If you’re looking for a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Ginger Recipe is exactly what you need. Moist and tender, packed with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, and brightened with fresh orange juice and zest, it perfectly balances zesty, sweet, and spicy flavors. Topped with luxuriously fluffy cream cheese frosting and studded with piquant candied ginger, this loaf transforms any ordinary moment into a festive delight. Get ready to fill your kitchen with incredible aromas and enjoy a slice (or two) of pure comfort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with a yellow liquid mixture inside is set on a white marbled surface. On top of the yellow mixture, there is a mound of white flour, ready to be mixed. A metal whisk with silver wires rests diagonally in the bowl, touching both the flour and the yellow liquid. At the bottom right of the image, another clear glass bowl filled with white flour is partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Ginger Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create its rich depth of flavor and irresistible texture. Each ingredient plays its part—from the warm spices that give this loaf its signature taste to the applesauce that keeps it incredibly moist.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the loaf, giving structure and lightness.
Baking soda: Helps the loaf rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice and cozy aroma.
Ground cloves: Offers a subtle spicy depth without overpowering.
Ground ginger: The star spice that gives this loaf its distinct kick.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
White sugar: Sweetens while aiding browning and tenderness.
Unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the loaf moist and adds natural sweetness.
Vegetable oil: Contributes to moist texture and softness.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet, fragrant note.
Orange zest: Brings fresh citrus brightness that lifts the spices.
Fresh orange juice: Adds juice and moistness with a mild tang.
Powdered sugar (for frosting): Creates a creamy, smooth sweetness perfect for frosting.
Cream cheese: Forms the tangy richness in the frosting.
Heavy cream: Gives the frosting a luscious, spreadable texture.
Candied ginger (for garnish): Adds chewiness and bursts of spicy sweetness.
Dried cranberries (optional): For an additional tart pop of flavor and festive color.

How to Make Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Ginger Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the lower third. This ensures even baking with a nice golden crust and fully cooked center. Lightly grease your 9 × 5-inch loaf pan with a nonstick spray, so the loaf pops out easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, cloves, and ground ginger. Sifting helps incorporate air and evenly distributes the spices, which is key for that consistent gingerbread flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, white sugar, applesauce, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, fresh orange zest, and orange juice until smooth and glossy. This mixture is the flavor powerhouse, bringing moisture, sweetness, and brightness to your loaf.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your gingerbread loaf tender and avoid a tough crumb.

Step 5: Bake Your Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes. To check readiness, insert a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, your loaf is perfectly baked! Let it cool completely in the pan before moving to frosting.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the loaf cools, whip up the frosting by creaming together powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, sea salt, and heavy cream. Start with 1 tablespoon of cream, add more a little at a time until you reach that perfectly fluffy yet spreadable texture.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese frosting over the cooled loaf. Sprinkle chopped candied ginger, a dusting of orange zest mixed with sugar, and dried cranberries to make this festive treat truly shine.

How to Serve Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Ginger Recipe

A rectangular brown cake with a creamy white layer of icing spread thickly on the top, decorated with small pieces of bright orange zest and red dried berries scattered across the surface. Two slices have been cut from the cake and placed in front, showing the soft, dense texture inside, each slice topped with the same white icing and colorful toppings. The cake and slices rest on a round black wire cooling rack, which sits on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible underneath. A knife with a light wooden handle lies next to the cake on the rack, its blade near the cake edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of extra candied ginger pieces and a pinch of orange zest sugar add bursts of flavor and a beautiful sparkle to each slice. Dried cranberries lend a lovely contrast in both color and tartness, perfect for a festive presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair a thick slice with a hot cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness. For brunch or dessert, fresh fruit like sliced pears or oranges complements the citrus undertones wonderfully and keeps things light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try turning the loaf into individual mini cakes by baking the batter in muffin tins and frosting each one separately. Or slice the loaf thinly and serve with whipped cream and a drizzle of warm honey or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, cover the gingerbread loaf loosely with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it a convenient and delicious make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted loaf wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting. For quick freezing of slices, separate with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Reheating

To enjoy warmth and softness, reheat slices in a microwave for 15–20 seconds or briefly in a low oven. This brings back that freshly baked feeling without drying out the loaf.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Fresh ginger has a sharper, more pungent flavor and a different texture, so it’s best to stick to ground ginger for this recipe to keep the consistency and traditional gingerbread taste balanced.

Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, but the loaf will still be moist and flavorful.

Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the frosting a day ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir or gentle re-whip before spreading to keep it smooth and creamy.

What if I don’t have applesauce? Can I substitute it?

You can swap applesauce with mashed banana or pumpkin puree, but the flavor and texture will vary slightly. Applesauce is ideal because it keeps the loaf moist without adding extra flavor.

How spicy is this gingerbread loaf?

The gingerbread loaf offers a warm and balanced spiciness, not too overpowering. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the ground ginger or add a pinch of black pepper for a subtle kick.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Candied Ginger Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings joy to any table with its inviting aromas, luscious texture, and perfectly spiced flavor. Whether it’s a holiday centerpiece or an everyday treat, it’s sure to fill your kitchen with warmth and smiles. Don’t hesitate—grab your apron and give this lovely loaf a try; it’s bound to become a new favorite for you and everyone you share it with!