Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight! Recipe

If you are searching for the perfect centerpiece dessert this season, look no further than the Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight! This cake wraps up all the warmth of the holidays in a beautiful Bundt shape, filled with rich spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that immediately evoke nostalgic comfort. Every bite offers a tender crumb sweetened by molasses and brown sugar, complemented perfectly by a cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream and festive accents. It’s not just a cake; it’s a joyful invitation to gather around and savor the cozy spirit of the holidays with every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem simple at first glance, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight! From the tenderizing buttermilk to the warming trio of spices, every selection elevates the texture, taste, and visual appeal of this festive treat.

• All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): The foundation that gives the cake its soft yet sturdy crumb.
• Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Helps the cake rise evenly for a light texture.
• Ground ginger (1 ½ teaspoons): The star spice that defines the cake’s warm, zesty profile.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds sweetness and depth to the spice blend.
• Ground cloves (½ teaspoon): Provides an earthy, aromatic undertone.
• Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Rounds out the spices with subtle sweetness.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the spice flavors.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): For richness and moisture throughout the cake.
• Dark brown sugar (1 ½ cups, packed): Brings deep caramel notes and moistness.
• Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
• Molasses (1 cup): Infuses the cake with that classic robust gingerbread flavor.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds tenderness and subtle tang that brightens the spice.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the buttermilk to ensure a tender rise.
• Heavy cream (2 cups): For the luscious whipped cream frosting topping.
• Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons + extra for dusting): Gives sweetness and a delicate finish.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for frosting): Adds aroma and flavor to the whipped cream.
• Cinnamon sticks, star anise, candied ginger slices, fresh rosemary sprigs: Beautiful, fragrant garnishes that make this cake a feast for the eyes and nose.

How to Make Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch Bundt or ring-shaped pan thoroughly, then line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. This step is key for that flawless wreath shape!

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this aerates the batter and creates a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the rich molasses and vanilla extract for that signature gingerbread taste and deep amber color.

Next, sift together the flour, baking powder, and all the warming spices: ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, plus the salt. Alternate adding this dry mixture and the buttermilk to your wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry. This alternating method helps keep the batter smooth and even. Finally, stir in the baking soda to give your cake a light lift once baked.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter carefully into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the thickest part of the cake comes out clean. After removing it from the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes—this helps it set and prevents breakage. Then, gently transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

For that perfect finishing touch, chill your mixing bowl and beaters, then whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract on medium-high speed. Stop whipping as soon as stiff peaks form to achieve a light yet stable frosting that won’t collapse.

Step 5: Decorate the Cake

Once the cake has fully cooled, use a star-shaped piping tip to adorn the edges with generous swirls of whipped cream. Then, get creative by tucking in cinnamon sticks, star anise, candied ginger slices, and sprigs of fresh rosemary. Finish with a gentle dusting of powdered sugar, evoking the image of delicate winter snow—a true seasonal masterpiece.

How to Serve Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight!

Garnishes

The garnishes carry this cake from delicious to dazzling. Cinnamon sticks and star anise aren’t just pretty—they add subtle aromas that mingle with the spicy cake. Candied ginger slices bring a chewy, sweet kick, while rosemary sprigs contribute a fresh, piney fragrance that enhances the holiday ambiance.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with warm drinks like spiced chai or hot apple cider. You can also offer a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce on the side to complement the dense, spiced cake with cool or sweet accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight! on a rustic wooden board or a festive holiday platter. Surround it with twinkling fairy lights, pinecones, or cranberries for an Instagram-worthy centerpiece. You might also serve individual wedges topped with a sprig of rosemary and a cinnamon stick to keep every slice feeling special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once decorated, store your cake covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and fresh for 3 to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to savor or share the joy.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake before decorating; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before applying the whipped cream topping and garnishes.

Reheating

This cake is best served at room temperature or chilled, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a warm slice, briefly microwave portions for 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the whipped cream.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream instead of heavy cream for the frosting?

Heavy cream whips up into thick, stable peaks ideal for frosting this cake. Regular cream has a lower fat content and won’t whip properly, so it’s best to stick with heavy cream for that fluffy, elegant finish.

Is buttermilk essential in this recipe?

Yes, buttermilk reacts with the baking soda to tenderize the cake and add a hint of tanginess that balances the deep spices and molasses. If you don’t have buttermilk, a good substitute is milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, left to sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To keep the same texture and flavor, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. The spices and molasses will still shine beautifully in the gluten-free version!

What’s the best way to pipe the whipped cream on the cake?

Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip for charming swirls around the edges. If you don’t have one, a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off works as a handy alternative. Pipe while the whipped cream is cold for clean, defined shapes.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or crystallized ginger would add lovely texture and holiday flair. Just fold them in gently with the dry ingredients before baking to avoid deflating your batter.

Final Thoughts

There really is something magical about the Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake – A Cozy Holiday Delight! It transforms your kitchen into a holiday haven with every delicious bite, spreading warmth and festive cheer like no other treat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and relish the heartwarming flavors of the season. Give it a try — your taste buds and your guests will thank you!

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