This Gingerbread Cake is rich with warm spices and molasses, delivering classic holiday flavor in every moist, tender bite. Topped with a tangy cinnamon cream cheese frosting and finished with a luscious caramel drizzle, this cake is perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy winter dessert.

ingredients

Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting and Caramel Drizzle

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour
baking soda
ground ginger
ground cinnamon
ground cloves
ground nutmeg
salt
unsalted butter
brown sugar
eggs
molasses
buttermilk
vanilla extract

For the frosting:
cream cheese
unsalted butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon

For the caramel drizzle:
granulated sugar
unsalted butter
heavy cream
salt

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan or two 8-inch round pans.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.

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

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

To make the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, and beat until fluffy.

Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.

For the caramel drizzle, melt the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once fully melted and amber in color, add butter and stir until incorporated. Slowly pour in cream and whisk until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and let it cool slightly before drizzling over the frosted cake.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12–16 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 60 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours

Variations

Add finely chopped crystallized ginger to the batter for extra zing.
Swap buttermilk for sour cream for a richer texture.
Use maple cream cheese frosting instead of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
Top with candied pecans or crushed gingersnaps for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel can be used if you’re short on time.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it the next day.

What type of molasses should I use?

Use unsulphured molasses (like Grandma’s brand). Avoid blackstrap molasses as it’s too bitter.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, divide the batter into cupcake tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Slightly, but keep in mind it affects both texture and flavor.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make your own with milk and lemon juice or vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp acid).

Can I omit the caramel drizzle?

Yes, it’s optional, but it adds an extra indulgent touch.

Can I use whipped cream instead of frosting?

You can, but it won’t hold up as well for storage or presentation.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, though younger kids may prefer a version without the caramel drizzle.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting and Caramel Drizzle is the ultimate holiday dessert—spicy, sweet, creamy, and rich with comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a winter celebration or enjoying it fireside with a hot drink, this cake delivers festive flair and crowd-pleasing taste in every slice.