Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Caramel

Name: Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Caramel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup molasses; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

Indulge in the warm, spiced flavors of this Gingerbread Cake topped with a luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for the holiday season or any cozy gathering.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:19:16.908Z

This Spiced Gingerbread Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of ginger and spices with a rich caramel topping. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings and will fill your home with an irresistible aroma.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of spices that will warm your heart
Irresistible caramel sauce that adds a rich sweetness
Perfectly moist texture that keeps you coming back for more

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of baking gingerbread fills the air, evoking memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. This Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Caramel is more than just a dessert; it's a heartwarming experience that brings people together. The unique blend of spices, including ginger and cinnamon, creates a fragrant warmth that envelops you with every bite, making it an ideal sweet for holiday parties or cozy evenings by the fire.

This cake not only stands out for its flavor but also for its visual appeal. The rich, dark color of the gingerbread contrasts beautifully with the golden caramel drizzle, making it a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Whether served at a festive dinner or as an afternoon treat with coffee, this cake is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The quality of ingredients plays a significant role in the outcome of any recipe, and this gingerbread cake is no exception. Using fresh spices ensures that each slice bursts with the rich flavors of ginger and cinnamon, while high-quality molasses adds depth and moisture to the cake. For the caramel sauce, opting for real butter and heavy cream creates a luxurious topping that enhances the overall experience of the dessert.

Moreover, buttermilk is a secret ingredient that contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. It reacts with the baking soda to create a light, fluffy texture, making each bite a delight. This attention to detail in ingredient selection is what elevates this Spiced Gingerbread Cake from a simple dessert to a memorable indulgence.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To ensure your gingerbread cake turns out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately, especially when it comes to the flour. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little will affect the structure. Sifting the dry ingredients together helps to incorporate air and ensures an even distribution of spices throughout the batter.

Additionally, allow your cake to cool in the pan for the recommended time. This helps it to set and prevents it from breaking apart during the transfer to a wire rack. If you want to add a personal touch, consider incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and flavor. With these simple tips, you'll be well on your way to baking a perfect gingerbread cake.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk

For the Caramel Sauce

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth baking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and eggs, then gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns a golden brown. Stir in the butter until melted, then slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Serve the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over the top. Slice and serve, enjoying the delightful combination of spiced cake and sweet caramel.

Enjoy your delicious Spiced Gingerbread Cake with Caramel!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Gingerbread Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, making it a convenient treat for entertaining. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it in an airtight container. The cake also freezes beautifully—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. Just thaw it out at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy it again.

Serving suggestions can vary, but for an extra touch of elegance, consider dusting the cake with powdered sugar or serving it with a dollop of whipped cream. Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also create a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced cake.

Pairing Beverages with Gingerbread Cake

When it comes to beverages, this gingerbread cake pairs beautifully with a variety of drinks. A cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider complements the warm flavors of the cake, enhancing the overall experience. For those who prefer something stronger, a glass of mulled wine or a warm bourbon cocktail can provide a festive kick, making your dessert spread even more inviting.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider creating a coffee bar where guests can choose their favorite brew to enjoy alongside their slice of gingerbread cake. The rich, aromatic flavors of coffee are a perfect match for the spiced cake and caramel sauce, creating a cozy atmosphere for everyone to savor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the caramel sauce in advance and reheat it before serving.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.