Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake

Name: Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup candied ginger, chopped; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes

I absolutely adore making Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake for my friends. This rich, spiced cake is perfect for sharing during our special gatherings. The warmth of the ginger combined with a hint of cinnamon and cloves really brings out the cozy flavors of winter. Not only does it taste amazing, but the slight crunch of the candied ginger on top adds a delightful texture. Whether we have it with tea or as a treat after dinner, this cake always brings smiles and warm, happy moments to our celebrations.

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:58:28.222Z

When I first baked Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake, I was searching for something that echoed the flavors of the season while being indulgent yet approachable. Experimenting with different spices, I discovered the balance of ginger and molasses is what really elevates the flavor profile. Paired with a light cream cheese frosting, the cake became a new favorite in my kitchen.

This cake showcases the beauty of using freshly grated ginger, which provides a robust flavor that dried spices often lack. I encourage everyone to slice and serve it warm; the aroma will surely fill your home with the ambiance of friendship and fun.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm spices that comfort and delight
Rich molasses flavor with a twist of ginger
A perfect treat for celebrating with friends

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. The combination of unsulfured molasses and both granulated and brown sugars contributes to the cake's rich flavor profile, ensuring it remains moist. The unsulfured molasses not only adds depth but enhances the cake’s darker hue, while the sugars create an ideal balance of sweetness, complementing the warmth of the spices. If you're looking for a deeper flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for an even richer taste.

Freshly grated ginger plays a pivotal role in this recipe, providing a bright, zesty kick that elevates the spiciness profile. It's essential to use fresh ginger as ground ginger cannot replicate the same vibrancy and complexity. If fresh ginger isn’t available, you might use a small amount of ground ginger; however, the texture and intensity will differ. The spices, particularly ground cinnamon and ground cloves, work hand-in-hand with the ginger to create a comforting, warm flavor that evokes the essence of winter gatherings.

Baking Tips for Success

When baking this cake, it is crucial to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and molasses. This practice helps create a smooth batter and promotes even baking. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so fold in the dry ingredients until just combined—small streaks of flour are okay. Watch for the golden edges and a slight dome on top as visual cues that your cake is ready to come out of the oven. Trust your instincts; if the toothpick comes out clean, your cake is done!

Cooling the cake properly is vital for maintaining its structure. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step prevents it from becoming soggy and helps preserve its texture. Once it’s completely cool, the frosting will adhere better, creating a beautiful finish. For an added touch, consider toasting the chopped candied ginger before sprinkling it on top for an even more intense flavor and an appealing presentation.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup candied ginger, chopped

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the molasses, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, freshly grated ginger, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and salt.

Combine and Fold

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped candied ginger.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Cool and Frost

Once the cake has cooled completely, remove it from the pan and frost with the cream cheese frosting.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, serve the cake with a sprinkle of fresh ginger or a side of spiced tea.

Serving Suggestions

Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair it with a warm cup of chai or your favorite herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The spices in the cake will complement the warmth of the tea, making it a cozy pairing. Alternatively, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option.

To elevate your serving experience, consider garnishing the cake with fresh slices of ginger or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This not only enhances visual appeal but adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cake's spiciness. I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra flavor; it really makes the cake pop!

Storing and Freezing

Galentine's Ginger Spice Cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings. If you prefer to make the cake in advance, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in an airtight container to retain moisture. Avoid refrigeration unless necessary, as this can lead to a dry cake.

For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then warm them slightly in the microwave before serving for a freshly-baked taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Just wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can stay frozen for up to three months.

→ What other spices can I add?

Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for an extra flavor twist!