Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To Make the Frosting

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This step is important for achieving a rich and creamy frosting that spreads easily without lumps.
2. Once the cream cheese and butter are fully combined, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled cake. You can use a spatula or a butter knife to spread it evenly across the top. For a decorative touch, you could sprinkle a little cinnamon or ground ginger over the frosting, or even top it with a few candied ginger pieces for extra flavor and texture.

Serving and Storage

Once the frosting is applied, slice the gingerbread cake into squares and serve. This cake is best enjoyed within a day or two, as it tends to dry out over time. However, if you need to store it, place the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If you prefer to make the cake ahead of time, it can be stored without the frosting for up to 3 days. Frost it just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and creamy. This cake can also be frozen without frosting for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw the cake at room temperature for several hours, then frost as desired.

Tips

• If you want a lighter, fluffier cake, make sure to sift the flour before measuring it. This helps remove any lumps and ensures the flour is aerated.
• For a deeper flavor, let the cake sit for an hour or two before serving, allowing the spices to meld together. This also makes the cake even more moist.
• If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can use a simple powdered sugar glaze or whipped cream as an alternative.