why make this recipe
Old-Fashioned Gingerbread brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchens filled with delightful spice aromas. This classic dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make. It’s a comforting treat that can be enjoyed during holidays or any time you crave something sweet and spicy. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce baking to kids or to have a fun activity with friends and family.
how to make Old-Fashioned Gingerbread
Ingredients :
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup hot water
- Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar.
- Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the molasses mixture, alternating with the hot water until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve warm, dusted with confectioners’ sugar or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if desired.
how to serve Old-Fashioned Gingerbread
Old-Fashioned Gingerbread is best served warm. You can dust it with confectioners’ sugar for a simple touch. For a more indulgent treat, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. This adds a nice creamy contrast to the spiced cake. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a complete experience.
how to store Old-Fashioned Gingerbread
To store your Old-Fashioned Gingerbread, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic and foil before freezing.
tips to make Old-Fashioned Gingerbread
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Ground spices can lose potency over time, so check their freshness.
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature to get a smooth mixture when creaming with sugar.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter cake.
- If you like a stronger spice flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ginger or cinnamon as per your taste.
variation
You can customize Old-Fashioned Gingerbread by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture. Some people also like to mix in raisins or chocolate chips. You can even top it with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. The gingerbread may be denser than when using all-purpose flour.
2. What can I do if I don’t have molasses?
If you do not have molasses, you can use dark corn syrup or honey as a substitute, but it may slightly alter the flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the gingerbread ahead of time. Just store it properly as mentioned above and enjoy it later!
Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Old-Fashioned Gingerbread with those you love!
Old-Fashioned Gingerbread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger Use fresh spices for best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses Can be substituted with dark corn syrup or honey.
- 1 cup hot water
For Serving
- Confectioners’ sugar For dusting.
- Whipped cream For serving.
- Vanilla ice cream For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar.
- Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the molasses mixture, alternating with the hot water until well combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving
- Serve warm, dusted with confectioners’ sugar or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream if desired.