Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Why Make This Recipe

The Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake is perfect for the holiday season. Its warm spices and rich flavors create a cozy atmosphere that everyone loves. This cake not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing. It’s great for gatherings, parties, or simply treating yourself during chilly winter days. The unique wreath shape adds a festive touch to any table, making it a wonderful centerpiece for your holiday celebrations.

How to Make Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups dark brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cinnamon sticks
• Star anise
• Candied ginger slices
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch Bundt or ring-shaped pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in molasses and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Stir in the baking soda.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
8. Once the cake is cooled, pipe whipped cream around the edges using a star-shaped tip. Decorate with cinnamon sticks, star anise, candied ginger, and rosemary. Finally, dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

How to Serve Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Serve this beautiful wreath cake as a centerpiece at your holiday table. You can cut it into slices and offer it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat. Pairing it with a warm drink like hot cocoa or spiced cider will enhance the cozy feeling of this delightful dessert.

How to Store Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, and it will stay fresh for about a week. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Tips to Make Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Sift the dry ingredients together for a lighter cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this helps keep the cake fluffy.
• If you like more spice, add a bit more ground ginger or cinnamon.
• Use a combination of fresh and dried fruits, if you wish, for added flavor and decoration.

Variation

You can replace the molasses with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter can give it a delightful crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Just store it properly, and it will taste great the next day.

2. Is this cake safe to freeze?
Yes, you can freeze the gingerbread wreath cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months.

3. Can I use a different type of pan?
Absolutely! You can use a regular round cake pan or even a loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may take longer to bake in a different shape.