Cousin Sallie'S Gingerbread
Cousin Sallie's Gingerbread offers a warm, spicy flavor profile with ginger, allspice, cinnamon, and mace, creating a comforting treat perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons. Its moist texture and rich molasses flavor make it a timeless classic suited for those who enjoy bold, aromatic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour with baking soda, salt, ginger, allspice, cinnamon, and mace.
- Combine melted shortening, brown sugar, and molasses in a mixing bowl and beat to blend.
- Add eggs to the mixture and beat until thoroughly blended.
- Gradually add dry ingredients, beating until smooth.
- Mix in vinegar and enough milk to make 1/2 cup, stirring until thoroughly blended.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 9 inch pan.
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you don't have allspice, you can substitute with equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg. To make this gingerbread a bit spicier, increase the ginger to 2 teaspoons. Always sift your dry ingredients to ensure an even distribution of spices and to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread warm, drizzled with a bit of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a festive touch, top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or serve alongside a cup of spiced tea. Consider enjoying it with a side of Chocolate Heaven for a chocolatey contrast.
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 freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cousin Sallie'S Gingerbread contains roughly 162 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1357mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
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 whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but this will alter the texture slightly, making it denser. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend. Adjust the liquid ingredients if necessary, as these blends can absorb moisture differently.
What can I do if my gingerbread is too dry?
If your gingerbread turns out dry, it might be due to overbaking or measuring inaccuracies. To add moisture, consider serving it with a drizzle of sauce, such as a warm caramel sauce or a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk. You can also serve it with fruit preserves or whipped cream to enhance the moistness.
How can I enhance the flavor of my gingerbread?
To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest or a splash of vanilla extract to the batter. These additions will complement the spices beautifully. You can also experiment with different spice blends or even add a tablespoon of brewed coffee to deepen the flavor profile.
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).