Kentucky Ginger-Molasses Cake
Kentucky Ginger-Molasses Cake is a rich, moist dessert with warm spices and robust molasses flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings and lovers of classic Southern baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the eggs, sugar, molasses, oil, cloves, and cinnamon in a large bowl; beat well.
- Dissolve the soda in 2 teaspoons warm water; add to the mixture.
- Add the flour and boiling water to the mixture.
- Beat well; the batter will be very thin.
- Pour into a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake for approximately 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using dark molasses instead of regular molasses. If you're out of cloves, allspice or nutmeg can be good substitutes. Ensure the baking soda is fresh for proper leavening. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This cake also freezes well, so consider making extra for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, try serving it alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee. This cake also makes a wonderful dessert for holiday gatherings and can be enjoyed as a sweet snack during the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kentucky Ginger-Molasses Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Ginger-Molasses Cake contains roughly 700 calories, with 4g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute Mazola oil with another neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. However, avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil, as they may alter the taste of the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.
Can I add additional spices or ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding chopped crystallized ginger for extra zing or incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. Just be mindful of the overall balance of flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).