Introduction
The Maple-Gingerbread Layer Cake with Salted Maple-Caramel Sauce stands out as a unique fusion of classic gingerbread and the rich, sweet flavors of maple. This recipe captures traditional winter holiday spirit in every bite, combining time-honored techniques with contemporary taste preferences for a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Tips for this Recipe
To ensure the best results, preheat your oven and prepare all ingredients before starting to mix. For an even bake, rotate the cake halfway through cooking if necessary. Keep a close eye on your maple-caramel sauce as it can thicken quickly once removed from heat.
Why you will love this recipe
This Maple-Gingerbread Layer Cake is not just about the layers of flavor that dance on your palate; it’s also about tradition and festivity. The salted maple caramel sauce complements the spices beautifully, making every forkful a celebration of seasonal indulgence and holiday cheer.
Ingredients
3/4 cup pecan halves, toasted
1/4 cup pure maple syrup (preferably Grade B)
Coarse kosher salt
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
1/3 cup chopped crystallized ginger (1 1/2 to 2 ounces)
1 cup maple sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 large eggs
3/4 cup hot water
2/3 cup mild-flavored (light) molasses
1 1/3 cups chilled crème fraîche
1 1/3 cups chilled heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup maple sugar
6 tablespoons powdered sugar
Salted Maple-Caramel Sauce
Ingredient info: Chinese five-spice powder-a spice blend that usually contains ground fennel seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, cinnamon, star anise, and cloves-is available in the spice section of most supermarkets. Crème fraîche is sold at most supermarkets and at specialty foods stores.
Adviced Equipments
Stand Mixer – KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Speed Stand Mixer
Electric Cake Leveller – Wilton Professional Quarter Round Bottom and Top Cake Leveler
Nonstick Baking Silicone Spatula
Digital Scale – OXO Good Grips 5-pound Digital Kitchen Scale
Rotating Cake Stand – AmazonBasics Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Rotary Cake Stand
History of the Recipe
The tradition of gingerbread dates back to ancient civilizations, with variations seen across cultures. This Maple-Gingerbread Layer Cake brings a unique twist by infusing the robust flavors of maple into a classic recipe. While individual components like crystallized ginger have roots in traditional baking practices, it’s this innovative blend that has modernized and elevated the dessert to its current form.
Fun Facts about this Recipe
The incorporation of Chinese five-spice powder is a nod to cross-cultural influences, adding depth to the gingerbread layers. Similarly, the salted maple caramel sauce showcases how traditional ingredients can be reimagined, infusing new life into old favorites while paying homage to their roots in American culinary history.
