Delightful Gingerbread Man Cake

This Gingerbread Man Sheet Cake is a festive and flavorful treat that brings the warm, spicy notes of gingerbread to your dessert table. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it combines the soft, tender texture of a spice cake with a creamy, cinnamon-spiked cream cheese frosting that everyone will love.

I created this recipe after hunting for the perfect dessert to share at my family’s Christmas dinner. Now, it’s become our yearly tradition that everyone eagerly anticipates.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure and balance. Use high-quality flour for the best results.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Help the cake rise beautifully.
• Ground ginger: The star spice for that signature gingerbread taste.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and complements the other spices.
• Ground nutmeg and ground cloves: Provide a rich depth of flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the sweetness and flavor of the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Softened creates a tender texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a molasses-like richness.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together. Make sure they’re room temperature for better blending.
• Molasses: Gives the cake its distinctive gingerbread flavor.
• Buttermilk: Ensures a moist and tender crumb while adding a subtle tang.

• Cream cheese: Softened creates the rich creamy base.
• Unsalted butter: Softened balances the tanginess with a smooth buttery taste.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and ties the frosting to the spiced theme of the cake.

How To Make Gingerbread Man Sheet Cake

Prepare the pan and oven:

Grease a 9×13-inch sheet cake pan thoroughly and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Mix the dry ingredients:

In a medium bowl whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of the spices which is crucial for the cake’s flavor.

Cream butter and sugar:

In a large bowl beat softened butter and brown sugar using a mixer until the mixture is fluffy and creamy. This step creates the base for the cake’s moisture and texture.

Incorporate eggs and molasses:

Add eggs one at a time beating after each addition to ensure they’re fully combined. Stir in molasses for that classic gingerbread flavor.

Combine wet and dry ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients mixing just until smooth. This method keeps the batter light and well-balanced.

Transfer to pan and bake:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and gently smooth the top for even baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting.

Make the cream cheese frosting:

Combine the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl and beat until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon mixing until creamy and fluffy. Spread over the cooled cake for a luxurious finish.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is how the molasses brings out the nostalgic holiday flavors that remind me of preparing gingerbread cookies as a kid with my mom. That smell is pure magic.

Storage Tips

To store keep leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. To freeze wrap individual slices in plastic wrap then place them in an airtight container for up to three months.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar but the flavor may lose some depth. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for five minutes before using.

Serving Suggestions

Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot spiced cider. For a festive touch sprinkle candied ginger pieces or cinnamon sugar on the frosting.

This Gingerbread Man Sheet Cake truly embodies holiday cheer combining heartwarming flavors with easy steps. Give it a try this season and create delicious memories with your loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this cake so flavorful?

The combination of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives this cake its distinct holiday flavor. Molasses also adds a rich, deep sweetness.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day ahead, allow it to cool completely, and cover it tightly. Add the frosting just before serving for best results.

→ How do I ensure the cake stays moist?

Using buttermilk in the batter helps keep the cake moist. Be sure not to overbake and check with a toothpick for doneness.

→ Can I substitute molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of dark corn syrup or honey, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.