This classic Ginger Cake recipe blends the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger with the deep richness of molasses for a perfectly spiced dessert. Originating from early American baking traditions, this cake is moist, dense, and irresistibly fragrant. It pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze. Ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday spreads, or an afternoon treat, this recipe captures the nostalgic essence of homemade desserts from a bygone era.
Ingredients
- ¾ cups sugar
- ¾ cup lard (or substitute unsalted butter)
- ½ cup molasses
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and lard (or butter) until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the molasses and warm water until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
Step 4: Combine & Mix
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve plain, with powdered sugar, or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Use warm water as written to help dissolve sugar and molasses smoothly.
- Substitute butter or shortening for lard if preferred; texture will be slightly different but still tender.
- Add a few tablespoons of buttermilk for extra tang and tenderness (reduce water slightly).
- Bake in a greased 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan for best height and crumb.
- Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream for a simple finish.
- For deeper spice flavor, increase ginger and cinnamon slightly or add nutmeg.
- Fold in ½ cup chopped dates or raisins for a classic vintage variation.
- Check doneness with a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow cake to cool before slicing to prevent crumbling.
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 190mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 20IUCalcium: 45mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!