A warm, aromatic gingerbread cake topped with a rich caramel drizzle—perfect for cozy gatherings or a festive dessert that feels comforting and nostalgic. This tender, spiced cake pairs beautifully with the buttery homemade caramel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gingerbread cake combines deep molasses flavor with aromatic spices for a classic holiday taste. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple pantry ingredients, and the caramel drizzle adds a luxurious touch that elevates every bite. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gingerbread Cake
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp cloves
½ tsp salt
½ cup melted butter
½ cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 cup warm water
½ cup molasses
1 tsp vanilla

Caramel Drizzle
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp butter
½ cup heavy cream
Flaky sea salt for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, egg, warm water, molasses, and vanilla until blended.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 28–34 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Caramel Drizzle

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the sugar until melted and amber in color.
2. Stir in the butter until smooth.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream; the mixture will bubble vigorously.
4. Simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.

Finish

1. Arrange the cake squares on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle caramel over each slice.
3. Lightly sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 9 servings when baked in an 8×8 or 9×9 pan.
Preparation time: approximately 15 minutes
Baking time: 28–34 minutes
Total time: about 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Add orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Stir in a handful of raisins or chopped dates for added sweetness and texture.
• Replace the caramel drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for a lighter finish.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness.
• Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a deeper caramel-like sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover gingerbread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften and warm the texture. Warm caramel separately and drizzle before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, the cake stays moist and can be made a day in advance.

Can I use dark molasses?

Yes, but expect a deeper and slightly more bitter flavor.

Can I substitute the butter in the cake?

Melted coconut oil works well as a substitute.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend will usually work.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for the caramel?

Evaporated milk works, though the texture may vary slightly.

Why did my caramel crystallize?

Stirring the sugar too much during melting can cause crystallization.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes; bake in a 9×13 pan and extend the baking time slightly.

How do I know the cake is fully baked?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I add frosting instead of caramel?

Yes, cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with gingerbread.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but the baking time will be longer—begin checking at 45 minutes.

Conclusion

This gingerbread cake with caramel is a comforting, aromatic dessert perfect for any occasion. With warm spices, rich molasses, and a luscious caramel drizzle, it brings together classic flavors in an easy, reliable recipe that everyone will enjoy. Whether served for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, it’s a delightful bake worth making again and again.

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