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A moist square of gingerbread cake generously covered with a thick, creamy cinnamon molasses cream cheese frosting and lightly dusted with cinnamon powder.

Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

This moist and flavorful gingerbread cake is infused with warm spices and topped with a rich cinnamon molasses frosting. A perfect cozy dessert for the holidays or chilly nights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 9 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 365
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Gingerbread Cake
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup molasses
  • 3/4 cup hot water
Cinnamon Molasses Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp molasses
  • 1–2 tbsp milk or cream to adjust consistency

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch Baking Pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric Mixer
  • Cooling Rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x9 inch baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then mix in molasses until smooth.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with hot water, mixing just until combined.
  5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  6. To make the frosting: Beat butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and molasses. Add milk as needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Notes

For a lighter frosting, whip in some cream cheese. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or hot cider.