Name: Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 16
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup dark brown sugar; ½ cup molasses; 1 tsp vanilla; 2 eggs; 1 cup flour; 1 cup whole wheat flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 2 tsp Cinnamon; 2 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cloves; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup low-fat buttermilk; For Crumb Topping:; ⅔ cup dark brown sugar; ¾ tsp ground cinnamon; ⅛ tsp salt; 8 tbsp butter; 1¾ cups cake flour

This gingerbread crumb cake brings together the warm, spicy flavors of traditional gingerbread with a delightful crumb topping. Perfect for winter months, this cake is both comforting and festive. Its moist texture and aromatic spices make it a must-try for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Photos of Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every home. Molasses adds a rich, deep sweetness unique to gingerbread and can usually be found in the baking aisle. Whole wheat flour offers a denser texture and is also typically available in the baking section. Cake flour is a finely milled flour that gives the crumb topping its delicate texture; look for it near the all-purpose flour.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to the cake and crumb topping.

Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth with its molasses content.

Molasses: A thick, dark syrup that gives gingerbread its signature flavor.

Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.

Flour: The base for the cake, providing structure.

Whole wheat flour: Adds a denser texture and a slight nutty flavor.

Baking soda: Helps the cake rise.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor.

Ground ginger: Provides a zesty, sharp flavor typical of gingerbread.

Ground cloves: Gives a strong, aromatic spice kick.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Low-fat buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake.

Cake flour: Used in the crumb topping to give it a delicate texture.

One reader, Kelcy Sam says:

This gingerbread crumb cake is a holiday delight! The spices blend perfectly, and the crumb topping adds a wonderful texture. It's moist, flavorful, and easy to make. A new favorite in our household!

Kelcy Sam

Baking Techniques for Perfect Gingerbread Crumb Cake

How to cream butter and sugar: Creaming involves beating the butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps to create a light and tender cake.

How to sift dry ingredients: Sifting involves passing dry ingredients through a fine mesh sieve to remove lumps and aerate the mixture. This ensures even distribution of ingredients and helps to create a lighter texture in the final product.

How to alternate adding dry and wet ingredients: When a recipe calls for alternating dry and wet ingredients, it means you should add a portion of the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add a portion of the wet ingredients, mix again, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated. This technique helps to prevent overmixing and ensures a smooth batter.

How to break apart dough into chunks: This involves taking the prepared dough and breaking it into small, marble-sized pieces to be distributed evenly over the cake batter. This creates a crumbly topping once baked.

How To Make Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Serve up some warm holiday flavors in your dessert with this gingerbread crumb cake recipe. The cake is rich in molasses & ginger & the crumble is buttery.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupunsalted butter,softened
½cupdark brown sugar,packed
½cupmolasses
1tspvanilla
2eggs,large
1cupflour
1cupwhole wheat flour
1tspbaking soda
2tspcinnamon
2tspground ginger
1tspground cloves
½tspsalt
1cuplow-fat buttermilk

For Crumb Topping:

⅔cupdark brown sugar,packed
¾tspground cinnamon
⅛tspsalt
8tbspbutter,melted
1¾cupscake flour

Instructions

Add brown sugar, cinnamon, salt and butter into a bowl.
Whisk together and add in cake flour until combined.
Form into a dough ball. Let sit until the cake is done.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with baking spray.
In a stand mixer, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add in the molasses and eggs until combined.
Sift together whole wheat flour, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt.
Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating half and half to the stand mixture on the lowest speed until just combined.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish pan and spread evenly.
Take the topping dough and break apart into chunks about the size of marbles over the cake batter in a uniform pattern.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted and comes out clean.

Nutrition

Calories: 297.45kcal
Fat: 12.59g
Saturated Fat: 7.62g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.73g
Carbohydrates: 42.71g
Fiber: 1.58g
Sugar: 19.04g
Protein: 4.39g
Cholesterol: 51.12mg
Sodium: 203.79mg
Calcium: 66.00mg
Potassium: 260.14mg
Iron: 2.23mg
Vitamin A: 107.91µg
Vitamin C: 0.17mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Gingerbread Crumb Cake Success

When making the crumb topping, ensure the butter is cold and cut into small pieces before mixing with the dry ingredients. This helps create a crumbly texture rather than a smooth dough, which is ideal for a crumb cake.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and sift all dry ingredients and wet ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the crumb topping ingredients in a food processor to save time.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing to avoid waiting later.

Uniform shape: Use a cookie scoop to evenly distribute the crumb topping for a consistent bake.

Substitute Ingredients For Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, with a slight coconut flavor that complements the spices.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
molasses - Substitute with honey: Honey provides sweetness and moisture, though it will have a lighter flavor than molasses.
vanilla - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: For those with gluten intolerance, this provides a similar texture.
whole wheat flour - Substitute with spelt flour: Spelt flour has a similar nutritional profile and texture.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, but reduce the acidic ingredients slightly.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice provides a similar warm, spicy flavor.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Use 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for every teaspoon of ground ginger.
ground cloves - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements the other spices.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides the same salty flavor with potentially more minerals.
low-fat buttermilk - Substitute with almond milk with lemon juice: Mix 1 cup of almond milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to mimic the acidity and moisture of buttermilk.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar depth of flavor and sweetness.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon and other complementary spices.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar flavor but is less dense, so use slightly more.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine provides a similar fat content and texture.
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: Use slightly less all-purpose flour and sift it to mimic the light texture of cake flour.

Presentation Ideas for Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the gingerbread crumb cake into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure a refined presentation.
Use decoration: Dust the top of each piece with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance and contrast.
Add a sauce: Drizzle a thin line of vanilla bean glaze or caramel sauce on the plate to complement the flavors of the cake.
Garnish with fresh elements: Place a small sprig of fresh mint or a few red currants beside each piece to add color and freshness.
Use high-quality plating: Serve the cake on a pristine, white porcelain plate to highlight the rich, dark tones of the gingerbread.
Incorporate texture: Add a small dollop of whipped cream or a quenelle of mascarpone cheese on the side to provide a creamy contrast to the crumbly cake.
Create height: Stack two small pieces of the gingerbread crumb cake slightly offset from each other to add visual interest and dimension.
Add a touch of luxury: Garnish with a few edible gold leaf flakes to elevate the dish to a Michelin-star level.
Balance the plate: Ensure that each element on the plate is balanced, with the gingerbread crumb cake as the focal point, and the garnishes and sauces enhancing but not overpowering it.
Highlight the crumb topping: Make sure the crumb topping is prominently displayed on top of each piece, showcasing its texture and adding visual appeal.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crumb Cake

Stand mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, and for mixing in the molasses and eggs.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter for the crumb topping.
Whisk: Needed to whisk together the crumb topping ingredients before adding the cake flour.
Sifter: Important for sifting together the whole wheat flour, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt to ensure even distribution and to remove any lumps.
Baking spray: Used to coat the 9x13-inch baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
9x13-inch baking pan: The pan where the cake batter will be poured and baked.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring both wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and spreading the cake batter evenly in the baking pan.
Knife: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F, where the cake will be baked for 35 to 40 minutes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Allow the gingerbread crumb cake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored properly at room temperature.
If you want to store the cake in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. The cake will stay fresh for up to a week when stored in the refrigerator. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
To freeze the gingerbread crumb cake, follow these steps:
1. Cut the cake into individual portions or leave it whole, depending on your preference.
2. Wrap each portion or the whole cake tightly with plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
3. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling it with the date and contents.
4. Freeze the cake for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw the frozen gingerbread crumb cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, allow the cake to come to room temperature before unwrapping and serving.
If you prefer a slightly warm cake, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes.

How To Reheat Leftover Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover gingerbread crumb cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the crumb topping is crispy. This method is best for larger pieces of cake and helps maintain the cake's moisture while reheating.
For smaller pieces or individual slices, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the gingerbread crumb cake slice on a small baking sheet or aluminum foil. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and the crumb topping is crispy.
If you're in a hurry, you can use a microwave to reheat your leftover gingerbread crumb cake. Place a single slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the cake isn't warm enough, heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
For a crispy crumb topping and a moist cake, use a combination of the microwave and oven methods. First, microwave the gingerbread crumb cake for 15-20 seconds to warm it up. Then, place the cake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the crumb topping is crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover gingerbread crumb cake. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cake slice in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cake is warmed through and the crumb topping is crispy.

Is Making Gingerbread Crumb Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this gingerbread crumb cake recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The ingredients, including dark brown sugar, molasses, and whole wheat flour, are relatively affordable and commonly found in most households. The use of buttermilk and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves adds a rich flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD, making it a budget-friendly option for a delightful dessert.

Is Gingerbread Crumb Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This gingerbread crumb cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of butter and dark brown sugar, which are high in saturated fat and added sugars, respectively. These ingredients can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and other health issues if consumed in excess.
The use of molasses and whole wheat flour does provide some nutrients, such as iron and fiber, but the overall nutritional value is overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients.
The crumb topping, while irresistibly tasty, adds an extra layer of butter, sugar, and refined flour to the already indulgent cake.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter in both the cake and crumb topping, or replace some of it with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, applesauce, or mashed avocado
Swap out a portion of the dark brown sugar with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or date paste, which offer some additional nutrients and antioxidants
Increase the proportion of whole wheat flour to all-purpose flour, or experiment with other nutrient-dense flours like oat, almond, or coconut flour
Add in some grated zucchini, carrots, or apples to the batter for an extra boost of fiber, vitamins, and moisture without relying on fat
Reduce the amount of crumb topping or replace some of the flour with rolled oats for a more wholesome texture

Editor's Opinion on This Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe

This gingerbread crumb cake recipe offers a delightful blend of warm spices and rich molasses, creating a comforting and festive treat. The use of both whole wheat and all-purpose flour adds a pleasant texture, while the buttermilk ensures a moist crumb. The crumb topping, with its buttery and cinnamon-infused notes, provides a perfect contrast to the spiced cake. However, consider chilling the crumb topping dough for easier handling. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table, balancing traditional flavors with a modern twist.

Enhance Your Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Spiced Apple Compote: Spiced Apple Compote: Imagine the warm, aromatic embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling with tender, caramelized apples. This delightful compote adds a burst of fruity sweetness that perfectly complements the rich, spiced notes of the gingerbread crumb cake.

Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream: Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream: Light, airy, and infused with the delicate essence of vanilla bean, this whipped cream is the ultimate cloud-like topping. It adds a creamy contrast to the dense, flavorful layers of the cake, making each bite a heavenly experience.

Cranberry Orange Relish: Cranberry Orange Relish: Tart cranberries and zesty oranges come together in a vibrant, refreshing relish. This side dish not only adds a pop of color but also a tangy twist that cuts through the richness of the gingerbread crumb cake, creating a balanced flavor profile.

Maple Glazed Pecans: Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy pecans coated in a luscious maple syrup glaze bring a delightful textural contrast to the soft, moist cake. The nutty, sweet flavors enhance the spiced undertones, making each bite a symphony of tastes and textures.

Caramelized Pears: Caramelized Pears: Slices of pears gently caramelized in brown sugar and butter create a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth side. The natural sweetness and subtle spice of the pears harmonize beautifully with the gingerbread crumb cake, elevating the dessert to new heights.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Spiced Apple Crumb Cake: Dive into the cozy flavors of fall with this dessert. The apples add a delightful sweetness, while the crumb topping provides a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a dessert table or a special breakfast treat.

Pumpkin Streusel Coffee Cake: This dessert combines the warm spices of pumpkin with a buttery streusel topping. It's an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon snack. The moist cake and crunchy topping make it irresistible.

Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake: A classic dessert that never goes out of style. The rich cinnamon swirl running through the cake adds a burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with a simple glaze, it's perfect for any occasion.

Blueberry Crumb Cake: Bursting with juicy blueberries, this dessert is a delightful mix of sweet and tart. The crumb topping adds a lovely texture, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch.

Lemon Poppy Seed Coffee Cake: Bright and zesty, this dessert features the refreshing flavor of lemon combined with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. The crumb topping adds a delightful contrast, making it a perfect choice for any gathering.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Complement Gingerbread Crumb Cake

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Begin by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a savory filling with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of parmesan for a nutty flavor. Stuff the mushroom caps generously and bake until golden brown. The result is a creamy, flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an aromatic base. Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates a refreshing and vibrant appetizer that sets the tone for a delightful meal.

Main Courses:

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb: Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb is a showstopper that combines the rich flavors of fresh herbs and succulent lamb. The rack of lamb is coated with a mixture of rosemary, thyme, and parsley, creating a fragrant crust that locks in the juices. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables and a red wine reduction for an elegant meal. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and colorful main course that can be tailored to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables. The filling is seasoned with garlic, onions, and tomato sauce, then topped with melted cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling. This dish is both hearty and nutritious, making it a family favorite.

Why trust this Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe:

This gingerbread crumb cake recipe combines the rich flavors of molasses and dark brown sugar with a perfectly spiced blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The crumb topping adds a delightful texture that complements the moist cake. Using whole wheat flour and low-fat buttermilk makes it a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delicious treat every time.

Share your thoughts on the Gingerbread Crumb Cake Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use regular milk instead of low-fat buttermilk?

I wouldn't recommend it because buttermilk adds a unique tang and helps with the cake's texture. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste great.

How do I store the gingerbread crumb cake?

I usually store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the crumb topping?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, can add a nice touch to the crumb topping. Just mix them in with the dough before breaking it into chunks.

What can I use instead of molasses?

If you don't have molasses, you can use dark corn syrup, honey, or maple syrup as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.