EASY FROSTING FOR GINGERBREAD CAKE RECIPES

Steps:

• Sift the confectioners' sugar into a small bowl. Stir in enough milk to make a smooth but not too runny consistency. You may need to adjust with some more sugar. Divide this mixture into small containers, depending on how many colors you want. Color each small container with colors appropriate for the season, using as much food coloring as needed to create desired hues.

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 350F.  For the cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and baking soda. In a medium bowl, stir together the molasses and hot water until fully combined. Whisk in the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into dry mixture and whisk just until no dry streaks are left (do not over mix).  Spray a 13x9-inch cake pan with baking spray (or grease with butter). Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.  For the frosting: Combine the cream cheese and butter in a large bowl. Beat with a hand mixer (or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment) until fully combined, about 1 minute. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Beat in the lemon zest and continue beating until light and fluffy, 1 more minute. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Garnish with candied ginger and gold sparkling sugar, if desired.