Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight!

Nothing says the holidays quite like the warm, inviting aroma of gingerbread baking in the oven, and this Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake takes it to a whole new level. With its beautifully spiced flavor, fluffy whipped cream frosting, and a festive wreath decoration, it’s the perfect cake for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just diving into holiday baking, this cake promises a memorable addition to your festive table!

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

This cake is truly special! Here’s why it’s a holiday must-have:

1. Perfectly Spiced: With ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, this cake brings together all the warm, earthy spices that make gingerbread so irresistible.
2. Moist and Tender: The combination of molasses and buttermilk creates a soft, moist cake that melts in your mouth.
3. A Show-Stopping Centerpiece: The decorative wreath design, complete with star anise, rosemary sprigs, and powdered sugar dusting, makes this cake a beautiful holiday centerpiece.
4. Simple, Whipped Cream Frosting: Light and fluffy whipped cream frosting balances the rich spices of the cake without overwhelming it.

The Flavor Profile

Every bite of this cake is a balanced blend of warm spices, rich molasses, and creamy whipped topping. It’s sweet but not too sugary, with each spice adding a layer of flavor that lingers on the palate. The frosting is creamy and light, perfectly complementing the dense, aromatic cake. It’s a taste of the holidays in every slice!

Ingredients for Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

For the Gingerbread Cake:

• 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

Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decoration:

• Cinnamon sticks
• Star anise
• Candied ginger slices
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Necessary Tools

• 9-inch Bundt or ring-shaped cake pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Piping bag with a star-shaped tip for frosting
• Whisk
• Cooling rack

How to Make Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch Bundt or ring-shaped cake pan thoroughly and line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Make the Cake Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Add Baking Soda: Stir in the baking soda to ensure a tender cake.

Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
2. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the cream to turn grainy.

Decorate Your Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cool, use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe whipped cream around the edges in elegant swirls.
2. Arrange cinnamon sticks, star anise, candied ginger slices, and rosemary sprigs around the cake for a festive touch.
3. Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snow-kissed effect.

Tips for Decorating Your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

• Cinnamon Sticks and Star Anise: Place them strategically to create a rustic, earthy look that enhances the wreath effect.
• Rosemary Sprigs: Fresh rosemary adds a touch of greenery, creating a natural “wreath” look around the cake.
• Candied Ginger: Adding candied ginger slices not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture and a festive sparkle.
• Powdered Sugar: Lightly dusting the cake with powdered sugar gives it a wintery, snow-dusted look, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Wreath Cake

This cake pairs beautifully with:

• Hot Mulled Cider: The spiced flavors of the cake complement the warm spices in mulled cider.
• Eggnog: Rich and creamy, eggnog adds an indulgent touch to each slice.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cozy cup of hot chocolate with a hint of cinnamon makes for a sweet, comforting pairing.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The whipped cream frosting should be refrigerated to maintain its texture and flavor. If you’d like to make the cake ahead, bake and cool it, then add the whipped cream frosting and decorations just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake without a Bundt pan?
Yes, you can use a regular round or square cake pan, though it may alter the appearance slightly. Be sure to adjust the baking time, as the cake may cook faster in a flatter pan.

Can I substitute the molasses?
Molasses gives this cake its rich, deep flavor. You could substitute with dark corn syrup or honey in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as intense.

How can I prevent the whipped cream from melting?
Chill both the bowl and whisk in the freezer for a few minutes before whipping the cream. This will help it hold its shape longer.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience! From the aromas of ginger and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen to the festive wreath decoration, this cake captures the essence of the holiday season. It’s moist, tender, and topped with fluffy whipped cream frosting, making each slice a delightful treat. Whether you’re bringing it to a holiday party or serving it as a show-stopping dessert, this cake is sure to impress.

Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and delicious treats!

More Holiday Recipe Inspiration

• Christmas Stocking Sugar Cookies – Sweet, buttery, and festive!
• Classic Gingerbread Cake – A traditional, spicy treat perfect for the season.
• Christmas Cake: A Festive Masterpiece – A true showstopper bursting with holiday flavors.

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