There’s something truly special about the first bite of a moist gingerbread cake that dances with warm spices, pulling you into the embrace of the holiday spirit. This recipe, however, takes a delightful turn with a zesty lemon cream cheese frosting that adds a bright pop of flavor, transforming a traditional treat into something fresh and inviting. After a hectic day filled with preparations, the kitchen floods with the sweet aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, instantly warming my heart and lifting my spirits.
Whether you’re hosting family for a festive gathering or simply craving a homemade dessert, this gingerbread cake is not only easy to whip up but also guarantees to impress with its rich, moist texture and vibrant citrus twist. Plus, this lightened-up version allows you to indulge without the guilt. Ready to bring a slice of holiday joy to your table? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that perfectly marries the cozy flavors of your childhood with a refreshing modern spin!
Why is Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese special?
Moist and Fluffy: This cake is incredibly light, making each bite a delight.
Festive Flavor Combination: The warm spices of gingerbread paired with zesty lemon frosting bring joy to every occasion.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and easily found ingredients make it perfect for both novice and expert bakers.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Your friends and family will be begging for seconds of this delicious holiday treat!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Lightened-up ingredients mean you can enjoy this festive dessert without the usual heaviness.
This recipe transforms an old classic into a beloved modern staple, perfect for anyone who shares a passion for homemade desserts!
Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Ingredients
• Get ready to create a festive delight with these ingredients!
For the Cake
- Flour – The foundation of your gingerbread cake; all-purpose flour works perfectly, too.
- Ground Ginger – This spice adds essential warmth and complexity; substitute with ground nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the sweetness and provides that comforting flavor we love in holiday baking.
- Ground Cloves – Deepens the spice profile; feel free to omit if you don’t have any on hand.
- Baking Soda – Essential for leavening, giving your cake a lovely rise.
- Kosher Salt – Balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter – Infuses richness and moisture; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Keeps the cake tender while adding extra moisture; sour cream is a great substitute.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds deep sweetness and moisture—light brown sugar can be used if needed.
- Egg – A binder that contributes to the cake’s delightful rise.
- Molasses – The star ingredient for richness and flavor; honey can be a milder substitute.
- Boiling Water – Helps activate the molasses for better incorporation into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds a sweet aroma that pairs perfectly with the spices.
For the Frosting
- Low Fat Cream Cheese – The creamy base for your frosting; regular cream cheese will do just fine if you prefer.
- Unsalted Butter for Frosting – Ensures a creamy texture; opt for dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust to fit your taste preference.
- Lemon Zest and Juice – Bring brightness and acidity that complements the gingerbread cake exquisitely, enhancing its flavors.
This Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese frosting is sure to be a showstopper at your holiday festivities!
How to Make Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×9 baking pan by lightly greasing it and lining with parchment paper. This helps ensure an easy release of your delicious cake later!
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Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and kosher salt. Mix until well combined—this is the base for your spiced cake!
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Combine boiling water and molasses in a separate bowl, then whisk together until fully blended. This step activates the flavors and creates a rich consistency.
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Beat the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until creamy and light. Then, add brown sugar and Greek yogurt, beating until everything is smooth and well combined.
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Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined. This adds richness and a lovely aroma to your batter!
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Mix in the dry ingredients gradually, adding them in three parts, alternating with the molasses mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This technique ensures a fluffy and moist cake!
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Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top, and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cake completely in the pan before frosting. This is crucial; you want to avoid melting your frosting into a puddle!
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Beat together the low-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy in a mixing bowl. Gradually add lemon zest, lemon juice, and powdered sugar, mixing until your frosting is smooth and creamy.
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Spread the lemon cream cheese frosting over your cooled gingerbread cake, making it look as inviting as it tastes. Slice and serve with joy!
Optional: Garnish with fresh citrus slices or a sprinkle of zest for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Variations
Get creative and transform your gingerbread cake experience with these delightful twists!
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Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and depth of flavor. They provide a lovely contrast to the moist cake.
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness and chewiness. They elevate your dessert with a festive touch.
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Flavored Extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or orange extract in the frosting for a subtle twist. This can elevate the frosting’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising warmth. It can awaken your taste buds in the most delightful way.
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Citrus Variations: Try lime or orange juice in the frosting instead of lemon for a different zesty burst. Each citrus brings its unique brightness to the frosting.
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Layer Cake: Bake the mixture in two 8-inch round pans and stack them for a stunning layer cake. Frost between layers for a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based yogurt and butter. You can enjoy this festive treat without any animal products!
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese treats are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cake itself up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it completely after baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to keep it moist. The lemon cream cheese frosting can be made up to 24 hours ahead as well—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bring the cake to room temperature, frost it with the creamy frosting, and voilà! You’ve got a deliciously festive dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese?
Indulging in a slice of this spiced delight brings holiday warmth; complement it with thoughtfully paired treats for a well-rounded experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like texture that enhances the cake’s moistness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Brightly colored seasonal fruits bring a refreshing balance, perfect for cleansing the palate after rich gingerbread flavors.
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Spiced Chai: A warm cup of spiced chai echoes the cake’s cozy spices, creating a comforting beverage pairing for chilly evenings.
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Walnut Topping: Chopped walnuts sprinkled on top provide a crunchy texture, contrasting beautifully with the cake’s softness and creamy frosting.
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Coffee: Serve with a hot cup of coffee; the robust flavor complements the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Lemon Sorbet: This fruity and refreshing sorbet cuts through the richness of the cake, lightening up your dessert experience.
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Ginger Tea: A soothing cup of ginger tea highlights the cake’s inherent spices, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Elevate your holiday table with these delightful pairings and make your gingerbread cake a centerpiece of festive joy!
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese
Fridge: Store your gingerbread cake, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in an airtight container for freezing. It can last up to 3 months—great for holiday prep!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw slices in the fridge overnight. Warm gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to revive its comforting softness.
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover lemon cream cheese frosting, store it separately in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing to achieve a smooth, lump-free frosting.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your gingerbread cake light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done; it should come out clean from the center for perfect results.
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Cool Before Frosting: Let the gingerbread cake cool completely before spreading the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its texture.
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Frosting Consistency: If your lemon cream cheese frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for about 1 hour before spreading to achieve the right consistency.
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Storage Tips: Keep your frosted cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or wrap it tightly to freeze for up to 3 months. Enjoy your holiday treat!
Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh ingredients, look for unsalted butter that is creamy and smooth without any discoloration. Greek yogurt should be thick and tangy, while eggs should be clean and intact, with no cracks. For the lemon, choose ones that are firm and heavy with smooth skin, indicating juiciness.
What are the best storage methods and duration for the cake?
The gingerbread cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keeping it covered helps maintain its moisture and vibrant flavors. If you’re not planning to enjoy it within that time frame, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container to freeze it for up to 3 months, perfect for holiday prep!
How do I freeze gingerbread cake properly?
To freeze your gingerbread cake, wait until it has completely cooled. Then, cut it into serving-sized slices. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste!
What should I do if my gingerbread cake turns out too dense?
If your gingerbread cake is too dense, it’s often due to over-mixing the batter. I recommend mixing the ingredients just until they’re combined to keep it light and fluffy. Ensure your leavening agent, baking soda, is fresh for optimal rise. Also, make sure to incorporate the boiling water with molasses thoroughly; this step helps create a better texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re preparing this gingerbread cake for guests with dietary needs, I suggest using dairy-free butter and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version. Ensure your powdered sugar is also free from additives if needed. Always check the labels for your ingredients to avoid common allergens, especially if you’re hosting gatherings!
Can my pets enjoy gingerbread cake?
No, it’s best to keep this delicious cake away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate, nutmeg (found in ground cloves), and large amounts of sugar can be harmful to dogs and cats. Instead, consider making pet-friendly treats specifically designed for your furry friends!
Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese: A Festive Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9x9 baking pan by lightly greasing it and lining with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, baking soda, and kosher salt.
- Combine boiling water and molasses in a separate bowl, then whisk together until fully blended.
- Beat the softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until creamy and light. Add brown sugar and Greek yogurt, beating until smooth.
- Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Mix in the dry ingredients gradually, alternating with the molasses mixture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool the cake completely in the pan before frosting.
- Beat together the low-fat cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy.
- Gradually add lemon zest, lemon juice, and powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
- Spread the lemon cream cheese frosting over your cooled gingerbread cake.