Description
This classic Gingerbread recipe delivers a soft, moist cake infused with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Sweetened with rich molasses and baked to perfection, it’s an ideal cozy dessert for holidays or anytime a comforting treat is desired.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1½ teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup molasses
- 1 cup hot water
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures the spices are well distributed throughout the batter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This aerates the butter and sugar, aiding in a tender cake texture.
- Add Wet Flavors: Beat in the egg, followed by the molasses and vanilla extract, ensuring each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with hot water. Mix gently after each addition until the batter is smooth and lump-free but avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the pan before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use unsulphured molasses for a richer, more pleasant flavor.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg enhances the warm spice profile.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the spiced cake.
- Store leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
