Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the molasses and the egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Make the Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add the molasses, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting is thick and fluffy.
Frost the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cinnamon molasses frosting evenly over the top. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon or powdered sugar over the frosting.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve!
Notes
To enhance the spice flavor, use freshly ground nutmeg and cinnamon for a more intense aroma.
If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes.