The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake? This delectable dessert is a feast for the senses, boasting warm spices, rich chocolate, and a delightful cream filling. delicious Christmas shortbread bites As you slice into this beauty, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg will transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland.
Picture this: a snowy evening, family gathered around the table, laughter echoing through the air as everyone savors each bite of this show-stopping cake. The flavors mingle perfectly, creating a festive experience that warms your heart and fills your belly. festive eggnog muffins Trust me; you’ll want to make this cake a centerpiece for all your holiday celebrations.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules
- It features a delightful blend of spices that provide an authentic gingerbread flavor
- The stunning presentation will impress your friends and family at any gathering
- Enjoy it as a dessert or festive breakfast treat during the holidays!
I remember the first time I made this Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake; my family was blown away by its festive charm and rich flavors. refreshing Christmas punch.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for structure; ensure it’s fresh and measured correctly for best results.
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Ground Ginger: Use high-quality ginger for that perfect kick of spice in every bite.
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Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor; use it generously.
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Nutmeg: Just a pinch lends an aromatic touch; be careful not to overdo it!
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Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; double-check your expiry date for optimal rise.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter beautifully while contributing to the cake’s texture.
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Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature to help create a light and fluffy batter.
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Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; don’t forget to let it sit out before mixing.
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Molasses: Dark molasses provides moisture and that classic gingerbread taste we all love.
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Heavy Cream: For whipping into luscious frosting that complements the spices perfectly.
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Chocolate Ganache: Melted chocolate adds decadence; consider using semi-sweet or dark chocolate based on preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Sheet : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients : In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. The aroma should be inviting!
Create the Batter : In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add eggs one at a time followed by molasses until fully incorporated.
Combine Mixtures : Slowly mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cake tender!
Bake the Cake : Pour batter into prepared pan evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. You’ll know it’s done when it springs back gently when touched!
Cool & Roll Your Cake : Once baked, remove from oven and cool slightly before flipping onto powdered sugar-dusted parchment paper. Roll tightly while it’s still warm to shape it into a log.
Make Your Filling : Whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form. Unroll your cooled cake carefully and spread whipped cream evenly across the surface before rolling back up gently.
Add Chocolate Ganache Topping : Prepare ganache by melting chocolate with cream over low heat until smooth. Pour over chilled log cake allowing it to drip down sides for that wow factor.
Enjoy slicing into this festive Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake at your holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners—it’s sure to impress! sweet and salty Christmas crack.
You Must Know
- This delightful Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake is not just festive; it evokes warm memories of cozy holidays
- Its spiced aroma fills the air, setting a joyful mood
- Each bite offers a soft, moist texture paired with rich flavors, perfect for sharing with loved ones
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the gingerbread layers first; while they cool, whip up the cream filling and prepare your frosting. This sequence maximizes efficiency and ensures everything is ready when you need it.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the cake batter for extra texture. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange to give a unique twist to your log cake. For more inspiration, check out this cranberry orange glazed turkey recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If needed, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your cake doesn’t stick, line your baking pan with parchment paper before pouring in the batter
- Let it cool completely before frosting, as warm cake can melt your icing
- And always taste-test your frosting; it should be sweet but balanced!
I still remember the first time I made this Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake; my family devoured it and demanded I make it every holiday season, turning into our cherished tradition.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free flour for the Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake?
Yes, gluten-free flour works well; just ensure it’s a 1: 1 blend for best results.
How long does the Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake last?
It lasts up to five days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftover Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Celebrate the holiday season with this Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake, a stunning dessert that combines warm spices, rich chocolate, and luscious cream filling. Perfect for family gatherings, this cake is not only visually impressive but easy to make, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone. With its aromatic blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, each slice offers a taste of cozy winter evenings spent with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup dark molasses
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate (for ganache)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 15×10 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by molasses.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool slightly before rolling onto powdered sugar-dusted parchment paper.
- Whip heavy cream with sugar until soft peaks form; spread on cooled cake before rolling again.
- Prepare ganache by melting chocolate with cream; pour over the rolled cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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