For the Gingerbread Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or wreath-shaped cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the hot water, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until smooth.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before turning out onto a wire rack.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fluffy and spreadable.
Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Assembly:
Once the cake has cooled, spread a layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe rosettes of frosting along the edge of the cake.
Decorate the cake with cinnamon sticks, star anise, rosemary sprigs, and candied ginger for a festive, wintry touch.
Dust the cake lightly with ground cinnamon and powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Decoration Tips:
Natural Elements: Incorporate cinnamon sticks, star anise, and fresh rosemary for a rustic, holiday-inspired decoration that smells as good as it looks. These additions will elevate the natural spiced flavors of your cake.
Edible Garnishes: Candied ginger adds a lovely touch of sweetness and a pop of color. You can also use other dried fruit, like orange peel or cranberries, to complement the flavor.
Frosting Techniques: Create texture with piped rosettes using a star-shaped nozzle. This adds elegance and a professional look to your homemade cake.
Powdered Sugar & Cinnamon: Lightly dust the cake with powdered sugar and ground cinnamon to enhance the visual appeal and bring out the holiday spirit.
This gingerbread wreath cake will be the perfect showstopper for your holiday gatherings. Enjoy baking and decorating!