Copycat Starbuck's Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray (the kind with flour in it - like Baker's Joy.)

Step 2

Using a stand mixer or an electric mixer, cream together the butter and the sugar until fluffy. Beat in the vanilla and the egg. Blend in the applesauce.

Step 3

Slowly add the flour, baking soda and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.) When everything is mixed, pour the batter into your loaf pan.

Step 4

Bake for about 55 minutes until it is risen and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely on a rack before frosting.

Step 5

Beat the cream cheese with the vanilla and then add 1 1/2 cups of the powdered sugar and beat until smooth and creamy. Add a little more sugar if it's not as thick as you like.

Step 6

Spread a thick layer of the frosting over the gingerbread cake. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts (optional). Then slice and serve!