If you're a fan of the holiday season, you know that gingerbread is a classic flavor. Gingerbread cake is the perfect dessert to indulge in during the festive season. With 213 calories per 1 piece (1/10 8" Dia) serving, it's both delicious and indulgent. So, let's take a look at everything you need to know to enjoy this dessert to the fullest.
First, let's take a look at the ingredients. To make gingerbread cake, you'll need flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, molasses, and unsalted butter. You can also add raisins or chopped nuts if you'd like to give it a little extra something.
In this article, we'll explore everything from the nutritional value of gingerbread cake to different variations of the recipe. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, we've got all the tips and tricks you need to bake the perfect gingerbread cake.
As mentioned earlier, 1 piece (1/10 8" Dia) of gingerbread cake without icing contains approximately 213 calories. This is a relatively high calorie count, so it's important to watch your portion sizes when enjoying this dessert. However, it's also important to remember that indulging in your favorite treats in moderation is key to a healthy and balanced diet.
Ingredients
To make gingerbread cake, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Eggs
- Baking soda
- Ground ginger
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground cloves
- Salt
- Molasses
- Unsalted butter
You can also add raisins or chopped nuts if you'd like to add some extra texture and flavor to your gingerbread cake.
Nutritional Value
In addition to containing 213 calories per 1 piece serving, gingerbread cake also provides some key nutrients. It contains dietary fiber, calcium, iron, and potassium. However, it's important to note that gingerbread cake is also relatively high in sugar and fat.
How to Make Gingerbread Cake
To make gingerbread cake, follow these easy steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8-inch square cake pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the molasses and melted butter. Add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Gingerbread Cake Variations
There are many ways to change up the flavor of gingerbread cake. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for some extra texture.
- Add orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla frosting for a sweeter dessert.
Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite variation of gingerbread cake.
Serving Suggestions
Gingerbread cake is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to serve it that can take it to the next level. Here are a few suggestions:
- Top with whipped cream or vanilla frosting.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
No matter how you choose to serve it, gingerbread cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Tips
To keep your gingerbread cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you'd like to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits of Gingerbread Cake
While gingerbread cake is certainly not the healthiest dessert option, it does provide some health benefits. Ginger, one of the key ingredients in gingerbread, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the dietary fiber in gingerbread cake can help promote digestive health.
Low-Calorie Gingerbread Cake Recipes
If you're watching your calorie intake, you don't have to miss out on gingerbread cake. Here are a few low-calorie recipes to try:
- Low-Calorie Gingerbread Cake from EatingWell
- Healthy Gingerbread Cake from The Healthy Maven
- Low-Fat Gingerbread from Skinnytaste
These recipes are all under 200
calories per serving and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Gingerbread Cake FAQs
Here are some common questions and concerns about gingerbread cake:
- Q: Can I freeze gingerbread cake?
- A: Yes, gingerbread cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Q: Can I make gingerbread cake ahead of time?
- A: Yes, gingerbread cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Q: Can I make gingerbread cake without eggs?
- A: Yes, there are many egg substitutes you can use in gingerbread cake, such as applesauce, banana, or flaxseed meal.
If you have any other questions or concerns about gingerbread cake, feel free to consult your favorite recipe book or do a quick online search for answers.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Cake Without Icing
1. What are the ingredients in gingerbread cake without icing?
Gingerbread cake typically contains flour, brown sugar or molasses, spices (such as ginger, cinnamon, and cloves), eggs, butter, and milk or water. This recipe does not include icing, which often contains powdered sugar and other ingredients.
2. How many calories are in one piece of gingerbread cake without icing?
One piece of gingerbread cake without icing (1/10 of an 8" diameter cake) contains 213 calories.
3. Is gingerbread cake without icing a healthy dessert option?
While gingerbread cake without icing can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, it is not considered a particularly healthy dessert. It is high in calories, sugar, and fat, and relatively low in nutrients like fiber and protein. Moderation is key when indulging in sweets like gingerbread cake.
4. Can gingerbread cake without icing be made gluten-free?
Yes, it is possible to make gluten-free gingerbread cake by using gluten-free flour. There are many gluten-free flour options available, including rice flour, almond flour, and coconut flour.
5. Can gingerbread cake without icing be frozen?
Yes, gingerbread cake without icing can be frozen. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature for several hours before serving.