Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

Name: Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup molasses; 1 cup boiling water

December 12, 2025 by Daniel Carter

Delicious Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting served on a plate

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Cozy Up with Gingerbread Cake and Cinnamon Molasses Frosting

The scent of warm spices wafting through the air, the unmistakable richness of molasses, and the promise of sweetness from a dollop of frosting—there’s something wonderfully inviting about a Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting. This delightful cake captures the essence of the holiday season, making it the perfect addition to your festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together with friends or looking to add a touch of sweetness to a weeknight dinner, this cake brings joy and nostalgia in every bite.

Gingerbread isn’t just for the holiday season; it’s a warm hug served on a plate that you can enjoy year-round. Imagine cutting into a slice and watching the moist crumb glisten with the buttery richness from the frosting. It’s a classic that transports you to the heart of winter wonderlands and joyous celebrations. So light your candles, pour a steaming cup of tea, and allow yourself to indulge in the warming flavors of this enchanting cake.

What You’ll Need

Before you embark on this flavorful adventure, gather your ingredients and tools. Preparing this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is as delightful as enjoying the finished product.

Ingredients

Creating this comforting masterpiece requires the following ingredients to bring out the aromatic flavors that make gingerbread so harmonious:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup molasses
1 cup boiling water

Tools

To make the process smoother, gather these basic kitchen tools:

Two 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
An oven thermometer (optional)
Toothpick or cake tester

How to Make It

Making this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is an experience filled with warm aromas and joyful anticipation. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon have a decadent centerpiece for your table.

Prep the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with the warm promise of baking. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring your cakes will slide out effortlessly once baked. The anticipation builds as you prepare your baking space, setting the stage for this delightful mix of flavors and textures.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The spices combine like an aromatic symphony, each note adding depth and warmth to the batter. The rich, earthy tones of ginger and cinnamon dance together, making sure that the season’s spirit will be present in every mouthful.

Build the Flavor

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is where the magic truly begins! As you beat the ingredients, the creamy consistency forming in the bowl is a sign that your cake will be both moist and decadent. The sweet aroma of sugar melding with butter is like a warm embrace, soothing and nostalgic, inviting memories of home baking.

One by one, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Watch as the ingredients blend into a rich, golden batter. Pour in the molasses, stirring to bring the layers of flavor together. This thick, dark syrup adds depth to your cake, creating a beautiful contrast against the lighter hues of your cake batter.

Bake to Perfection

Now it’s time to bring your two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the boiling water until just combined. The boiling water ensures a wonderfully moist cake, making the texture impossibly light. As you mix, be careful not to overdo it—gentle folds are key to keeping the cake airy.

Once thoroughly combined, divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. As you pour the rich mixture, marvel at the depth of the dark batter, glistening and promising delicious results. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread, an olfactory reminder of festive gatherings and cozy evenings.

Finish & Serve

Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans for about 10 minutes before gently transferring them to wire racks. In the meantime, let’s whip up the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, molasses, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The resulting frosting is truly heavenly—luscious, silky, and brimming with the rich flavors that complement your gingerbread perfectly.

Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Spread a generous layer of frosting between the cake layers and then onto the top and sides of the cake. The frosting’s sweetness balances the spiced warmth of the gingerbread, creating a harmonious experience that dances on your palate. As you take your first bite, let the flavors wash over you, crafting a moment of pure bliss. Serve this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting to family and friends and watch their faces light up in delight.

Creative Twists

While the classic flavors of gingerbread are a treasure on their own, consider these delightful twists to elevate your baking experience:

Spiced Citrus Upgrade: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a bright, zesty flavor that balances beautifully with the spiciness of the gingerbread.
Nutty Goodness: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and earthy richness that complements the warm spices perfectly.
Maple Drizzle: Swap molasses for maple syrup in the frosting for a delightful change of flavor that gives a sweet, caramel-like finish.
Layer it Up: Transform this cake into a layered masterpiece by making additional tiers and flavor variations with chocolate or spiced cream cheese frosting.
Gingerbread Cupcakes: If you’re looking for a different presentation, pour the batter into lined muffin tins for adorable gingerbread cupcakes topped with the same luscious frosting.

Final Inspiration

As you wrap up a delightful baking session, remember that this Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting is more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create memories. Gather your loved ones around the table, share slices of this warm, comforting cake, and bask in the glow of laughter and conversation.

With each bite, you’ll not only enjoy the delicious blend of spices and sweetness but also create bonds and moments that linger long after the last crumb is gone. So preheat that oven and embark on this journey of flavor! Your gingerbread adventure awaits, and it promises cozy moments filled with joy, sweetness, and the warmth of home.