Soft gingerbread serves 12, ready in 20 minutes prep, 45 minutes baking, 2 hours total. Made with flour, butter, molasses, sugar, eggs, milk, and warm spices. Moist and tender, with balanced flavor from ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfect festive cake, lightly sweet, golden, easy to make ahead and serve for holidays.
Classic Spiced Gingerbread for Holidays and Gatherings
A timeless festive cake with warmth and flavor in every slice
Soft gingerbread is one of the most beloved holiday desserts, celebrated for its moist texture, deep aroma, and balanced spice blend. The golden crumb carries notes of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, each spice weaving warmth into the batter, creating a cake that feels comforting and indulgent at the same time. Served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or adorned with a simple glaze, this festive treat easily becomes the centerpiece of a seasonal table.
The structure of this cake relies on butter or oil for softness, molasses or dark sugar for richness, and eggs for stability. Gentle mixing ensures the crumb stays delicate while still holding together beautifully. Each bite delivers a balance of sweet, spiced, and slightly caramelized flavors, making it a dessert that appeals across generations.
The tradition and history of gingerbread
Gingerbread has centuries of history, dating back to medieval Europe, where spices were prized and considered a luxury. Monks are believed to have first baked honey-sweetened spiced cakes, which later evolved into the gingerbread we know today. Over time, recipes spread across countries, with regional variations from soft loaves to crisp decorated cookies. In festive culture, gingerbread became a symbol of hospitality and warmth, often prepared for celebrations and winter gatherings. The soft gingerbread loaf in particular is tied to family baking traditions during the colder months, when its spiced aroma filled kitchens and homes.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Moist and tender texture that stays fresh for days
- Balanced spices delivering warmth without overpowering sweetness
- Versatile serving options from simple powdered sugar to elegant frosting
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holiday schedules
- Comforting aroma that fills the kitchen while baking
- Crowd-pleasing flavor that appeals to both adults and children
Flavor profile and ingredient harmony
The defining character of this cake lies in its spice blend. Ginger brings a gentle heat, cinnamon adds sweetness and depth, cloves offer bold intensity, while nutmeg provides warmth in the background. Together, they create an unmistakable festive identity.
Moisture is achieved through liquid sweeteners and fats, ensuring the crumb is tender rather than dry. The choice of molasses or dark syrup influences both flavor and color, giving the cake its signature dark golden hue and caramel notes. Brown sugar enhances the richness while contributing to the slightly chewy bite. Eggs bind the structure, while flour offers balance and strength. A touch of baking powder or soda ensures lift, creating a cake that rises light but remains soft in the middle.
Serving ideas and festive presentation
This dessert shines with minimal decoration. A dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance, while a simple glaze can bring sweetness and sheen. Topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, or candied orange slices, it becomes a festive centerpiece. Slices can be served with coffee, mulled wine, or spiced tea for the perfect holiday pairing.
Storage and make-ahead
- Room temperature: up to 2 days, stored in an airtight container
- Refrigeration: up to 5 days, wrapped tightly to preserve moisture
- Freezing: up to 2 months, sliced or whole, well-wrapped
- Reheating: 150 °C / 300 °F for 8–10 minutes to refresh texture and aroma
The essence of soft gingerbread
Holiday gatherings often call for comforting desserts that carry both nostalgia and elegance. This soft gingerbread captures the spirit of winter baking, delivering warmth, spice, and sweetness in perfect balance. Its simple preparation, ability to stay moist, and versatility in serving make it an ideal choice for festive occasions, whether shared at a family dinner or presented as a gift wrapped in ribbon.
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- Preheat the oven:
Set the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a bundt pan (2.5 l capacity) with butter and dust lightly with flour. - Mix dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tbsp ground ginger, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp ground nutmeg, ¼ tsp ground cloves, and ½ tsp salt until evenly combined. - Cream the butter and sugar:
In a separate bowl, beat ¾ cup softened butter with 1 cup brown sugar using a hand mixer for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy. - Incorporate molasses and eggs:
Add ¾ cup molasses to the butter mixture and beat until smooth. Add 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is glossy and thick. - Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix. - Bake the gingerbread:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is firm and golden brown. - Cool and serve:
Let the cake rest in the pan for 15 minutes. Invert onto a wire rack and allow to cool fully for at least 1 hour before dusting with powdered sugar or decorating as desired.
FAQ questionCan I substitute molasses in gingerbread?
Yes, you can replace molasses with dark honey or maple syrup. The flavor will be lighter and less intense, but the texture will remain moist and soft. Brown sugar can also be increased slightly to compensate for sweetness.
FAQ questionWhat to do if my gingerbread turns out dry?
Dry gingerbread usually means overbaking or using too much flour. Always measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean but not dry. Adding a small amount of yogurt or sour cream to the batter can also help keep moisture.
FAQ questionHow long does gingerbread stay fresh?
Gingerbread stays fresh at room temperature for 2 days if stored in an airtight container. It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator, and up to 2 months when frozen. Reheat gently at 300 °F (150 °C) for 8–10 minutes before serving to refresh texture.
FAQ questionWhat’s the best way to serve and decorate gingerbread?
The simplest way is dusting with powdered sugar. For special occasions, drizzle with lemon glaze, add whipped cream, or top with candied orange slices. Gingerbread also pairs beautifully with coffee or mulled wine.
FAQ questionIs gingerbread suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, by replacing regular flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend, you can make gingerbread safe for gluten-free diets. Texture may be slightly denser, so adding a spoonful of applesauce or yogurt helps keep it soft.
FAQ questionCan I make gingerbread without dairy?
Yes, replace butter with plant-based margarine and use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy milk. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful while making it fully lactose-free.
FAQ questionHow to adapt gingerbread for a vegan diet?
To make vegan gingerbread, replace eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or applesauce. Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk. The result will be just as spiced, moist, and festive.
We’ve tested and refined this gingerbread cake through countless festive seasons to achieve perfect moisture and spice balance. Our background in professional dessert baking ensures reliable results every time.
PEKIS – professional chef and recipe developer with over 25 years of experience, specialized in European and international cuisine.
Soft Gingerbread Flavor and Texture
Soft Gingerbread Recipe – Moist, Spiced, and Easy Holiday Favorite combines the comforting sweetness of molasses with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The texture is tender and moist, holding together beautifully while staying light. Each slice delivers a balance of sweetness and spice, making it appealing for both festive gatherings and everyday indulgence.
Easy Preparation and Reliable Results
With only 20 minutes preparation and 45 minutes baking, this cake fits perfectly into busy holiday schedules. The method is straightforward, using simple mixing steps and common ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. Consistent results make it a trustworthy choice whether baked for family dinners or special events. Even beginner bakers can achieve a cake that rises evenly, cuts cleanly, and looks elegant with minimal decoration.
Flexible Storage and Make-Ahead Options
Soft gingerbread keeps well for days, staying fresh and aromatic when stored properly. It can be enjoyed at room temperature, chilled in the refrigerator, or frozen for longer storage. Quick reheating at 300 °F (150 °C) restores the soft crumb and fills the kitchen with festive aroma. This flexibility makes it an ideal make-ahead dessert, reducing last-minute stress during celebrations.
Dietary Adaptations and Versatility
The recipe adapts easily to gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan diets by substituting flour blends, dairy alternatives, or egg replacements. These adjustments preserve the cake’s structure and flavor while making it accessible to different dietary needs. From simple powdered sugar to citrus glaze or whipped cream, serving options can be tailored to match casual or elegant occasions.
Why Soft Gingerbread Stands Out
Rich flavor, soft texture, and effortless preparation make this gingerbread a true holiday highlight. Perfect for Christmas tables, winter gatherings, or as a homemade gift, it carries tradition and comfort in every slice. Its adaptability and festive aroma ensure it remains a timeless favorite, bringing warmth and joy to seasonal baking.
Allergens
- Gluten (flour)
- Eggs
- Milk (butter, milk)
Substitution tips
- For gluten: Replace all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend.
- For dairy: Substitute butter with dairy-free margarine and milk with almond or oat milk.
- For eggs: Replace each egg with 60 g unsweetened applesauce or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water.
Vitamins and minerals (per serving)
- Vitamin A: 180 µg – supports vision and immune system
- Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg – helps energy metabolism
- Vitamin C: 0.5 mg – antioxidant support
- Vitamin D: 0.3 µg – aids calcium absorption
- Calcium: 90 mg – supports bone strength
- Iron: 2 mg – contributes to red blood cell formation
- Magnesium: 20 mg – supports muscle function
- Potassium: 210 mg – regulates fluid balance
Antioxidants (per serving)
- Polyphenols: 45 mg – support cardiovascular health
- Flavonoids: 30 mg – reduce inflammation
- Carotenoids: 20 µg – protect cells from oxidative stress
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