Best Ever Gingerbread
A rich, spicy gingerbread with warm notes of ginger, cloves, and cinnamon, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy winter moments, offering a moist and flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cloves, ginger, cinnamon, molasses, corn oil, sugar, and beaten eggs; set aside.
- Dissolve the soda in 1/8 cup hot water.
- Add the dissolved soda to the mixture from step 1.
- Sift in the flour and beat well until smooth.
- Add the boiling water and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the batter quickly into a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider increasing the amounts of ginger and cloves. If you're out of corn oil, vegetable oil or melted coconut oil can be used as substitutes. Make sure to sift the flour well to prevent lumps, and if you prefer a more moist texture, try adding a tablespoon of applesauce. This gingerbread can also be enhanced with a dash of vanilla extract for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and water. This gingerbread can be enjoyed alongside American recipes like Brown Sugar Peanut Brittle for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Best Ever Gingerbread contains roughly 387 calories, with 7g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. Consider using a mix of both flours for a lighter gingerbread while still incorporating the health benefits of whole wheat.
What can I add to make this gingerbread more festive?
To enhance the festive flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or fold in dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. You could also incorporate citrus zest, like orange or lemon, for a refreshing twist.
Can I freeze the gingerbread for later use?
Absolutely! Allow the gingerbread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).