Description

Rich, warmly spiced, and unbelievably moist, this Best Molasses Cake brings deep caramel flavor and a soft, tender crumb that only gets better with time. Perfect for holidays or cozy evenings with tea, it’s a vintage classic made easy for the modern baker.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
¾ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
1 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 cup buttermilk (or ½ cup sour cream + ½ cup milk)
¾ cup dark unsulphured molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square pan or line with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
In a separate large bowl, mix oil, brown sugar, egg, buttermilk, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined—don’t overmix.
Pour batter into the pan and smooth evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool for 15 minutes in the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use dark molasses for best depth. Add a bit of coffee for extra richness, or top with lemon glaze or whipped cream for serving. Stores beautifully and gets better with time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American