National Gingerbread Competition 2022

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup hot water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated.
5. Beat in the molasses.
6. In a small bowl, mix the hot water and baking soda together. Add this to the molasses mixture and stir to combine.
7. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until fully combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 215
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 135mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 3g

Cooking Time:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Equipment:

• 9×9 inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Bowls
• Mixing spoons
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Hand mixer or stand mixer

Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Variations:

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for texture and flavor. Swap out the molasses for honey or maple syrup for a different taste profile.

Substitutions:

• Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Swap out the brown sugar for granulated sugar or honey.

Storage:

Store the gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips:

• Make sure to use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter or it will become tough and dry.
• Let the gingerbread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

Notes:

This recipe is perfect for the National Gingerbread Competition 2022. The warm spices and sweet molasses make for a delicious and festive treat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I make this recipe without molasses?

You can substitute honey or maple syrup for the molasses, but it will change the flavor profile of the gingerbread.

• Can I use a different size baking pan?

You can use a different size baking pan, but the cooking time may vary.

• Can I freeze the gingerbread?

Yes, the gingerbread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Overall, the National Gingerbread Competition 2022 is a fun and exciting way to showcase your baking skills. This gingerbread recipe is the perfect base for creating a show-stopping gingerbread creation. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get ready to compete!