Colonial Gingerbread

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

Colonial Gingerbread offers warm, spicy flavors with rich molasses and fragrant spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter dessert indulgence. Suitable for everyone who loves classic baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. flour
  • 1 c. molasses
  • 3/4 c. buttermilk
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1/2 c. butter or margarine, softened
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 1 tsp. ginger
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Grease and flour a 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
  2. In a large bowl, measure all ingredients.
  3. Mix at low speed until blended.
  4. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 1 hour.
  6. Cool the gingerbread.
  7. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes. When mixing, avoid overbeating to keep the gingerbread tender. For additional warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the spices, which pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and ginger.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the gingerbread warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting treat during colder months.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap the gingerbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Colonial Gingerbread contains roughly 513 calories, with 10g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value), potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 877mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).

513 kcal 26% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10g 20% DV
Total Fat 10.2g 13% DV
Carbs 98.6g 36% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 28.6g 57% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 877.4mg 38% DV
Potassium 1083.1mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 174.1mg 58% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 100.2mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 16.7mg 19% DV
Vitamin D 1.6mcg 8% DV
Calcium 382.1mg 29% DV
Iron 3.4mg 19% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. However, this may slightly alter the texture, making the gingerbread denser. For gluten-free options, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum for proper binding.

What can I do if my gingerbread batter is too thick?

If your batter is too thick, you can gradually add a little more buttermilk or water until it reaches a pourable consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid at once; start with a tablespoon at a time to maintain the right balance of ingredients.

How can I enhance the flavor of my gingerbread?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of orange zest to the batter. Both additions will deepen the overall flavor profile, making it more aromatic and inviting. You can also experiment with different spices, like allspice or cardamom, for a unique twist.

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).

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