Instructions

• Step 1: Prep for baking Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, then lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan, lining the bottom with wax paper.
• Step 2: Mix the oil, sugar and eggs Whisk together the oil, sugar, and molasses. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs with a fork, then whisk them into the molasses mixture until it's smooth.
• Step 3: Mix the flour and spices In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and spices. Then add the wet mixture, whisking until everything is completely combined.
• TIP: For a chocolaty touch, add 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa.
• Step 4: Add baking soda Stir the baking soda into a cup of just-boiled water and whisk it into the batter until just combined. Pour into the prepared pan and bake in the center of the oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Let cool.
• Step 5: Make the frosting To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until fluffy, gradually beating in the powdered sugar. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Step 6: Decorate Spread the frosting on the gingerbread and garnish with candied ginger. Enjoy your Christmas cake!
• TIP: Queen Elizabeth I honored guests of the court with gingerbread made in their likeness.

You Will Need

• 1 c. vegetable oil
• 1 c. sugar
• 1 c. dark molasses
• 2 large
• room temperature eggs
• 3 c. all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. ground ginger
• 2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
• 1 tbsp. baking soda
• 1 c. water
• 2 8-oz. packages cream cheese
• 1/2 c. butter
• 2 c. powdered sugar
• Candied ginger
• Equipment:
• Wax paper
• Electric mixer
• 1/4 c. unsweetened cocoa (optional)