Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake
A comforting and festive dessert that brings the warm, cozy flavors of the holidays to your table, perfect for gatherings or family celebrations.
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 400kcal
Ingredients
For the cake
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour A light, fluffy base that sets the stage for your cake’s texture.
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Helps the cake rise perfectly, ensuring it is airy and light.
- 1.5 teaspoons ground ginger The aromatic spice that adds warmth and depth to your cake.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon A familiar, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with ginger.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves Adds a touch of depth and complexity.
- 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg Provides a hint of sweetness that complements the other spices.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy, rich butter that adds moisture and flavor.
- 1.5 cups dark brown sugar, packed Offers a hint of caramel-like sweetness that balances the spices.
- 2 large eggs Binding the ingredients together, adding richness and structure.
- 1 cup molasses Bringing deep, warm flavors to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 cup buttermilk Ensures a moist and tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Adds extra lift to your cake for a fluffy texture.
For the whipped cream topping
- 2 cups heavy cream Provides a dreamy, luscious topping that complements the cake perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar Lightly sweetens the whipped cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the cream.
For decoration
- Cinnamon sticks Adds visual appeal and a hint of spice.
- Star anise A beautiful, aromatic spice that elevates the presentation.
- Candied ginger slices Adds a sweet and spicy touch.
- Fresh rosemary sprigs A pop of green that ties the seasonal theme together.
- Powdered sugar for dusting A final touch of sweetness.
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch Bundt or ring-shaped pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the molasses and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk.
- Stir in the baking soda last.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whip the Cream and Decorate
- In a chilled bowl, add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cake is completely cool, pipe the whipped cream around the edges.
- Decorate with cinnamon sticks, star anise, candied ginger, and fresh rosemary sprigs. Dust with powdered sugar for a charming finish.
Notes
Make it ahead: You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container to keep it moist. Adjust spices: Feel free to modify spice quantities to taste. Experiment with toppings: Consider using nuts or seasonal fruits.