Gingerbread Layer Cake

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Gingerbread Layer Cake

Gingerbread Layer Cake is the epitome of comfort in dessert form. With its rich, spiced aroma filling the air, this layered delight is perfect for the holiday season or any occasion when nostalgia and warmth are called for. The combination of soft, moist cake layered with creamy frosting creates a dessert that’s not just pleasing to the palate but also inviting to the heart. This recipe is easy to follow and is guaranteed to make you feel like a baking pro, thanks to its step-by-step directions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore Gingerbread Layer Cake not just for its delightful flavor but also for its simple preparation. This recipe uses minimal ingredients that are often pantry staples, making it a quick go-to for last-minute gatherings or family dinners. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to indulge in a slice of comfort, this cake is sure to impress. Its moist texture and rich spices create a delectable dessert that appeals to both young and old, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Gingerbread Layer Cake irresistibly delicious:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our cake, providing structure and fluffiness.
• 1 cup dark brown sugar: For a deep sweetness and caramel undertones.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures our cake rises beautifully, contributing to its light texture.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the cake with warm, aromatic flavors.
• 1 tsp ground ginger: Gives that signature ginger kick, perfect for the holiday season.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and complexity.
• 3 large eggs (room temperature): Aids in the cake’s rise and richness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): For a creamy texture and rich flavor.
• 1/2 cup milk: Makes the cake moist and tender.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): To create a luscious frosting that complements the spices.
• 3 cups powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to our frosting, making it irresistible.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily once baked.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This aromatic mixture will be the base of our cake, infusing it with warm spices.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the batter for a light cake.

4. Add Eggs
Next, add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth batter.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the mixing bowl until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

6. Divide the Batter and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for frosting, as warm cakes can melt the frosting.

Tips & Tricks

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier incorporation and a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
• Cooling: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Gingerbread Layer Cake is versatile and can be served on various occasions. Pair each slice with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake also goes beautifully with a warm cup of chai or spiced tea, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family moments.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Gingerbread Layer Cake roughly contains about 350 calories, with a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. While it’s important to enjoy desserts mindfully, this cake can be a delightful treat when balanced with nutritious meals throughout the day.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your Gingerbread Layer Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze the layers individually, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge and frost as desired. For variations, consider adding chopped nuts to the batter or using flavored cream cheese for the frosting, like maple or vanilla.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Layer Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful way to create cherished memories in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Try making this cake, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, resulting in a denser cake. You might want to add a bit more milk to compensate.

2. How do I know when my cake is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to avoid drying out.

4. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a buttercream frosting as alternatives. For a lighter option, try whipped cream or a simple glaze.

5. Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Yes! You can freeze both the layers and the frosted cake. Make sure to wrap them well and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator when you’re ready to serve.

Gingerbread Layer Cake

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

A delightful and spiced layered cake that combines soft, moist texture with creamy frosting, perfect for the holiday season.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Cream softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the mixing bowl until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing for a light cake texture.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

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