Introduction

This Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is a perfect holiday treat that blends warm spices with rich molasses for a moist, flavorful dessert. Topped with a creamy, spiced frosting, it’s sure to fill your kitchen with cozy aromas and delight your family and friends.

A thick slice of two-layer brown cake sits on a white textured plate, each layer rich and crumbly with a spongy texture. Between the layers is a smooth, thick white frosting, and the top is covered with a creamy white glaze dripping down the sides. Over the white glaze, amber caramel sauce streams slowly, adding a shiny, sticky contrast. Small bits of crunchy brown topping decorate the peak, giving the slice extra texture. The background is softly blurred with warm lights in golden and green tones, set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
2 large eggs
1 cup hot water
For the frosting:
- Softened butter
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon
- Molasses

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the molasses and eggs to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and molasses together until smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife. Slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature butter and eggs for easier mixing and better texture.
For a spicier cake, increase the amounts of ginger and cinnamon.
Try adding chopped nuts or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Substitute honey or maple syrup for molasses if needed; the flavor will be milder.
For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
To make it vegan, use flaxseed eggs and a plant-based butter alternative.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Let refrigerated cake come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months; thaw in the fridge overnight before use.

How to Serve

A close-up slice of two-layer brown carrot cake on a white plate, with a creamy white frosting layer sandwiched in the middle and thick white icing dripping down the sides, topped with golden caramel drizzle and a crumbly brown streusel. The background is softly blurred with warm, festive bokeh lights and holiday decor on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this Gingerbread Cake Cinnamon Molasses Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Frost it just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and stable.

What can I substitute for molasses?

Honey or maple syrup can be used as substitutes for molasses. While the flavor will be slightly different, the cake will still be delicious.