If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy dessert that perfectly balances warm spices with rich chocolate, then you are in for a real treat. This Chocolate Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe brings together the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, infused with moist cocoa and topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s the ultimate dessert for festive gatherings or whenever you crave a slice of homey indulgence that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows baking ingredients arranged on a grey textured surface with a dark background. Starting on the left, there is a large clear jar with a cork lid filled with white flour. In front of it, a wooden board holds a pale yellow block of butter on white paper, and a brown egg rests nearby. Next to the egg, a metal measuring cup is full of light brown sugar. Behind the sugar, there is a small glass jar with a dark brown powder and a black spoon inside. On the right side, a white mixing bowl sits behind a folded red and white checkered cloth that has a small white jug with a dark liquid inside. On the cloth, a small wooden spoon contains some light brown powder and rests beside a small green sprig. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet each plays a crucial role in creating the signature flavor and texture of this cake. From the aromatic spices that awaken your senses to the rich molasses that deepens the sweetness, every component is essential.

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep chocolate richness without overwhelming the spice.
Ground Ginger: The star spice that infuses the cake with warm, zesty notes.
Ground Cinnamon: Provides a sweet, aromatic hint to complement the ginger.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents create lightness and help the cake rise perfectly.
Salted Butter: Adds moisture and richness, balancing sweet and spice beautifully.
Brown Sugar: For deep sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor.
Molasses: Delivers that classic gingerbread darkness and complex sweetness.
Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors for a harmonious profile.
Large Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a tender crumb.
Boiling Water: Helps dissolve cocoa and spices, creating a smooth, luscious batter.
Cream Cheese (for frosting): Offers a tangy creaminess that perfectly contrasts spicy cake.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a luxurious texture.
Orange Zest: Adds a bright, citrus note that elevates the frosting.
Gingerbread Spice or Ground Cinnamon (for dusting): A final sprinkle to visually and aromatically complete the dessert.

How to Make Chocolate Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper to ensure an easy release after baking. This step ensures your cake comes out perfectly clean, ready to impress without sticking or crumbling.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. This blends all the spices evenly throughout the batter, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Molasses

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, molasses, and vanilla. This creates a fluffy, flavorful base that will keep your cake moist and tender.

Step 4: Add the Egg

Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, which helps bind the batter and adds richness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet, Adding Boiling Water

Add the flour mixture alternately with the boiling water, stirring gently with a wooden spoon just until combined. The hot water dissolves the cocoa and spices better, giving the batter a smooth consistency that’s neither too thick nor too runny.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely—this step is key to avoid sogginess.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter and cream cheese on high speed until creamy. Scrape the bowl down to ensure everything mixes evenly.

Step 8: Add Powdered Sugar, Vanilla, and Orange Zest

Gradually mix in powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, then add the vanilla extract and orange zest. Beat on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. If needed, adjust the consistency with a teaspoon of milk at a time.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top using an offset spatula. Then sprinkle a delicate dusting of gingerbread spice or cinnamon on the frosting for that extra touch of festive flair.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Cut the cake into 12 generous squares and be ready to enjoy each bite of this deliciously spiced, chocolaty beauty.

How to Serve Chocolate Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A close-up view of a square dark brown chocolate cake with a thick creamy white frosting spread evenly on top. The frosting has a slightly rough texture and is sprinkled with small yellow bits and a light dusting of brown powder. The cake is placed on a round wooden cake stand with a white base, held by a woman's hand using a small knife with a wooden handle and silver blade, slightly lifting the edge of the frosting. The background features a soft white marbled surface beneath the stand and an out-of-focus faint gray and brown area behind. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an inviting presentation, add a few fresh cranberries or candied ginger pieces on top of the frosting. A light sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans adds a pleasing contrast in texture and a nutty depth that complements the cake’s spice.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the cozy flavors. A warm drink like spiced chai tea or a cup of dark roast coffee makes an outstanding companion for the deep chocolate and gingerbread spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices of this Chocolate Gingerbread Cake on rustic wooden boards or festive plates for a homey feel. For parties, consider turning it into mini cake trifles with layers of frosting and fresh berries in clear glasses. It’s an unexpected yet delightful twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you’d like your cake slightly warm, let it come to room temperature and then heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire cake with frosting to preserve the cream cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of salted butter?

While butter gives the richest flavor and texture, margarine can be a substitute in a pinch, but the taste and moisture might not be quite the same. Salted butter also adds a subtle saltiness that balances the sweetness.

Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain structure.

Can I omit the molasses?

Molasses is key for that authentic gingerbread flavor and moistness. If you must, honey or dark corn syrup can be a mild substitute, but the cake will taste different and may be less dense.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted. Also, add powdered sugar gradually, and if needed, chill the frosting before spreading to firm it up for perfect spreading consistency.

Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?

Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting baking time accordingly. Check doneness with a toothpick and aim for a moist, springy texture typical of this cake.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of cozy flavors and delightful textures that bring warmth to any table. I truly hope you give it a try and enjoy every scrumptious slice as much as I do. Baking this cake can turn any day into a special occasion filled with happiness and rich, spiced charm.