10 Old-Fashioned Desserts to Try from Grandma's Recipe Box

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Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread cake has been a generations-old favorite, bringing warmth to kitchens with its bold molasses flavor and fragrant blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. A staple during winter months, it’s a nostalgic reminder of homey, old-fashioned baking at its best. With its soft, moist crumb and a flavor that perfectly balances sweetness with spice, this cake is a beloved holiday classic—but just as delightful any time of year. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet satisfying dessert.

Ingredients (for 9 servings):

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8-inch baking pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and molasses until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with hot water, until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 30-35 min. or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.