your festivity and enjoy a double gingerbread treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake it, let it cool completely, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, take the cake out, frost it with the chilled frosting, and garnish as desired. This way, you’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Tips for the Best Gingerbread Cake
- Ingredient Room Temperature: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy frosting that spreads beautifully.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense and tough.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference—check expiration dates on your ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for maximum flavor in your Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Cool Completely: Always let the cake cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the cream cheese frosting may melt and slide off, losing that beautiful presentation.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, adjust the powdered sugar to taste, keeping in mind that the gingerbread cake itself is already sweet and flavorful.
Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of molasses should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using unsulfured molasses, as it has a cleaner flavor and is perfect for baking. Blackstrap molasses can be a bit too robust and might overpower the other spices in your Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
How should I store leftover gingerbread cake?
Store the gingerbread cake at room temperature for up to 3 days, making sure to cover it with plastic wrap or a cake dome to keep it moist. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but remember to take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring back its flavor.
Can I freeze the gingerbread cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled gingerbread cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw, and you can even warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds!
What should I do if my cake batter is too thick?
If you find your batter is too thick, add a little more hot water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a pourable consistency. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can affect the cake texture! Also, make sure to mix it gently to avoid overworking the batter.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re concerned about allergies, note that this recipe contains gluten (flour), dairy (butter and cream cheese), and eggs. For dairy-free options, you could use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and a plant-based butter. If you have a gluten intolerance, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and remember to double-check all labels for other allergens!
How do I know when my gingerbread cake is done baking?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done! Timing can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye from around 30 minutes onward. Enjoy your Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
The Best Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Ever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl: all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and packed brown sugar in another bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the molasses and hot water until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, molasses, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves until well blended.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled gingerbread cake generously with the cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish with mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men if desired.
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