How to make a Spiced Ginger Christmas Cake

A rich, aromatic Christmas cake infused with ginger, warm spices, and dark sugar. This version leans into stem ginger, treacle, and winter spice to create a moist, comforting bake that feels unmistakably festive — perfect for gifting, dessert tables, or cosy evenings by the tree.

Explore more festive bakes in Christmas Baking and Christmas Food.

⭐ Ingredients

200g unsalted butter, softened
180g dark brown sugar
3 tbsp stem ginger syrup
2 pieces stem ginger, finely chopped
3 large eggs
1 tbsp black treacle
220g self‑raising flour
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp mixed spice
½ tsp cinnamon
Zest of 1 orange
2 tbsp milk

Pick up stem ginger in syrup, a reliable non‑stick cake tin, and a hand mixer to make prep effortless.

⭐ Method

Cream the base: Beat the butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the stem ginger syrup, chopped ginger, and treacle, mixing until smooth. (A hand mixer makes this step quick.)
Add eggs and flavour: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold through the orange zest.
Combine dry ingredients: Sift the flour, ginger, mixed spice, and cinnamon. Gently fold into the wet mixture, adding milk to loosen the batter.
Bake to perfection: Pour into a lined non‑stick cake tin and bake at 170°C for 45–55 minutes until risen and springy.
Cool and glaze: Warm a little stem ginger syrup and brush over the warm cake for a glossy finish.
Decorate: Add candied ginger pieces, a dusting of icing sugar, or festive sprinkles from Christmas cake decorations.

⭐ Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with custard, or slice cold for a cosy afternoon treat. This cake pairs beautifully with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a festive tea blend.

Explore more ideas in Christmas Recipes.

⭐ Storage & Make‑Ahead

Keeps for 5 days in an airtight tin.
Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Ideal for gifting — wrap in parchment and festive ribbon.

This spiced ginger Christmas cake delivers everything you want from a festive bake — warmth, moisture, and a glossy ginger finish that feels unmistakably seasonal. A recipe worth repeating every year.