Name: Delicious Gingerbread Layer Cake: A Festive Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g; measured via spoon and level method); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115g; 1 stick); 3/4 cup molasses (255g; don’t use blackstrap); 1 cup hot brewed coffee (225g); 1/3 cup Domino Golden Sugar (65g; granulated sugar works too); 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tsps ground ginger; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/4 tsp cloves; 1 large egg; 4 ounces cream cheese cold (115g); 1/4 cup unsalted butter room temperature (55g; 1/2 stick); 1 cup powdered sugar (115g); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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Gingerbread Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert to celebrate the holiday season. This cake is moist, deeply spiced, and layered with a tangy cream cheese frosting, making it a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering. With its warm spices and rich flavors, it embodies the spirit of the holidays and creates a comforting atmosphere. Let’s dive into this delicious traditional gingerbread cake recipe that will surely impress your guests and family.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Layer Cake

This Gingerbread Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it is an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

It features a moist gingerbread layer cake that stays fresh for days.
The gingerbread cake with cream cheese frosting provides a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
It’s an easy gingerbread layer cake tutorial that even novice bakers can follow.
This festive gingerbread cake is perfect for Christmas and Thanksgiving celebrations.
Each layer is packed with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, making it a spiced gingerbread cake you’ll crave.
It’s versatile! Consider adding a gingerbread layer cake with caramel sauce for an extra special touch.
It’s a delightful way to embrace holiday traditions while creating new memories with family.

With a preparation time of only 30 minutes and a baking time of 40 minutes, this cake is a true holiday gem that fits the busy season!

Ingredients for Gingerbread Layer Cake

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour (250g; measured via spoon and level method)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (115g; 1 stick)
3/4 cup molasses (255g; don’t use blackstrap)
1 cup hot brewed coffee (225g)
1/3 cup Domino Golden Sugar (65g; granulated sugar works too)
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsps ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
1 large egg
4 ounces cream cheese cold (115g)
1/4 cup unsalted butter room temperature (55g; 1/2 stick)
1 cup powdered sugar (115g)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

How to Make Gingerbread Layer Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Step 2: Grease a 9-inch springform pan or a regular 9-inch round pan.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Step 4: Melt butter in a bowl or saucepan. Whisk in molasses and hot coffee until smooth. Stir in Golden Sugar and then add egg, whisking until combined.
Step 5: Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until smooth.
Step 6: Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 7: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan.
Step 9: Let the cake cool completely before making the frosting.
Step 10: Beat cream cheese and butter on high speed until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing until fluffy.
Step 11: Spread frosting over the cooled cake, making swirls if desired. Optionally, sprinkle candied walnuts on top.
Step 12: Store the cake in the fridge for up to a week. Microwave a slice for 20 seconds to warm.
Step 13: Bake the cake up to 2 days in advance, unfrosted, at room temperature.
Step 14: The frosting can be made 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Layer Cake

Keep these in mind:

This cake keeps well in the fridge.
It tastes better if made ahead of time.
The frosting can also be prepared in advance.
For an added touch, try a gingerbread cake with whipped cream on the side!
Use fresh spices for the best flavor in your gingerbread cake layers with spices.

Best Ways to Serve Gingerbread Layer Cake

Here are a few ideas for serving:

Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream for a light contrast.
Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience.

How to Store and Reheat Gingerbread Layer Cake

This cake can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, wrapped tightly. When ready to enjoy a slice, simply microwave on half power for about 20 seconds to warm it up without losing its moist texture. Meal prep has never been easier!

Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Layer Cake

What is a gingerbread layer cake?

A gingerbread layer cake is a moist and spiced cake typically made with ingredients like molasses, ginger, and warm spices. It is often layered and frosted, making it a festive dessert for the holidays.

Can I make gingerbread layer cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake up to 2 days in advance and store it unfrosted at room temperature. The frosting can also be prepared up to 2 days ahead and kept in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with gingerbread layer cake?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, and do not overmix the batter to keep your cake tender and fluffy. Follow the recipe closely for the best results!

Variations of Gingerbread Layer Cake You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers for extra richness.
Incorporate chopped nuts or add a gingerbread cake with caramel sauce for a decadent twist.
Try a festive gingerbread cake for Christmas by decorating with holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter.

This delightful gingerbread layer cake is sure to become a cherished favorite in your holiday baking repertoire!

For more festive recipes, check out our gingerbread cookies with maple glaze or our Christmas Black Forest Trifle.

Delicious Gingerbread Layer Cake: A Festive Delight - Gingerbread Layer Cake - additional detail

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