Gingerbread is a classic holiday treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. This delicious dessert is not only tasty, but also packed with health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and when combined with other wholesome ingredients, it creates a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth, but also nourishes your body. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what’s in gingerbread and provide you with a mouth-watering recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup hot water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the hot water, until everything is well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then slice into squares and serve.
Nutritional Information
One serving of this gingerbread recipe contains:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 2g
Cooking Time
This gingerbread recipe takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and bake.
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Toothpick
Serving Suggestions
This gingerbread recipe is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a perfect dessert to serve during the fall and winter months, or anytime you want a warm and comforting treat.
Variations
If you want to switch things up, you can try adding nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. You can also experiment with different types of molasses to change the flavor and texture of the gingerbread.
Substitutions
If you don’t have molasses on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. You can also use coconut oil or vegetable shortening in place of butter if you want to make the recipe vegan.
Storage
This gingerbread recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Make sure your butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar.
- When adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, make sure to mix everything well to avoid any lumps.
- If you want your gingerbread to be extra moist, you can add an additional 1/4 cup of hot water to the batter.
Notes
This gingerbread recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season. It’s a classic dessert that’s packed with flavor and health benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger. Simply peel and grate the ginger root, then add it to the wet ingredients in the recipe.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Simply let it come to room temperature before serving.
Gingerbread is a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your sweet tooth and nourish your body. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just as a treat for yourself, this gingerbread recipe is sure to warm your heart and your taste buds.