Gingerbread Layer Cake: A Cozy Autumn Delight
There’s something inherently heartwarming about a gingerbread layer cake. As the days grow shorter and the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s the perfect time to indulge in a cake that embodies all things cozy. This recipe, with its aromatic blend of spices and decadent cream cheese frosting, promises warmth and joy with every slice. Don’t forget to subscribe at the end to receive more delightful recipes like this one straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This gingerbread layer cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Its rich, spicy flavor profile, combined with the creamy, tangy frosting, creates a harmonious balance that’s hard to resist. Not only is this cake a holiday delight, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it accessible for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. It’s a recipe that will bring warmth to both your baking process and your dining table, perfect for family gatherings or simply a quiet evening in.
Ingredients
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon allspice
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Necessary Tools
– 8-inch round cake pans
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
You can swap regular molasses with blackstrap molasses for a deeper flavor. For a nutty hint, consider adding a handful of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. For a citrus kick, a teaspoon of orange zest can make a delightful addition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add molasses, mixing well.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
9. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread with a portion of the cream cheese frosting. Top with the second layer and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cake with a warm cup of chai tea or coffee to complement its spicy, rich flavors. It also pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth frosting.
– Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
– Chill the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.
Storing and Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight containerin the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and cake layers.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.
Q: What can I substitute for buttermilk?
A: You can use plain yogurt or mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Conclusion
In every slice of this gingerbread layer cake, you’ll find the essence of autumn—warm, cozy, and delightful. We hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it does to ours. We’d love for you to leave a review, share your photos, or tag your creation on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/10 recipe):
Calories: 520
Total Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 330mg
Total Carbohydrates: 73g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 54g
Protein: 5g
Enjoy your baking adventures, and stay tuned for more scrumptious recipes!
