Name: Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake: A Festive Holiday Showstopper
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 260 g All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure and body); 200 g Sugar (Adds sweetness); 90 g Cocoa Powder (Contributes chocolate flavor); 2 tsp Baking Soda (Leavening agent); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Leavening agent); 1 tsp Lebkuchen Spice (Authentic gingerbread flavor); 0.5 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor); 2 Large Eggs (Binds ingredients); 160 ml Buttermilk (Adds tanginess); 80 g Sour Cream (Adds richness); 80 ml Sunflower Oil (Keeps cake moist); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Depth to flavor profile); 240 ml Fresh-Brewed Coffee (Enhances chocolate flavor); 100 g Ritter Sport Gingerbread Chocolate, chopped (Adds chunks of flavor); 200 g Semi-Sweet Chocolate (>60% cocoa) (For the glaze); 1 tsp Coconut Oil (Helps achieve a shiny finish); Fresh Cranberries and/or Raspberries (Provides color and tartness); Stems of Rosemary (Adds aesthetic appeal)

The first whiff of gingerbread and chocolate mingling in the oven is the kind of festive magic that can transport you straight to a cozy holiday gathering. This Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake is more than just a delicious dessert; it’s a centerpiece that brings warmth and cheer to any holiday spread. With its rich texture and delightful combination of spices, it’s an easy way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, this vegetarian treat is freezer-friendly, making it a versatile addition to your holiday baking plans. Ready to create a dessert that’s sure to be the highlight of your Christmas celebration? Let’s dive in together!

Why is this cake a holiday favorite?

Irresistible Festivity: This Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake is not just a treat, but a toast to holiday vibes, blending the warm spices of gingerbread with rich chocolate, captivating everyone’s taste buds.

Visually Stunning: It’s a cake that doubles as a centerpiece, adorned with berries and rosemary, making it the talk of the table!

Time-Saving Delight: The straightforward recipe means you can spend less time baking and more time enjoying the holidays with loved ones.

Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time! You can bake this beauty in advance and freeze it, ensuring a delectable dessert is ready for impromptu gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it at a festive party or enjoying a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress everyone. Pair it with a cup of coffee or even savor it with a slice of Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience!

Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour (260g) – Provides structure and body to ensure a perfect rise for your cake.
Sugar (200g) – Adds sweetness while keeping the cake moist and tender.
Cocoa Powder (90g) – Contributes a deep chocolate flavor that complements the gingerbread spices beautifully.
Baking Soda (2 tsp) & Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Essential leavening agents that help your cake reach its fluffy potential.
Lebkuchen Spice (1 tsp) – Gives that authentic gingerbread flavor with a blend of warm, aromatic spices.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness and richness.
Large Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture for a tender crumb.
Buttermilk (160ml) – Contributes tanginess and keeps the cake light and fluffy.
Sour Cream (80g) – Adds richness and ensures the cake remains moist, perfect for a holiday treat.
Sunflower Oil (80ml) – Keeps the cake moist and adds a touch of healthy fat.
Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Provides depth to the flavor profile, rounding out the cake’s sweetness.
Fresh-Brewed Coffee (240ml) – Enhances the chocolate flavor without overpowering the gingerbread essence.
Ritter Sport Gingerbread Chocolate (100g, chopped) – Adds delightful chunks of flavor and texture, elevating your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake.

For the Glaze

Semi-Sweet Chocolate (>60% cocoa, 200g) – Creates a rich, luscious chocolate glaze that’s irresistible on top of the bundt cake.
Coconut Oil (1 tsp) – Helps achieve a shiny finish on the glaze, adding a luxurious touch.

For Decoration

Fresh Cranberries and/or Raspberries – Provides a pop of color and tartness, making your cake a visual delight.
Stems of Rosemary – Adds aesthetic appeal as well as a subtle hint of herbal flavor, perfect for the holiday theme.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms, generously grease a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter, then dust it lightly with cocoa powder. This ensures that your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake will slide out effortlessly once baked, presenting that beautiful shape you desire.

Step 2: Brew and Chop
Brew a strong cup of fresh coffee (240ml) and set it aside to cool slightly. Then, chop the Ritter Sport Gingerbread Chocolate into small chunks, allowing the rich gingerbread flavors to distribute evenly within the cake, enhancing its deliciousness.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, lebkuchen spice, and salt. Mix on low speed for a minute or until fully blended. The aroma of spices will be uplifting and prepare you for the festive baking ahead as you create the base for your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, buttermilk, sour cream, sunflower oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and bubbly. This mixture provides moisture and richness to your cake. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix while your mixer runs on medium speed, ensuring everything melds together beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Coffee and Chocolate
Gradually add the warm coffee to the batter, continuing to mix until the batter is well combined and smooth. Once incorporated, gently fold in the chopped gingerbread chocolate. The batter should be silky and fragrant, hinting at the lovely taste of this Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the luscious batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top if necessary. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating that your cake is perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cool Before Unmolding
Once baked, carefully remove the bundt cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is important; gently loosening the edges with a knife will help you release the Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake without damaging its beautiful shape when you turn it out onto a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake cools completely on the rack, prepare the glaze by melting semi-sweet chocolate and coconut oil together in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. This melt-in-your-mouth glaze will elevate your cake to another level of decadence and shine.

Step 9: Glaze and Decorate
Once the cake is fully cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate glaze beautifully over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. For a festive touch, decorate with fresh cranberries, raspberries, and sprigs of rosemary, creating a picturesque centerpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake

Airtight Container: Store your leftover Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Refrigeration: If you need extra freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent any drying out.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before indulging in this delightful holiday treat!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake

Perfect Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; mix just until combined. This ensures your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake remains light and tender.
Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the cake’s center towards the end of baking. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Chill Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients can yield a better texture. Take out eggs, buttermilk, and sour cream beforehand for optimal results.
Glazing Tips: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze for a smooth finish. You can also tilt the cake slightly to let the glaze run more evenly.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh ingredients, particularly the gingerbread chocolate. Their quality significantly enhances the flavor of your cake.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the holiday cheer with less stress. You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; just allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. For an even richer flavor, consider glazing the cake the day before serving, letting it rest overnight to allow the chocolate glaze to set perfectly. When it’s time to serve, simply add your colorful decorations like cranberries and rosemary, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece with minimal last-minute effort, making your holiday gatherings truly memorable!

Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and give your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake a personal twist that suits your taste and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk and sour cream for almond or coconut yogurt to keep the cake rich and moist without dairy.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunchy texture. They bring a lovely contrast to the soft cake.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive friends while keeping the festive spirit alive.
Spicy Kick: Boost the warmth by adding an extra teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile that tingles the taste buds.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate zested orange or lemon into the batter for a zesty freshness that perfectly complements the spices.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: For a more intense chocolate flavor, replace half the cocoa powder with dark chocolate powder or add in some dark chocolate chips.
Cranberry Delight: Fold in dried cranberries into the batter for a sweet-tart burst in every slice, enhancing the cake’s festive appeal.
Syrupy Sweetness: Drizzle homemade maple syrup over the glaze after it sets for an extra layer of sweetness that beautifully combines with the spices.

Feeling inspired? Alongside your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake, how about serving it with a slice of Chocolate Nostalgia Cake for another indulgent treat? Or pair it with a cup of mulled wine to elevate those holiday gatherings!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake

This rich and festive cake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks to make your holiday gathering unforgettable.

Rich Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch that complements the cake’s dense texture, balancing sweetness with creaminess.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices in mulled wine harmonize beautifully with gingerbread flavors, making it the perfect festive beverage to warm your heart.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee enhances the chocolate taste while providing a delightful contrast to the gingerbread spices for a cozy dessert experience.
Cinnamon Ice Cream: Creamy and indulgent, cinnamon ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors, elevating each slice to new heights of enjoyment.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These minty delights offer a refreshing crunch alongside the velvety bundt cake, making for an exciting texture contrast on your dessert platter.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of tart berries and citrus adds brightness and freshness to the table, enhancing the cake’s richness while providing a burst of color.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For an added touch of decadence, drizzle a chocolate sauce over each slice of cake; it deepens the chocolate flavor while pleasing the eye.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: This cocoa drink can be an indulgent treat alongside the bundt cake, as its warmth and spices echo the festive essence of the season.
Gingerbread Cookies: Tying in with the cake’s flavor profile, these cookies offer a playful texture contrast, rounding out your holiday dessert experience.
Pecan Pie Bars: Their nutty sweetness brings a chewy texture that pairs exquisitely with the moistness of the gingerbread chocolate bundt cake for a delightful end to your meal.

Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of gingerbread chocolate should I use for the cake?
I recommend using high-quality gingerbread chocolate, like Ritter Sport, as it adds chunks of flavor and richness. Look for chocolates with at least 60% cocoa to ensure a well-rounded taste without overpowering the gingerbread spices.

How should I store my leftover Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake either whole or in individual slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or move it to the fridge overnight.

Why is my cake dense or gummy?
If your Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake turns out dense, chances are it was overmixed. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, and be gentle when folding in chocolate. Also, ensure you measure your flour correctly; too much flour can lead to a heavy cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time for the holidays?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! You can bake it a day in advance, as the flavors deepen and improve as it rests. Just ensure it cools completely and is stored properly before serving.

Is the Gingerbread Chocolate Bundt Cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this cake is vegetarian-friendly! It uses eggs, but no other animal-derived ingredients. Just be mindful of checking that your chocolate is also suitable for vegetarians. Enjoy a slice of festive delight without concern!