Gingerbread Pudding Cake

Name: Gingerbread Pudding Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup molasses; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup water; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the warm and inviting flavors of Gingerbread Pudding Cake, a delightful dessert that combines the richness of gingerbread with a luscious pudding-like texture.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:16:33.685Z

This Gingerbread Pudding Cake is a perfect blend of spices and sweetness, making it a cozy dessert for chilly evenings. The cake forms a soft, custardy base that is simply irresistible.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of warm spices and rich molasses
The perfect dessert for holiday gatherings and cozy nights
A unique pudding-like texture that is both comforting and indulgent

      

The History of Gingerbread

Gingerbread has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with its origins believed to be in Greece. The term 'gingerbread' is derived from the Old French word 'gingebras,' which referred to preserved ginger. Over time, various cultures have developed their own versions of gingerbread, often incorporating local spices and sweeteners. In medieval Europe, gingerbread was often crafted into elaborate shapes and decorated for special occasions, making it a symbol of celebration and festivity.

In America, gingerbread took on a life of its own during the colonial period, with recipes evolving to include molasses, a common sweetener among early settlers. This adaptation led to the creation of the beloved gingerbread cookie and cake we know today. The warm spices and rich flavors of gingerbread evoke memories of family gatherings and holiday cheer, making it a timeless favorite during the colder months.

Perfect Pairings

Gingerbread Pudding Cake is a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve it warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the toppings balances the warm spices and rich molasses, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

For those looking to elevate their dessert experience, consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top. The nuttiness complements the spiced cake, while the caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness. Fresh berries or citrus zest can also provide a refreshing burst of flavor, making each bite an exciting culinary adventure.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Gingerbread Pudding Cake, fear not! This dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. This will help maintain its deliciously moist texture and comforting flavors.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to indulge, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Enjoying a piece of this delightful cake on a chilly day is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your home.

Ingredients

For the cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses
1/2 cup milk

For the pudding

1 cup water
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Instructions

Prepare the oven and pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Combine wet ingredients

Add the egg, molasses, and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.

Combine mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Prepare pudding

In a saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Bring to a boil, stirring until thickened.

Assemble and bake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan. Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the batter. Bake for 35 minutes.

Cool and serve

Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or ice cream!

Serve warm for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

Gingerbread Pudding Cake shines as a holiday dessert, but it can also be a delightful treat any time of year. Consider serving it at family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a cozy end to a weeknight dinner. Its inviting aroma and rich flavors are sure to impress guests and create lasting memories.

For a festive touch, garnish the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving. This not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds an extra hint of sweetness that complements the spices. Pair it with warm beverages like spiced cider or a rich cup of cocoa for a complete winter-themed experience.

Variations to Try

While the traditional Gingerbread Pudding Cake is a classic, you can easily put your own spin on it. For a chocolate twist, consider adding cocoa powder to the dry ingredients or mixing in chocolate chips for a rich, decadent version. If you prefer a fruitier flavor, try incorporating chopped apples or pears into the batter for added moisture and sweetness.

Experimenting with spices is another fun way to customize this recipe. Adding a touch of cardamom or allspice can deepen the flavor profile and introduce new aromatic elements to the dish. Additionally, swapping out molasses for honey or maple syrup can offer a different sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake batter and pudding mixture a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, although the flavor will vary.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.