Old-Time Ginger And Molasses Cake
A classic ginger and molasses cake with warm spices and rich flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings and dessert lovers seeking nostalgic, moist, and flavorful treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix boiling water and shortening until well combined.
- Add sugar, molasses, and beaten egg to the mixture and stir.
- Sift together self-rising flour, soda, cinnamon, and ginger, then gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 8-inch square pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Optional: Top with whipped cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mixing in some chopped candied ginger can amplify the spice. Make sure to let the cake cool completely before serving to enhance its texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It also complements a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve it alongside poached eggs for brunch or as a sweet finish to a savory meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just heated through. If you prefer, you can also enjoy the cake cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Ginger And Molasses Cake contains roughly 379 calories, with 5g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can bake it a day in advance, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container. Just remember to add any toppings like whipped cream just before serving.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain the cake's structure and moisture. Be sure to check the baking instructions on your gluten-free flour for best results.
How can I make the cake more spicy?
To amp up the spice level, you can increase the amount of cinnamon and ginger in the recipe. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for complexity. Adjust these spices according to your taste preference to create the perfect balance.
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).