Name: Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup molasses; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like the warm and aromatic flavors of gingerbread! The Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake is a delightful twist on the traditional dessert. With its rich chocolate undertones, spiced with ginger and cinnamon, and a fluffy whipped cream filling, this festive cake will be a showstopper at any celebration. Whether it’s Christmas or a cozy winter gathering, this treat is bound to win hearts—and taste buds!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 250
Protein: 3g per serving
Carbohydrates: 38g per serving
Fat: 10g per serving
Fiber: 1g per serving
Sugar: 20g per serving
Sodium: 180mg per serving

Why Make This Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake

This Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake stands out not just for its festive appearance but also for its incredible flavor profile. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and ginger creates a nostalgic aroma that invokes the essence of holiday baking. The rich cocoa powder and molasses balance perfectly to give this cake a subtle chocolate richness, making it a delightful treat that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or serving at holiday parties, making memories one slice at a time.

How to Make Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake

## Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup molasses
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring a jelly roll pan will ensure that the cake doesn’t stick once baked.

Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients together helps evenly distribute the spices.

Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step introduces air, helping the cake rise beautifully. Add in the cocoa powder, molasses, and vegetable oil, mixing until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a light and fluffy batter.

Step 5: Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cooling the Cake

Once baked, carefully roll the cake in a damp kitchen towel while it’s still warm. Let it cool completely in the towel to maintain its shape.

Step 7: Whipping the Cream

For the filling, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This creamy filling adds a luscious texture and balances the spiced cake.

Step 8: Filling and Rolling

Unroll the cooled cake gently, spread the whipped cream evenly over the surface, and then re-roll it tightly. This will create a beautiful spiral effect.

Step 9: Decorating

Finally, decorate the log cake with icing or your favorite holiday-themed toppings and enjoy!

How to Serve Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake

Serve slices of the Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake on a festive platter or individual dessert plates. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra holiday touch. Enjoy it with a hot mug of spiced cider or eggnog for a truly festive experience.

How to Store Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake

To store, wrap the Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 3 days, but it can also be frozen for up to a month. To freeze, slice the cake, wrap each piece individually, and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake

Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to incorporate better.
Use a light hand when folding in the flour mixture to avoid a dense cake.
If you prefer a less sweet filling, use less powdered sugar in your whipped cream.
For a different flavor, try adding orange zest to the whipped cream for a citrus twist.
Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving for an added decorative touch.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate & Spice: Add a splash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Gingerbread: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Fruit-Filled: Add thin slices of poached pears or apples before rolling for a fruity surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. Consider mixing half whole wheat flour with half all-purpose for a healthier version.
What if I don’t have molasses?
You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but it will slightly alter the flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to fill and serve.
Is there a non-dairy option for the whipped cream?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or a whipped topping made from almond or soy milk as a great alternative.
How can I tell when the cake is finished baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

Conclusion

The Gingerbread Christmas Log Cake is more than just a beautiful dessert; it’s a holiday tradition that combines delicious flavors and nostalgic aromas. With its delightful spiced cake and creamy filling, this treat is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. Coming together in just under an hour, it’s a perfect recipe to share with friends and family, creating taste memories that last a lifetime. So, roll up your sleeves and give this festive delight a try—joyful baking awaits!