Soft Gingerbread with Lingonberries

This delectable soft gingerbread with lingonberries is a delightful treat that combines the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom with the refreshing tang of lingonberries. Perfect for the festive season or any time you crave something comforting, this cake is moist and flavorful. The rich combination of spices not only fills the room with an enticing aroma but also makes each bite a taste sensation. The use of syrup adds a unique sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Whipped cream cheese frosting adds a creamy contrast not just in texture but also in flavor, bringing everything together. Whether enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or as a standalone dessert, this gingerbread is sure to impress. Additionally, its rustic appearance with a sprinkle of berries on top makes it a visually appealing centerpiece. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring that both novice and experienced bakers can achieve delicious results. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 200 ml sugar
• 175 ml light syrup
• 150 g butter or margarine

Spices:

• 3/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger (fresh preferred)
• 3/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp grated orange zest

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 200 g wheat flour

Frosting:

• 200 g cream cheese (Philadelphia or similar)
• 200 ml powdered sugar
• 50 g soft butter (room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla sugar
• Lemon juice

Preparation Time

Total: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) to prepare it for baking the cake.
2. Melt the fats: In a small saucepan, melt the butter or margarine gently and set aside.
3. Prepare syrup mixture: In the same saucepan, combine the syrup with the ground cloves, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and orange zest. Bring them to a slight boil, then cool.
4. Beat eggs and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar thoroughly until the mixture turns pale and slightly thickened.
5. Combine mixtures: Gradually pour the cooled syrup mixture into the beaten eggs, stirring continuously to blend the flavors.
6. Incorporate dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the baking powder with the wheat flour.
7. Integrate into the batter: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the melted butter, to ensure smooth incorporation.
8. Prepare the baking form: Grease a cake pan and sprinkle it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.
9. Pour the batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan, spreading it evenly.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
11. Cool: Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan to avoid breaking the delicate structure.
12. Make the frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
13. Adjust flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice for a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
14. Frost the cake: Spread the prepared frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
15. Decorate: Scatter lingonberries on top of the frosting for a pop of color and flavor. You may use other tart berries if desired.
16. Refrigerate: Allow the cake to set slightly in the refrigerator before serving.
17. Serve: Slice and serve with a smile. This gingery delight is perfect as is or with a side of whipped cream.
18. Enjoy: Savor every bite of this sublime combination of spices and sweet-tart berries.

Tips

• Substitute: Use any tart berries like cranberries or red currants if lingonberries are unavailable.
• Enhance flavor: Chilling the cake for a few hours can help meld flavors.
• Texture: Don’t overbeat the batter to maintain a fluffy texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 37g

Variations

• For a gluten-free version, replace wheat flour with almond flour.
• Substitute brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Enjoy with a warm cup of spiced tea or mulled wine.

Best Places

1. Fika - Experience traditional Swedish lingonberry treats. Location: Rödbodtorget 3, Stockholm, Sweden.
2. Tartine Bakery – Contemporary twists on classic desserts. Location: Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
3. Cafe Central – Relish in culinary history. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
4. Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki – Fusion flavors in delicate pastries. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.
5. Demel – Luxurious cakes and more. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
6. Café Florian – Oldest café in Europe with exquisite offerings. Location: Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy.
7. The Chocolate Room – Decadent desserts in a cozy space. Location: 269 Court St, Brooklyn, USA.
8. Cafebreria El Pendulo – Relish coffee and books. Location: Av. Nuevo León 115, Mexico City, Mexico.
9. Kaffeehaus – Viennese-inspired indulgences. Location: 12 Calea Victoriei, Bucharest, Romania.
10. Café Imperial – Elegance meets cuisine. Location: Na Poříčí 15, Prague, Czech Republic.