Gingerbread Bundt Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to make an unforgettable holiday centerpiece, the Gingerbread Bundt Cake should be at the very top of your list. This heavenly cake takes all the nostalgic flavors of classic gingerbread, then takes things to the next level with layers of spiced cake, whimsical gingerbread men hidden throughout, and a delightful drizzle of maple icing. Every bite is a celebration of warm spices, deep molasses, and buttery crumb — all bundled up in a truly show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, this Gingerbread Bundt Cake will bring pure joy to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make this cake shine, just pantry staples that each bring their own magic. Each ingredient is absolutely key — from rich molasses delivering that unmistakable holiday flavor to a duo of sugars creating a tender, moist crumb. Here’s exactly what goes into your Gingerbread Bundt Cake, with tips for best results:

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to both the gingerbread and spiced cakes.
• Unsalted butter: Room temperature butter ensures your cakes have a soft, dreamy texture.
• Eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness; make sure they’re at room temp for the fluffiest cakes.
• Molasses: The star of any gingerbread dessert, adding deep caramel notes and signature dark color.
• Salt: Enhances all those wonderful spice flavors, giving balance and depth.
• Cinnamon: Warm, sweet spice that perfumes the entire cake with holiday coziness.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for each layer; be sure to measure accurately for perfect crumb.
• Baking soda & Baking powder: A combo for just the right rise and tenderness — don’t skip either!
• Ginger (ground): Puts the “zing” in gingerbread with bright warmth.
• Ground cloves: Just a bit for intense depth and complexity; optional but so worth it!
• Very hot water: Loosens the gingerbread batter for that classic soft and springy texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds extra moisture and that irresistible butterscotch undertone to the spiced cake.
• Whole milk: Helps everything blend smoothly and stay extra moist.
• Nutmeg & Allspice (optional): For those who like a bolder spice profile. Adjust to your liking!
• Powdered sugar: The base for that delightful maple icing drizzle.
• Maple syrup: Brings a touch of earthy sweetness to the icing — pure magic with the spices.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and makes the glaze extra fragrant.
• Milk (for icing): Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Gingerbread Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Gingerbread Cake

Start with preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and greasing two 9×5 loaf pans, lining them with parchment for easy release. In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients — flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt — to ensure spices are distributed evenly. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in an egg and molasses for that unmistakable gingerbread flavor. Gently incorporate your dry mix, then slowly pour in the hot water, stirring until the batter becomes smooth (don’t worry, it’s supposed to be thin!). Pour this batter evenly into your pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean — about 23–25 minutes. Cool briefly in the pans, then fully on a rack before moving on.

Step 2: Cut Out Gingerbread Men

Once your loaf cakes have cooled, slice each in half lengthwise using a serrated knife. Now comes the fun: grab your favorite gingerbread man cookie cutter and cut out as many gingerbread men as you can from the four planks of cake (aim for about 32 in total). These little guys will form the whimsical heart of your Gingerbread Bundt Cake, and reveal a delightful surprise with every slice!

Step 3: Make Spiced Bundt Cake Batter

Butter and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan extra generously to prevent sticking. Sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a bowl to distribute those cozy spices perfectly. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and both brown and granulated sugars together until fluffy. Slowly add your beaten eggs, mixing well after each addition. Alternate adding the milk and the dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth between additions. This alternating helps create an ultra-tender crumb.

Step 4: Assemble the Bundt Cake

Spoon two cups of the spiced batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Arrange your gingerbread men upside-down (head first) in a ring, pressing them gently into the batter by about half an inch and making sure they are touching and go all the way around the pan. Pour the remaining spiced batter carefully over the top, covering the gingerbread men completely. Tap the pan on the counter to settle the batter and bust any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Slide your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 44–52 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top springs back gently and a toothpick comes out clean or with just a crumb or two. Let the cake cool in the pan on a rack for about 30 minutes (patience is key!), then invert it onto the rack to finish cooling completely. This keeps the gingerbread men in perfect shape for the big reveal.

Step 6: Whip Up the Maple Icing

Sift powdered sugar into a bowl to remove lumps, then whisk in maple syrup, vanilla, and milk (add the milk gradually) to your preferred thickness. The goal is a pourable glaze that ribbons off the spoon. Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle it generously over the top, letting it pool in all the nooks and crannies for maximum effect.

How to Serve Gingerbread Bundt Cake

Garnishes

To truly make your Gingerbread Bundt Cake shine, finish it off with festive garnishes! Try a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy look, a sprinkle of crystallized ginger for a spicy punch, or scatter some sugared cranberries or chopped toasted pecans around the serving plate. And don’t forget those beautiful maple icing drips — let them steal the show!

Side Dishes

Pairing is all about comfort here. Serve your cake alongside steaming mugs of coffee, chai, or mulled wine, which all highlight the spice. For an extra decadent treat, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream ups the cozy factor instantly. Fresh fruit like poached pears or orange slices also add brightness to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Go playful and tuck a few extra gingerbread men around the cake for a storybook effect, or tie a big red ribbon around the base for a gift-like presentation. Serving each slice on a dark plate really makes the spiced crumb and surprise gingerbread men pop. For parties, slice pieces slightly thicker so every guest gets a perfect gingerbread man in their portion!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gingerbread Bundt Cake will stay deliciously moist for three to four days if covered tightly at room temperature. Just be sure to keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources to retain that tender texture and keep the icing from melting. If your kitchen is on the warmer side, pop the cake in the fridge to keep it fresh even longer.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap each piece (or the entire cake) tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Stash it in the freezer for up to three months. When cravings hit, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature before serving — the flavors will be just as festive as day one!

Reheating

If you love a warm slice, microwave individual servings for 10 to 20 seconds just until lightly heated through. Alternatively, wrap slices in foil and pop into a low oven for a few minutes. Be gentle so the icing doesn’t over-melt and you still get that moist, fluffy crumb with the perfectly gooey glaze!

FAQs

Can I make the Gingerbread Bundt Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake actually develops even more flavor after sitting for a day. You can bake it up to two days in advance, wrap it well, and ice it just before serving for maximum wow factor.

What if I don’t have a gingerbread man cookie cutter?

No worries! You can use any small cookie cutter or even cut rectangles for a modern twist. The fun surprise inside still works — and guests will absolutely love it.

How can I make the Gingerbread Bundt Cake dairy-free?

Swap in your favorite plant-based butter and nondairy milk for both cake and icing. Ensure your substitutions are unsweetened to maintain the perfect balance of flavors, and your cake will still be deliciously rich and festive!

Why do I need to alternate adding milk and dry ingredients to the spiced cake batter?

Alternating keeps the batter from curdling and helps create a more even, tender crumb. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in the final cake’s texture, so don’t rush it!

How do I keep the gingerbread men from breaking when assembling?

Be gentle when cutting and handling your gingerbread men, and don’t skimp on cooling time. Carefully support each piece as you arrange them in the pan — a thin offset spatula helps! Once baked and sliced, you’ll be rewarded with pristine shapes in every piece.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about slicing into a Gingerbread Bundt Cake and revealing those gingerbread men tucked inside. Whether for a holiday crowd or a just-because celebration, this cake never fails to bring wide-eyed smiles. So don’t wait for a special occasion — treat yourself and the people you love to this delightful, spiced surprise!

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