gingerbread cake loaf recipe

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The Best gingerbread cake loaf recipe

Gingerbread cake loaf is a classic holiday treat that has been a staple in my family for generations. This moist and flavorful cake is packed with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, giving it a comforting and nostalgic feel.

My kids love helping me make this cake, and it’s become a tradition that we look forward to every year. The best part is that it’s not just for holidays; this cake is perfect for any occasion or even a cozy afternoon snack.

The health benefits of gingerbread are also worth noting. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and the molasses used in the recipe provide a good source of iron.

This cake is a delightful way to enjoy some of the benefits of these ingredients while satisfying your sweet tooth. I love that this recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed by everyone in the family.

Whether it’s a festive gathering or a quiet evening at home, gingerbread cake loaf always brings a sense of warmth and happiness to our table.

4.7 from 1300 votes

This moist and flavorful gingerbread cake loaf is perfect for any occasion. Packed with warm spices, it’s a comforting treat that everyone will love.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time45 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time1 hr

Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/2 cup molasses

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup hot water

For the Topping

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1-2 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

3In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5Stir in the molasses until fully incorporated.

6In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.

7Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

8Slowly pour in the hot water and mix until the batter is smooth.

9The batter will be quite thin and liquidy.

10Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

11Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

12The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.

13Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

14While the cake is cooling, prepare the topping.

15In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.

16Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

17Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

18Slice and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

9×5-inch loaf pan

Mixing bowls

Electric mixer

Spatula

Whisk

Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a more intense ginger flavor, you can add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the batter. This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Watch Video Of How Gingerbread Cake Loaf Recipe Works

Gingerbread cake loaf is a versatile and delicious treat that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.

The combination of warm spices and rich molasses creates a comforting and satisfying flavor that everyone will love. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To reheat, simply slice the cake and warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

This cake is always a hit at any occasion and works well for family gatherings or just a simple dessert after a meal. It’s a classic recipe that never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Cake Loaf

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar. Brown sugar will give the cake a slightly different flavor and a deeper color. If you do this, you may want to reduce the amount of molasses slightly, as brown sugar already contains molasses.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this gingerbread cake loaf can be made ahead of time. You can bake it up to 3 days in advance and store it at room temperature, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to make the cake healthier. Keep in mind that this will change the texture and flavor slightly. You may need to add a bit more liquid to the batter to achieve the right consistency.

Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Absolutely. You can add mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently after you’ve added the dry ingredients.

Why is my cake so dense?

If your cake is too dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not creaming the butter and sugar properly. Make sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, and avoid overmixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Also, ensure that you measure your ingredients accurately, as too much flour can make the cake dense.

gingerbread cake loaf recipe

The Best gingerbread cake loaf recipe