Gingerbread bundt cake is a festive, spiced dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. Combining the warm flavors of ginger, molasses, and cinnamon, it offers a comforting treat that can be served for special occasions or just to enjoy with loved ones. If you’re ready to bring some holiday cheer to your kitchen, follow this easy recipe to create a moist, fluffy bundt cake that everyone will love.
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s helpful to know a few baking tips for bundt cakes to ensure your creation comes out perfect. You can check out expert advice from Better Homes & Gardens on bundt cake baking tips to ensure your bundt cake bakes evenly and releases easily from the pan.
Ingredients for Gingerbread Bundt Cake
To create the perfect gingerbread bundt cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup molasses
- ½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients combine to create the warm, spiced flavor profile you love in gingerbread. If you’re curious about the health benefits of ginger, WebMD provides a detailed breakdown of why this spice is not only tasty but good for your health.
How to Make Gingerbread Bundt Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. For best results, use a non-stick bundt pan for easy release.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt). This step helps evenly distribute the spices throughout the batter, ensuring a flavorful cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer. The mixture should be smooth and aerated, which is key to getting that fluffy cake texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could lead to a denser cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can check out this guide on bundt cake baking for troubleshooting tips if your cake isn’t baking evenly.
Decorating Your Gingerbread Bundt Cake
Once your cake is cooled and unmolded, you’ll want to decorate it. A simple powdered sugar glaze is perfect for a classic, elegant touch. For a more indulgent option, consider using cream cheese frosting, which pairs wonderfully with the spiced flavor of the cake. You can explore various frosting recipes on Taste of Home for more creative options.
Variations on the Gingerbread Bundt Cake
If you’re in the mood to get creative, here are a few variations you can try:
- Chocolate Gingerbread Bundt Cake: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Fruit and Nut Gingerbread Cake: Stir in raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for extra texture.
- Vegan Gingerbread Cake: Use flax eggs and a non-dairy milk like almond milk for a vegan-friendly option.
These variations will make your cake even more special, perfect for all types of holiday celebrations.
Pairing Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Beverages
This cake pairs wonderfully with both hot and cold beverages. Some great options include:
- Hot Beverages: A cup of spiced cider or hot coffee complements the warm spices in the cake perfectly.
- Cold Beverages: If you prefer something chilled, a glass of sparkling water or eggnog will enhance the flavors of the cake.
For more festive drink ideas, explore spiced cider recipes.
Storing and Freezing Your Gingerbread Bundt Cake
You can store your gingerbread bundt cake at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh for longer, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week. For even longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Learn more about freezing cakes on this page.
FAQs
What can I substitute for molasses in a gingerbread bundt cake?
Molasses provides a rich, deep flavor. If you don’t have molasses, try using honey or maple syrup as a substitute. While they won’t replicate the exact flavor, they’ll still add sweetness and moisture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This cake actually improves in flavor as it rests. You can make it a day or two ahead of your event. Store it wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How do I make the cake more moist?
Ensure you’re not overmixing the batter. You can also use buttermilk instead of regular milk for extra moisture, or add a dollop of sour cream for a tender crumb.
Conclusion
This gingerbread bundt cake is the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. With its spiced flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to impress your guests. You can decorate it with a simple glaze, add some frosting, or get creative with a few variations. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of chilled sparkling water, this gingerbread bundt cake is sure to be a holiday favorite.
Link: Food Network: Bundt Cake Decorating Ideas
- Reason: This Food Network page gives creative ideas for decorating bundt cakes, which could be helpful for readers looking to add their own flair to the gingerbread bundt cake.