Description
Mary Berry’s Spiced Ginger Cake is a soft, moist, and slightly sticky loaf or traybake, infused with ground ginger, cinnamon, mixed spice, and golden syrup. It has a deep, warming flavor, making it perfect for autumn, winter, or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Plain Flour (225g) – Provides structure.
- Bicarbonate of Soda (1 tsp) – Helps with rise and texture.
- Ground Ginger (2 tsp) – The main spice for warmth.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and depth.
- Mixed Spice (½ tsp, optional) – Enhances the festive flavor.
- Butter (100g, unsalted, softened) – For richness.
- Dark Brown Sugar (100g) – Adds deep caramel flavor.
- Golden Syrup (175g) – Keeps the cake moist and sticky.
- Black Treacle or Molasses (50g, optional) – For extra richness.
- Milk (150ml, warm) – This creates a smooth batter.
- Egg (1 large, beaten) – Binds the ingredients together.
For the Optional Glaze:
- Icing Sugar (100g, sifted) – For a light, sweet glaze.
- Lemon Juice (2 tbsp) – Balances sweetness with tang.
Optional Additions:
- Stem Ginger (2 tbsp, finely chopped) – Adds extra spice and texture.
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (50g) – For a nutty crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Tin
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F) fan / 180°C (350°F) conventional.
- Line a 900g loaf tin or square baking tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, and mixed spice.
- Stir in the dark brown sugar to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Melt the Wet Ingredients
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the butter, golden syrup, and black treacle until melted and combined.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the flour mixture, stirring continuously.
- Add the melted syrup mixture and beaten egg, whisking until smooth.
- If using, fold in chopped stem ginger or nuts.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)
- Mix icing sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake for a tangy finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve with butter, cream, or a cup of tea.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
