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Moist Rhubarb Ginger Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Easy and Perfect

moist rhubarb ginger cake - featured image

A moist and tender rhubarb ginger cake with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for spring celebrations and casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, finely grated
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) plain yogurt, preferably full-fat
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (about 200 g) rhubarb, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (180 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and grated fresh ginger.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and eggs until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
  4. Mix in yogurt and vanilla extract until combined and smooth.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture using a rubber spatula until no streaks of flour remain; do not overmix.
  6. Gently fold in chopped rhubarb, patting dry if too juicy.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Cool cake in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  11. Gradually add powdered sugar, then beat in vanilla extract and lemon juice until fluffy.
  12. Once cake is completely cool, spread cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  13. Optional: Sprinkle freshly grated ginger or thin rhubarb slices on top.

Notes

If rhubarb batter feels too thick or dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or extra yogurt before baking. For baking at altitude, add an extra tablespoon of flour. Use fresh ginger for best flavor; ground ginger can substitute but is less vibrant. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute butter, cream cheese, and yogurt with plant-based alternatives. Cake can be baked in round or square pans; adjust baking time accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: rhubarb cake, ginger cake, cream cheese frosting, spring dessert, moist cake, easy cake recipe, seasonal baking