2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
3/4 cup mild molasses
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup water
1½ teaspoons baking soda
3 ounces fresh ginger, peeled, grated, and finely chopped (from a 4-inch piece)
2 large eggs, room temperature
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
Whisk together flour, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together molasses, sugar, and oil.
Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan, stir in the baking soda, and then mix in the molasses mixture. Remove from heat and add the ginger.
Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the batter. Add the eggs, and continue mixing until everything is thoroughly combined.
Scrape into the prepared pan with a rubber spatula, and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool the cake for at least 30 minutes before removing from the pan.