Sticky Jamaican Ginger Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake is loaded with spices and has a delightful sticky texture thanks to the addition of molasses and syrup. Topped with a sweet glaze, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons mixed spice (or pumpkin pie spice)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons molasses
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup chewy candied ginger, finely chopped
For the Glaze
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
For the Cake
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, mixed spice, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the molasses, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and milk together. Gradually add the slightly cooled molasses mixture, stirring continuously to combine.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the finely chopped candied ginger.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the corn syrup and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Glaze the Cake:
- While the cake is still warm, brush the glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Extra Spicy: For an extra kick, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Ginger Variation: If you can’t find candied ginger, you can use finely chopped crystallized ginger or even fresh ginger.
- Molasses Substitute: If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with dark corn syrup or a mixture of honey and dark corn syrup.
- Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. The flavors will deepen, and it will become even more moist and sticky.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help the cake hold together.
Q: How do I store the cake? A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use fresh ginger instead of candied ginger? A: Yes, you can use fresh ginger. However, the texture and sweetness will be different. Use about 2 tablespoons of finely grated fresh ginger.
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for the glaze? A: Yes, you can use granulated sugar or dark brown sugar for the glaze. The flavor will vary slightly depending on the type of sugar used.
Q: What is mixed spice, and can I make it at home? A: Mixed spice is a blend of spices commonly used in British baking, similar to pumpkin pie spice. You can make it at home by combining 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon ground allspice
Sticky Jamaican Ginger Cake is a delightful treat that combines rich, warm spices with a sticky, sweet texture. This cake is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just as a comforting dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Its deep, complex flavors and inviting aroma are sure to make it a favorite in your household. Happy baking!
Enjoy the comforting and spicy flavors of Sticky Jamaican Ginger Cake, a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its moist texture and sweet glaze, this cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Happy baking!
