Name: Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour (195g); 1 tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp fine sea salt; 1½ tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp cloves; ¼ tsp nutmeg; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (113g); ½ cup dark brown sugar, packed (100g); ⅓ cup unsulfured molasses (80ml); 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk (120ml); ½ cup hot water (120ml); ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (113g); 1½ cups powdered sugar, sifted (190g); 1½ tsp molasses (10g); ½ tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp cinnamon; ⅛ tsp ground ginger; Small pinch of cloves and nutmeg; 1–1½ tbsp heavy cream or milk (15–20ml, only if needed); Tiny pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness); Dulce de leche; Caramel sauce; Sugared cranberries

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartfelt dessert that wraps up all the warmth of the season in one irresistible treat, look no further than this Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe. It’s a tender, moist cake bursting with classic gingerbread spices, crowned with a creamy frosting boasting just the right kiss of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The finishing decorative touches, like luscious drizzles of dulce de leche and sparkling sugared cranberries, make this cake a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday party or a special family dinner, this recipe promises to fill your kitchen with the inviting aromas and joyful spirit everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a light brown batter with a thick, swirled texture in a square cardboard box, filling it almost to the top. In the background, on a white marbled surface, there is a small white plate with round cookies covered in sesame seeds, a white container with a white lid on a wooden round slice, and two small wooden spoons resting on the wooden slice. The setting is warm and cozy with natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the magic of this Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe comes down to simple pantry staples and a handful of warm spices that work together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the earthy molasses and aromatic ginger to the butter that lends tenderness and richness.

All-purpose flour (1½ cups): The foundation for a tender cake crumb.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise and stay light.
Baking powder (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle lift for fluffiness.
Fine sea salt (½ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Ground ginger (1½ tsp): The star spice that brings warmth and a mild zing.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a cozy sweetness and depth.
Cloves (¼ tsp): Offers a hint of aromatic intensity.
Nutmeg (¼ tsp): A subtle nutty, spicy note to round out the warming spices.
Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup + ½ cup): Used for both the cake and frosting to create richness.
Dark brown sugar (½ cup): Brings moisture and caramel undertones.
Unsulfured molasses (⅓ cup + 1½ tsp): Adds deep, bittersweet flavor and color.
Large egg (1): Binds the cake ingredients while contributing to texture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp + ½ tsp): Enhances all other flavors with a sweet fragrance.
Buttermilk (½ cup): Keeps the cake tender and adds slight tanginess.
Hot water (½ cup): Helps dissolve molasses and soften the batter.
Powdered sugar (1½ cups): Creates a smooth, sweet frosting base.
Cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, nutmeg (small amounts): Infuse the frosting with a perfect echo of the cake’s spices.
Heavy cream or milk (1–1½ tbsp): Adjusts frosting consistency for spreadability.
Tiny pinch of salt (optional): Balances the sweetness in the frosting.
Dulce de leche and caramel sauce: For luscious drizzles that add color and richness.
Sugared cranberries: Their tart, sparkling beauty makes the cake festive and irresistible.

How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your gingerbread cake won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all those wonderful spices—ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This blend is where your cake’s festive aroma begins to develop.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture looks light and creamy. Then add the molasses, vanilla, and egg, beating everything until it’s thoughtfully combined. This step builds flavor depth and a beautiful texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture in three parts, starting and ending with the dry mix. This careful mixing keeps the cake tender and moist.

Step 5: Add Hot Water and Bake

Finally, stir in the hot water gently—this helps dissolve the molasses and loosens the batter. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye out: the cake is done when a toothpick inserted right in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Remove from Pan

After 15 minutes on a cooling rack, carefully remove the cake from its pan and parchment paper, then let it cool completely. This is essential before frosting so you don’t end up with melting frosting or a soggy cake.

Step 7: Prepare the Spiced Frosting

Beat the softened butter until it’s pale and fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar, molasses, vanilla, and the same warm spices used in the cake. Keep whipping for a few minutes until silky smooth. Adjust the texture with a splash of heavy cream or milk if needed.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Once cooled, spread a generous layer of your spiced frosting over the cake. For an extra festive flair, drizzle melted dulce de leche or caramel sauce on top. Finish with sparkling sugared cranberries that bring both beauty and a tart contrast to the sweet, spicy goodness.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe

The image shows a square brownie with two visible layers on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark brown, dense brownie with a slightly rough texture. On top is a thick, creamy, light brown frosting spread unevenly with soft swirls and a dusting of cinnamon powder. Scattered across the frosting are small, round red berries covered lightly in frost, adding a pop of color. In the background, there are rustic wooden spoons, a small wooden bowl with gingerbread cookies, and a gingerbread tree decoration. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The sugared cranberries aren’t just for looks—they add a bright pop of color and a little zing that contrasts beautifully with the rich spiced frosting. Drizzling a bit of dulce de leche or warm caramel sauce on each slice elevates every bite to pure indulgence.

Side Dishes

Serve your gingerbread cake alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a cooling touch. If you want to keep things simple but festive, a hot cup of spiced tea or mulled cider pairs perfectly with the warm spices and makes every mouthful feel cozy.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into neat squares and stacking them slightly off-kilter on a serving platter for a charming rustic look. You can also pipe additional frosting into swirls around the edges to impress your guests with a professional touch. Tucking rosemary sprigs or cinnamon sticks around the display adds seasonal flair without effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and you probably will), store your gingerbread cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spices actually develop more depth over time, and this cake will stay delicious for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead option.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For the best frosting texture, consider freezing the cake and frosting separately.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature before serving. This will bring back some of that fresh-baked softness and make your frosting even more luscious.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix ½ cup of regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle before using. This substitute will keep your cake just as moist and tangy.

How do I make sugared cranberries for decoration?

Simply toss fresh cranberries in a little beaten egg white, then roll them in superfine sugar. Let them dry on parchment paper for an hour or two until they’re sparkly and firm. They add a beautiful festive touch and a tart burst with each bite.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes! The spiced frosting can be made a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. Before using, beat it again briefly to restore its fluffy texture—it’s like magic bringing it back to life.

What if I don’t have molasses? Can I use honey instead?

While honey is sweeter and less robust than molasses, you can use it as a substitute in a pinch. Keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly, making the cake a bit lighter in color and taste. If possible, molasses is best for capturing that traditional gingerbread depth.

Is this recipe suitable for frosting other cakes?

Definitely! This spiced frosting pairs wonderfully with plain vanilla or chocolate cakes too. Its warming spices and molasses sweetness can add a lovely seasonal twist to many desserts beyond gingerbread.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cake with Spiced Frosting and Festive Decorations Recipe is one of those special treats that instantly fills your home with holiday cheer and makes your celebrations feel a little warmer and brighter. It’s simple enough to make any day feel special yet impressive enough to wow your guests. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a beloved classic on your dessert table.