Name: Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake for a Cozy Holiday Celebration
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for gluten-free version.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Acts as a leavening agent; no substitutions necessary.); 2 tsp Ground Ginger (Main spice flavor; reduce quantity for milder taste.); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste or omit if desired.); 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Can be swapped for pumpkin pie spice.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup Dark Molasses (Dark corn syrup can be a substitute.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a moister cake.); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs can work as vegetarian substitute.); 1 cup Milk (Non-dairy milk can be used.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Replace with coconut oil for dairy-free.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (No substitutes needed, may omit.); 1 cup Whipping Cream (Heavy cream recommended; coconut cream for dairy-free.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust for desired sweetness.); 2 stems Rosemary Sprigs (For garnish.); 3 pieces Star Anise (Decorative element with flavor.); 2 sticks Cinnamon Sticks (For rustic decoration.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Dust for snowy effect.)

The aroma of warm spices fills the kitchen, instantly pulling you into the cozy embrace of the holiday season. I can hardly resist the soft, inviting allure of a Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake that not only tastes divine but also serves as a festive centerpiece for any gathering. This cake, with its delightful balance of rich molasses and aromatic spices, takes minimal time to prepare while delivering a stunning visual and flavor experience. Topped with luscious whipped cream and playful decorations, it’s the perfect dessert for anyone looking to brighten their holiday celebrations without the fuss of complicated recipes. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland with this delightful treat?

Why is this cake a holiday essential?

Festive charm: This Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a stunning centerpiece that captures the essence of the holidays!
Easily adaptable: Don’t worry if you have dietary needs; with simple substitutions, it can easily become gluten-free or vegan.
Effortless preparation: The straightforward steps mean you’ll have more time to enjoy with loved ones rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
Deliciously spiced: Rich molasses and aromatic spices create a cozy warmth, making each slice a comforting hug in dessert form.
Show-stopping appeal: Impress guests with a beautifully decorated cake that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for holiday gatherings or intimate dinners.
For even more festive ideas, check out my delicious Spiced Gooey Cake or the charming Pancake Poppers Bites.

Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; substitute with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; no substitutions necessary for the required rise.
Ground Ginger – Provides the main spice flavor; no substitutions; reduce quantity for a milder taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; adjust to taste or omit if desired.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the cake’s warmth; can be swapped for pumpkin pie spice for an alternative twist.
Salt – Balances sweetness; an essential component that should not be omitted.
Dark Molasses – Serves as the rich flavor base; dark corn syrup can be a substitute, though flavor will vary.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness; brown sugar can be used for a moister cake.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; flax eggs work as a vegetarian substitute.
Milk – Provides moisture; feel free to use non-dairy milk in place of regular milk.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moistness and flavor; replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor; no substitutes are needed, but it can be omitted if desired.

For the Frosting

Whipping Cream – Creates a light and fluffy frosting; heavy cream is recommended, or use coconut cream for dairy-free.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetener for the frosting; adjust the amount for your desired level of sweetness.

For Decoration

Rosemary Sprigs – Beautiful and fragrant for garnish; adds an earthy contrast to sweet frosting.
Star Anise – A delightful decorative element that also offers a hint of flavor; make it visually appealing!
Cinnamon Sticks – Great for decoration and complements the gingerbread’s spice profile; use for a rustic touch.
Powdered Sugar – Dust over the finished cake for a snowy effect; you can reduce for less sweetness.

This Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake is a show-stopping holiday dessert that beautifully marries festive flavors with comforting warmth.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, prepare a Bundt pan by spraying it generously with cooking spray, ensuring every crevice is coated. This will help your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined, making sure there are no clumps. This step ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dark molasses, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are completely combined and smooth. This rich mixture will provide the distinctive flavor and moisture needed for your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The goal is to create a thick batter that captures the warmth and spice of gingerbread without losing its fluffy texture as it bakes.

Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the thick batter into the prepared Bundt pan and use a spatula to smooth the top. Ensure the batter is evenly distributed in the pan to achieve a uniform shape. This will help create the perfect wreath form after baking and cooling.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown color on the top and use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.

Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully invert the Bundt pan to release your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake. Let it cool completely on the wire rack before frosting to avoid melting the whipped cream.

Step 8: Whip the Cream
While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by whipping the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a chilled bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the cream until soft peaks form. A chilled bowl helps the cream whip faster and retain its fluffiness.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate
Once the cake has cooled completely, generously frost the top and sides with the whipped cream. For a festive touch, decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to create a beautiful snowy effect, completing your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake for holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and flavor. The whipped cream frosting, however, is best prepared just before serving to keep it fluffy and fresh. To serve, simply frost the cake with your prepared whipped cream and decorate as desired, resulting in a delightful centerpiece that’s just as delicious and impressive as if you made it all at once! This strategy provides you with more time to enjoy holiday gatherings while treating your guests to a wonderful dessert.

What to Serve with Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

As you prepare to create cherished holiday memories, consider these delightful pairings that elevate your festive table.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor create a beautiful contrast to the spiced cake, making each bite a comforting delight.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced drink echoes the gingerbread’s flavors, adding a festive cheer to your gathering and warming your guests from the inside out.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispiness and earthy notes balance the sweetness of the cake, providing a delightful pop of freshness and texture to your holiday feast.
Gingerbread Cookies: Continue the festive theme with these classic treats; their familiar taste complements the Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake beautifully, creating a cohesive dessert tableau.
Cranberry Sauce: Bright and tart, this sauce cuts through the sweetness of the cake, making your dessert experience both balanced and memorable.
Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, a steaming mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows offers a cozy finish that wraps up your holiday meal with warmth.
Pecan Pie: The nutty crunch and caramel sweetness of this dessert pair wonderfully with the wreath cake, making for a decadent dessert spread.
Spiced Apple Cider: This refreshing drink brings a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the cake, perfectly complementing your holiday experience.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses with fruit preserves adds flavor complexity, balancing the sweetness while pleasing the palate of your guests.

Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake Variations

Feel free to make this holiday cake your own by trying these delightful twists and substitutions!

Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and non-dairy milk instead of regular eggs and milk for a plant-based treat. Combining flavors can create a unique texture and keep all that warm goodness while catering to various dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour—perfect for gluten-sensitive guests! This change ensures everyone can enjoy a piece without missing out on the rich, spiced flavor.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. Not only does this add texture, but it also brings an earthy depth to the cake that complements the spices beautifully.
Citrusy Twist: Adding the zest of one orange or lemon enhances the cake’s flavor profile. The bright citrus notes will perfectly balance the rich molasses and spices, making each bite a refreshing delight.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the whipped cream for an indulgent touch. This chocolatey addition makes for a surprisingly delightful contrast that will have your guests raving!
Herbal Garnish: Instead of traditional decorations, garnish with fresh mint leaves to bring a unique look and hint of minty flavor. This twist is especially striking when served to impress during holiday dinners.
Festive Fruit Twist: Decorate with pomegranate seeds or cranberries for a burst of tartness and festive color. This unique touch elevates your cake and visually enhances the holiday spirit of the dessert.

For more holiday dessert ideas, you might enjoy my Spice Roll Cake or the fun sweetness of Dirt Cake Cookies.

Expert Tips for Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Chill Your Equipment: Ensure your bowl and whisk are chilled before whipping the cream; this helps achieve perfect fluffy peaks without melting.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for an accurate measurement; too much flour can lead to a dense cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender.
Check Oven Temp: Use an oven thermometer to verify your oven’s temperature; an inaccurate oven can affect baking times and outcomes.
Stay Flexible with Decor: Feel free to get creative with decorations such as cranberries or edible flowers for a unique twist on your Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake

Fridge: Keep leftover Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its moisture and flavor for festive snacking.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: Gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if desired warm. Avoid overheating to maintain its delightful texture.

Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, ensure your eggs are fresh. They should be stored in a refrigerator and checked for any abnormalities. Look for dark molasses that is smooth and thick; avoid any that appear crystallized or overly thickened.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of this cake?
For optimal freshness, keep any leftover Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor while keeping it delicious for those late-night holiday cravings!

Can I freeze my Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake?
Very! To freeze, once your cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What if my cake turns out too dry?
If your cake ends up dry, don’t worry—it happens to the best of us! This can often be resolved by ensuring you measure your ingredients correctly—scoop and level flour rather than packing it in the cup. If you find yourself with a dry cake, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water until it’s absorbed to add moisture back in.

Are there any allergen considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for the best results. Additionally, for vegan options, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), and use non-dairy milk and coconut oil in place of regular milk and butter.

Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Yes, you can! I often bake my Spiced Gingerbread Wreath Cake a day in advance for optimal flavor. Just make sure to frost and decorate it shortly before serving to maintain the fluffiness of the whipped cream and freshness of the cake, enhancing your holiday gathering’s delightful presentation.