Delightfully Moist Gingerbread Bundt Cake Recipe

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Introduction

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s one dessert that never fails to delight—a Gingerbread Bundt Cake. This festive treat brings together the cozy warmth of classic gingerbread spices and the elegance of a bundt cake, creating a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With its moist texture, bold flavors, and stunning presentation, this cake is perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to create the ultimate gingerbread bundt cake recipe. From tips for the best ingredients to step-by-step instructions, you’ll be ready to impress your guests with a cake that tastes as incredible as it looks.

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What is Gingerbread Bundt Cake?

At its core, a Gingerbread Bundt Cake is a spiced cake baked in a bundt pan, which gives it its signature ring shape. This cake takes traditional gingerbread—often associated with cookies and houses—and transforms it into a rich, moist dessert that’s ideal for the holidays.

The charm of this cake is in its incredible versatility. Whether you prefer it topped with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a maple cinnamon glaze, or decadent cream cheese frosting, this dessert is customizable to fit your preferences. Plus, it’s a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Bursting with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake is a flavor-packed holiday treat.
• Moist and Tender: The combination of molasses and buttermilk ensures a perfectly moist texture.
• Simple Yet Stunning: This cake may look impressive, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
• Versatile: Pair it with different glazes, toppings, or even serve it plain—it’s delicious every way!

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Recipe Details

Step	Details
Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour 5 minutes
Servings	12 slices
Yield	One 10-inch bundt cake

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Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt pan generously with butter or nonstick spray, and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt, whisking until the dry ingredients are evenly blended. This guarantees that the spices are evenly blended throughout the entire cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving a soft and delicate cake texture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually mix in the molasses and vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk in three additions, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined—overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Evenly transfer the batter into the prepped bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

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Optional Glaze

If you want to elevate your gingerbread bundt cake, consider adding a glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or maple syrup, and cinnamon until smooth.
2. After the cake has fully cooled, pour the glaze over the top, letting it flow down the sides in an elegant cascade.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	47g
Fat	9g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	30g

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Pro Tips for the Best Gingerbread Bundt Cake

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps ensure even mixing and a smoother batter.
2. Don’t Skip Greasing the Pan: Bundt pans can be tricky, so take extra care to grease all the nooks and crannies.
3. Choose Quality Molasses: Unsulfured molasses adds rich flavor without bitterness.
4. Add Mix-Ins: For extra texture, consider folding in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips.
5. Cool Completely Before Glazing: A warm cake can cause the glaze to melt and slide off.

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Frosting Variations for Gingerbread Bundt Cake

Frosting can elevate the flavors of your Gingerbread Bundt Cake and make it even more visually appealing. Here are some delectable frosting ideas to match the warm, spiced flavors of the cake:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting

A classic choice, cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that complements the bold spices in the cake.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)

Instructions:

1. Mix the cream cheese and butter together until they become smooth and light.
2. Whip the cream cheese and butter together until they become smooth and airy.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, making sure each addition is thoroughly combined before adding more.
4. Stir in vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
5. Spread or pipe over the cooled bundt cake.

2. Maple Cinnamon Glaze

This glaze adds a sweet and spicy touch, enhancing the flavors of gingerbread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and milk, and whisk until smooth.
2. Modify the consistency by incorporating additional milk for a lighter, more fluid glaze, or more powdered sugar to achieve a thicker, richer texture.
3. Drizzle over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

3. Brown Butter Frosting

Brown butter gives the frosting a nutty, caramel-like depth that pairs beautifully with the cake’s spices.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly.
2. Whisk the powdered sugar into the brown butter.
3. Add vanilla extract and milk, stirring until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
4. Pour over the cake for a glossy, rich finish.

4. Lemon Glaze

The citrusy tang of a lemon glaze provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of one lemon

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
2. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
3. Drizzle over the cooled cake for a bright, zesty finish.

5. Chocolate Ganache

For chocolate lovers, a silky ganache creates a luxurious topping that adds richness.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
2. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips in a mixing bowl. Allow it to rest for 2-3 minutes, then gently stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Mix in vanilla extract. Let the ganache cool for a few minutes before drizzling it over the cake.

6. Spiced Buttercream

This frosting combines the spices in the cake for a seamless flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ginger
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Beat the butter until creamy and smooth.
2. Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar, ensuring it’s fully combined after each addition.
3. Stir in the spices and milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
4. Pipe or spread onto the bundt cake.

7. Vanilla Bean Glaze

Simple yet elegant, a vanilla bean glaze adds subtle sweetness and visual appeal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or extract)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla bean paste until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the cake, allowing the specks of vanilla bean to show for a polished look.

8. Salted Caramel Drizzle

For a touch of decadence, salted caramel adds a sweet and salty flair.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Simmer the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and transforms into a rich amber color.
2. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble).
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and salt.
4. Let cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.

9. Whipped Cream Topping

Light and airy, whipped cream is perfect for a less sweet but still satisfying topping.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a cold mixing bowl, beat the cream until it reaches soft peaks.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Pipe or dollop onto the cake just before serving.

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These frosting variations give you endless ways to customize your Gingerbread Bundt Cake, ensuring it’s as unique and delicious as your holiday celebrations. Which one will you try first? 🎂

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You’ll Also Love

• Pumpkin Gingerbread Bundt Cake

Add a fall twist by combining pumpkin puree with traditional gingerbread spices. This variation is moist, flavorful, and perfect for Thanksgiving.

• Chocolate Gingerbread Bundt Cake

For chocolate lovers, mix cocoa powder into the batter and top with a chocolate ganache glaze. This decadent version is a showstopper.

• Gluten-Free Gingerbread Bundt Cake

Made with almond flour or gluten-free baking mix, this cake ensures everyone at the table can enjoy a slice.

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FAQs About Gingerbread Bundt Cake

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Creative Variations to Try

1. Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Filling: Add a layer of sweet cream cheese in the middle of the cake for a delightful surprise.
2. Mini Gingerbread Bundt Cakes: Use mini bundt pans to create individual servings—perfect for holiday gifts or parties.
3. Vegan Gingerbread Bundt Cake: Substitute dairy-free milk and butter to create a plant-based version of this classic dessert.

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Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with a Gingerbread Bundt Cake. Its rich, spiced flavors and stunning presentation make it a standout dessert that’s both nostalgic and modern. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake is guaranteed to bring joy to your holiday table.

Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake the most delicious gingerbread bundt cake recipe you’ve ever tried. Happy baking and happy holidays!

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Share Your Creations

Try out these Gingerbread Bundt Cake recipes and let your creativity shine! We’d love to see your sweet creations. Tag us on Instagram at @SweetEatsRecipes and use the hashtag #GingerbreadBundtCake to get featured.