The moment I pulled my warm gingerbread cake from the oven, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, instantly transporting me back to cozy family gatherings on chilly winter evenings. With its sweet and spicy aroma filling the air, this Gingerbread Poke Cake captivates the heart and taste buds alike. It's not just a cake; it's an experience that combines rich flavors with a delightful moist texture, thanks to the luscious soak of caramel. Plus, this dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. You’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser—perfect for festive gatherings or simple weeknight treats. Are you ready to create some warmth in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
What makes this Gingerbread Poke Cake special?
Warm, Spiced Goodness: This Gingerbread Poke Cake is infused with the perfect balance of spices that evoke the essence of the holidays. Soaked in Caramel: The caramel soak elevates it to a whole new level of moistness and sweetness. Creamy Whipped Topping: Topped with cinnamon-nutmeg whipped cream, this cake is a heavenly delight in every bite. Crunchy Gingersnap Crumble: The gingersnap crumble adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor contrasting the soft cake. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or just craving a cozy dessert, this cake shines. If you love seasonal treats, you might also enjoy our Cherry Poke Cake or Strawberry Champagne Cake. Enjoy every moment you spend baking this delightful dessert!
Gingerbread Poke Cake Ingredients
Unlock the secret to a moist and delightful treat!
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Ideal for achieving the perfect cake texture.
• Baking powder – Helps the cake rise beautifully for that fluffy feel.
• Ground ginger – Adds a warm, aromatic spice that defines gingerbread.
• Ground cinnamon – A classic spice to enhance the cake's warmth and flavor.
• Ground cloves – Offers a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
• Molasses – Provides rich sweetness and a dark color, quintessential for gingerbread.
• Brown sugar – For a wonderful, caramel-like richness in every slice.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture.
• Milk – Contributes to the cake's tenderness and keeps it moist.
• Vanilla extract – A touch of sweetness that harmonizes all the flavors.
For the Caramel Soak
• Caramel sauce – The key to infusing that irresistible moistness in your Gingerbread Poke Cake.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
• Heavy cream – The base for a luscious, fluffy topping.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream perfectly without graininess.
• Cinnamon – Enhances the spiced notes of the cake and adds warmth.
• Nutmeg – The secret ingredient that brings out festive flavors in the whipped cream.
For the Gingersnap Crumble
• Gingersnap cookies – Crushed for that delightful crunch and bursts of flavor.
• Butter – Binds the gingersnap crumble together and adds richness.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re just a whisk away from creating a Gingerbread Poke Cake that’ll warm hearts and bellies alike!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Gingerbread Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. In another bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramel Soak
While the cake is cooling, prepare the luscious caramel soak. In a saucepan over medium heat, gently warm your caramel sauce until it’s pourable—this should take about 5 minutes. Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake. Carefully pour the warm caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes and infuse the flavors of this Gingerbread Poke Cake.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Using an electric mixer, whip on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until soft peaks form. The whipped cream should be airy but still hold its shape. Once ready, spread the fluffy cinnamon-nutmeg whipped cream generously over the soaked gingerbread cake, creating a beautiful and inviting layer on top.
Step 4: Make the Gingersnap Crumble
In a small bowl, crush gingersnap cookies into coarse crumbs, leaving some larger pieces for added texture. Melt butter in a microwave-safe dish and mix it with the crushed gingersnaps until well combined. Spread the gingersnap crumble over the whipped cream layer on your Gingerbread Poke Cake, ensuring every bite has that delightful crunch and burst of ginger flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the cake to fully soak in the caramel. When ready to serve, slice into squares, revealing the moist interior and fluffy topping. Present your Gingerbread Poke Cake at holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, and watch everyone delight in its spiced goodness!
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Poke Cake
• Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; over-baking can dry out the cake. Check with a toothpick around the 30-minute mark.
• Caramel Consistency: Ensure your caramel sauce is warm, not hot, when pouring over the cake to allow for better absorption.
• Poking Holes: Use the back of a wooden spoon gently but firmly to create holes; too shallow won't soak enough, while too deep might break the cake.
• Whipping Cream: Don’t over-whip the cream to avoid graininess; stop once you see soft peaks forming for that perfect texture.
• Refrigeration is Key: Allow the cake to chill for at least 2 hours after assembly. This enhances the flavors and makes it easier to cut into neat squares.
Enjoy making this delightful Gingerbread Poke Cake with these helpful tips!
Gingerbread Poke Cake Variations
Feel free to give your Gingerbread Poke Cake a personal touch with these delightful twists that will surely excite your taste buds!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy milk with almond or coconut milk and use coconut cream for the whipped topping. Enjoy the subtle nutty flavor!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This lovely alternative ensures every bite remains just as tender and moist!
-
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the cake batter for an exciting depth of flavor. These spices will awaken your senses in every slice!
-
Fruit-Infused: Fold in dried cranberries or chopped apples into the cake batter for added texture and a sweet surprise. Fresh fruit pairs beautifully with the rich spices.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the gingersnap crumble for an added crunch and nutty flavor. This gives the cake an even more delightful bite.
-
Caramel Apple Twist: Replace the caramel soak with apple cider caramel sauce for a festive fall flair. The sweet apple flavors complement the gingerbread beautifully!
-
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoon water = 1 egg) in place of eggs and coconut whipped cream for a deliciously vegan treat.
-
Added Heat: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground black pepper to the cake batter for a subtle kick and intriguing warmth. It’s a fun surprise at the end!
Don’t forget to explore more festive recipes like Banana Cake Roll and Raspberry Roll Cake to complement your winter baking adventures!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Poke Cake?
As you indulge in the delightful flavors of this sweet treat, consider complementing it with these mouthwatering pairings.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness offers a wonderful contrast to the cake’s spiced sweetness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crisp texture elevate the overall flavor experience of your meal.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with clove and nutmeg makes for a comforting accompaniment, enhancing the cake's cozy vibe.
- Pumpkin Soup: This velvety soup provides a rich and savory balance to the dessert’s sweet profile.
- Gingerbread Ice Cream: Amplify the ginger theme with this creamy delight echoing the spices in the poke cake.
- Pecan Praline Bars: A crunchy, caramelized treat that mirrors the cake's textures while offering a nutty twist.
A fruit salad featuring crisp apples and tart cranberries brings a refreshing burst that balances the richness of the cake. When it comes to dessert, don't forget to pair it with a hot cup of spiced chai to complete your cozy gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Poke Cake
Fridge: Store the Gingerbread Poke Cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining its delicious moisture and flavors.
Freezer: If you want to make it ahead of time, slice and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, consider microwaving it for 15-20 seconds. This revives the cake’s moistness and makes the whipped cream even more inviting!
Serving Tip: Always add fresh whipped cream just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Poke Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising flavor! You can bake the gingerbread cake and prepare the caramel soak up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the cooled cake covered in plastic wrap and keep the caramel in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain freshness, whip the cream and make the gingersnap crumble right before serving. When it’s time to enjoy your Gingerbread Poke Cake, poke holes in the cake, pour the caramel over, and top with the whipped cream and crumble for that just-made taste. This process ensures that every slice delivers the same delightful warmth and moisture as if freshly made!
Gingerbread Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Gingerbread Poke Cake?
Absolutely! For this Gingerbread Poke Cake, opt for ingredients that are fresh and high-quality. For the spices, choose ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that haven’t expired to ensure the best flavor. When selecting molasses, look for a brand that’s rich and dark; it can truly elevate your cake. Fresh eggs and good-quality heavy cream for the topping will also enhance the overall taste.
How should I store my Gingerbread Poke Cake?
Very simple! Store the Gingerbread Poke Cake in an airtight container or cover it well with plastic wrap. It can be maintained in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it's chilled properly to keep its delectable moisture and flavors intact, as those little pockets of caramel soak make it the treat we adore.
Can I freeze my Gingerbread Poke Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Gingerbread Poke Cake, slice individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and you'll have a moist and flavorful cake just waiting to be indulged!
What if my cake turns out dry?
Don’t fret! If your Gingerbread Poke Cake ends up too dry, the first step is to ensure you properly soak it with caramel sauce while it’s still warm. If it’s already baked, you can also brush a little milk or cream over the top to revive its moisture. Next time, check the baking time around the 30-minute mark and adjust accordingly; ovens can vary widely!
Is the Gingerbread Poke Cake safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, it can be! The traditional Gingerbread Poke Cake does not contain nuts, making it a suitable option for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check the labels of your individual ingredients, especially the cream or any pre-packaged items, to ensure they are nut-free. If you’re serving guests, it’s always a good idea to ask if anyone has specific dietary restrictions.
How can I enhance the flavor profile of my Gingerbread Poke Cake?
Great question! To infuse even more warmth into your cake, consider adding orange zest or a splash of whiskey to the caramel sauce. These little additions can take your Gingerbread Poke Cake to the next level! Additionally, experimenting with different spices like allspice or cardamom in your cake batter can also introduce delightful twists. Happy baking!
Irresistible Gingerbread Poke Cake with Sweet Whipped Cream
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- Electric Mixer
- saucepan
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Baking powder
- 1 tablespoon Ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Ground cloves
- 1 cup Molasses
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk
- 2 teaspoon Vanilla extract
For the Caramel Soak
- 1 cup Caramel sauce
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1 4 Powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1 4 Nutmeg
For the Gingersnap Crumble
- 1 cup Gingersnap cookies crushed
- 1 2 Butter melted
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. In another bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the caramel soak. Warm the caramel sauce in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Once the cake has cooled for 10 minutes, poke holes evenly all over the cake and pour the warm caramel sauce over it.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream generously over the soaked gingerbread cake.
- Crush the gingersnap cookies and mix with melted butter. Spread the gingersnap crumble over the whipped cream layer.
- Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Leave a Reply