Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup hot water
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the molasses and beat until well combined.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the applesauce, and beat until just combined.
7. Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a rubber spatula.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 292
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 309mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar.
- Honey can be used instead of molasses.
- Hot apple cider can be used instead of hot water.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture.
- Top the cake with a cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
- Use pumpkin puree instead of applesauce for a fall twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to grease the baking pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the cake, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cake on a cake stand or platter and dust it with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
Garnishes:
Top the cake with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or fresh fruit for a festive touch.
Pairings:
Serve the cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of applesauce to the batter.
- If the cake is too moist, try reducing the amount of applesauce to 3/4 cup.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before preparing the cake. Store leftovers properly to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Gingerbread has been enjoyed for centuries, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the 15th century. Applesauce cake became popular in the United States during the Great Depression, when ingredients like butter and eggs were scarce.
Flavor profiles:
This cake has a warm and spicy flavor, with notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The applesauce adds a subtle sweetness and moist texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cake as a dessert or a sweet snack, with a cup of tea or coffee.
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