Gingerbread Pudding Cake
Introduction
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that fills your home with the scent of spices, look no further than Gingerbread Pudding Cake. This delightful treat marries the cozy flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses into a pudding-like cake that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings, this recipe is simple to make and tastes like a hug from the inside!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: A straightforward recipe that takes minimal effort.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays or casual gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the rich, sweet flavor.
- Unbelievably Delicious: Moist, spiced cake with a warm pudding layer.
Gingerbread Pudding Cake stands out because of its unique combination of textures—a moist cake sits atop a gooey pudding layer, creating a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and comforting.
Ingredients Needed
For the Gingerbread Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup milk (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
For the Pudding Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3/4 cup hot water
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
How to Make Gingerbread Pudding Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan by greasing it with butter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the molasses, milk, and egg until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture and the molasses mixture to the creamed butter, alternating between the two. Beat on low speed until everything is just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter into your prepared pan. If using ramekins, portion about 1/4 cup of batter into each ramekin, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Make the Pudding Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and cornstarch together. In a saucepan, heat the hot water and butter until the butter melts. Gradually stir this mixture into the brown sugar mixture until smooth.
- Pour Over the Batter: Carefully pour the pudding sauce over the batter in the pan (or over the ramekins).
- Bake the Cake: Bake for 38 to 42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the cake comes out clean—just avoid hitting the bottom.
- Serve Warm: Once out of the oven, serve warm and enjoy the delicious layers!
How to Serve Gingerbread Pudding Cake
This Gingerbread Pudding Cake is best enjoyed warm. You can serve it topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. The warm pudding underneath makes each bite incredibly comforting.
How to Store Gingerbread Pudding Cake
To store leftover Gingerbread Pudding Cake, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Gingerbread Pudding Cake
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the milk and egg, for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor!
Variations
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add chocolate chips or use orange zest to brighten the flavors. Experiment with different spices, like allspice or cardamom, for a unique take.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use an alternative sweetener?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey in place of molasses, but this will alter the flavor.
How do I make this gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it is suitable for baking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the Gingerbread Pudding Cake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. To serve, thaw and reheat as mentioned above.
Conclusion
Gingerbread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that offers a heartwarming blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and sure to impress your family and friends. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment with your thoughts and a star rating! Feel free to share your own variations or any tips you discovered along the way. Happy baking!