This Molasses Ginger Cake is a warm, richly spiced treat that brings together the deep flavors of molasses with the zest of fresh ginger and cinnamon. Its texture is moist and tender, making it the perfect dessert for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. A dark, caramelized top layer gives each slice a hint of crispness, contrasting beautifully with the fluffy crumb beneath. Served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is both comforting and indulgent, with a spice blend that’s perfectly balanced to warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tsp lemon juice added)
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (optional, for extra zing)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and mix until smooth.
- Add Egg and Fresh Ginger: Beat in the egg and fresh ginger (if using) until well combined.
- Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.
Enjoy this spiced Molasses Ginger Cake, a classic dessert with deep, cozy flavors that capture the spirit of the season!