Are you ready to indulge in the rich, warm, and spicy flavors of the holiday season with a cake that's both incredibly moist and filled with the aromatic essence of gingerbread? Let's dive into making Super Moist Gingerbread Cake using the delightful Kraft recipe. This cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy family dessert.
Ingredients
Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons of ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt
- 1⁄2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3⁄4 cup of dark molasses
- 1 cup of hot water
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to create your gingerbread masterpiece:
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using a mixer or vigorous stirring.
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Add Eggs and Molasses: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then slowly stir in the molasses. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
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Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and hot water to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
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Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake: Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be set but slightly springy to the touch.
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Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
❤️ Note: Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough cake. The batter should be just combined.
Frosting
For the perfect finishing touch, try this simple cream cheese frosting:
- 1⁄2 cup of cream cheese, softened
- 1⁄4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Milk or cream for consistency
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, followed by the vanilla extract.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Spread or pipe this frosting over the cooled gingerbread cake.
🍰 Note: You can make this frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator, just bring it to room temperature before using.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to serve your Gingerbread Cake:
- Warm and Comforting: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
- Elegant Dessert: Dollop with whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sophisticated presentation.
- Holiday Cheer: Top with candied ginger or a gingerbread man cookie for added holiday charm.
In conclusion, this Super Moist Gingerbread Cake recipe from Kraft not only fills your home with the irresistible aroma of spices but also promises a cake that's wonderfully moist and full of flavor. Whether you're baking it for a festive occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake captures the essence of holiday baking. Enjoy the process, from mixing the ingredients to decorating the cake, and savor the joy that comes from sharing a homemade dessert with loved ones. Remember, the key to a memorable gingerbread cake lies in the warmth of its flavors and the love you bake into it.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
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Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure the cake’s texture remains light and fluffy.
What can I use instead of molasses?
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If you’re out of molasses, you can use dark corn syrup, honey, or even a combination of maple syrup and brown sugar. Keep in mind that these substitutes will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How do I store this gingerbread cake?
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Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosted, keep it refrigerated to preserve the frosting’s integrity.
