There’s something truly comforting about a warm slice of coffee cake, especially when it’s infused with the spicy sweetness of ginger. Our Ginger Coffee Cake recipe brings together the perfect balance of cozy flavors and tender crumb, making it an ideal treat for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
This cake combines the zing of fresh ginger with a hint of cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving it with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking rotation. Let’s dive into making a ginger coffee cake that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to whip up anytime.
Ingredients
To create our Ginger Coffee Cake with the perfect balance of warmth and spice, we carefully select ingredients that bring out its moist texture and rich flavor. Below are the categorized essentials for this delightful recipe.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Spice Mix
This spice mix adds a warm and spicy zing essential to the cake’s signature flavor:
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground ginger | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cloves | ¼ teaspoon |
We mix these spices together to infuse our Ginger Coffee Cake with aromatic complexity that complements both the coffee notes and subtle sweetness perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To create our delicious Ginger Coffee Cake, having the right equipment is essential for smooth preparation and perfect results. Here is a detailed list of the tools we use throughout the baking process:
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two; one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients for easy and organized mixing.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Ensures the butter and sugar are creamed to a light, fluffy consistency, which is vital for a tender cake crumb.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of spices like ground ginger and cinnamon ensures that the flavor profile is perfectly balanced.
- Whisk: For blending the dry ingredients and gently incorporating sour cream into the wet mixture.
- Rubber Spatula: Helps scrape down bowl sides to incorporate all ingredients without loss.
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This size fits the batter perfectly and evenly cooks the coffee cake to moist perfection.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool uniformly once removed from the oven, avoiding moisture buildup at the bottom.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separating dry and wet ingredients | Minimum two; glass or metal preferred |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | Creaming butter and sugar | Speeds up mixing; optional whisk attachment |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Essential for consistent flavor |
| Whisk | Blending dry components | Keeps spices evenly distributed |
| Rubber Spatula | Scraping bowl sides | Ensures full ingredient incorporation |
| 9×13-inch Baking Pan | Baking the cake | Non-stick or greased for easy release |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling after baking | Prevents sogginess by air circulation |
Tip: Preheat the oven before assembling your batter to maintain temperature accuracy and ensure even rising.
By preparing these tools ahead of time, we streamline the baking process and guarantee our Ginger Coffee Cake delivers that irresistible warm spice aroma and tender texture every time.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Ginger Coffee Cake that bursts with warm spices and moist texture. Each stage is designed to maximize flavor and streamline your baking experience.
Prep Work
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking from the start.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray; lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Measure and sift the dry ingredients (all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger) into one bowl to avoid lumps.
- Soften unsalted butter at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Gather all tools: mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring spoons, whisk, rubber spatula, and cooling rack for seamless workflow.
Making the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in sour cream and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Preparing the Ginger Topping
- In a small bowl, combine:
- Brown sugar
- Ground ginger
- Ground cinnamon
- Sprinkle this aromatic topping evenly over the batter in the baking pan.
- Optionally, add chopped crystallized ginger pieces on top for extra texture and zing.
Baking the Cake
- Place the prepared pan in the preheated oven on the middle rack.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Avoid opening the oven door frequently to maintain consistent temperature and proper rising.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Doneness Check |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 35–40 mins | Toothpick comes out clean |
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the cake from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack.
- Allow the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps set the texture.
- Serve warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea to enjoy the full spice aroma and moist crumb.
- Optionally, dust powdered sugar or spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for added indulgence.
Storage Tips
To keep our Ginger Coffee Cake fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to maintain its moistness and rich flavor:
1. Cooling Completely
Allow the cake to cool completely on the wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation that can make the cake soggy.
2. Room Temperature Storage
- Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
- Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources to preserve texture and flavor.
3. Refrigeration
- If you plan to keep the cake longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container.
- Refrigeration extends freshness up to 5 days.
- Before serving, bring the cake to room temperature or warm it slightly to revive its tender crumb.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently before serving.
| Storage Method | Packaging Needed | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Plastic wrap or airtight container | Up to 2 days | Keep away from heat and sunlight |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Plastic wrap + foil + freezer bag | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight, warm slightly |
“Proper storage preserves the delicate balance of warm spices and moisture in our Ginger Coffee Cake, ensuring every bite tastes freshly baked.”
By following these Storage Tips we guarantee our Ginger Coffee Cake maintains its moist texture and rich ginger flavor long after baking.
Conclusion
This Ginger Coffee Cake is a delightful way to bring warmth and spice into your kitchen. Its blend of aromatic spices and moist texture makes it a versatile treat for any time of day.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe we’re confident will become a staple in your baking routine. Whether shared with family or enjoyed solo, it’s sure to satisfy those cozy cravings.
Don’t forget to store it properly to keep every slice tasting fresh and flavorful. We can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Ginger Coffee Cake different from regular coffee cake?
This cake combines the classic coffee cake texture with the warm, spicy sweetness of fresh and ground ginger, along with cinnamon and brown sugar, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both cozy and flavorful.
What are the key ingredients needed for the Ginger Coffee Cake?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, softened butter, granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and a special spice mix including nutmeg and cloves.
What equipment is essential to bake this cake successfully?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric or stand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, rubber spatula, a 9×13-inch baking pan, and a cooling rack.
How long should I bake the Ginger Coffee Cake?
Bake it for 35-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Can I add toppings to the cake?
Yes, a ginger topping made from brown sugar, ground ginger, and cinnamon is suggested. You can also add chopped crystallized ginger for texture or dust with powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting.
How should I store the cake to keep it fresh?
Cool completely, then wrap tightly. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months.
Is this cake suitable for breakfast or just as a snack?
It’s perfect for both breakfast and an afternoon snack, pairing well with coffee or tea thanks to its warm, comforting flavors.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the batter and bake immediately for optimal rise and texture, but you can refrigerate the batter briefly if needed before baking.
Does the recipe require fresh ginger or can I use ground ginger only?
The recipe uses both fresh and ground ginger to maximize flavor depth, but if needed, ground ginger alone can be used, though fresh ginger adds a brighter spice.
What is the best way to serve the Ginger Coffee Cake?
Serve warm or at room temperature, with optional powdered sugar dusting or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence. It pairs wonderfully with hot coffee or tea.