Fred'S Favorite Gingerbread
A moist, spiced gingerbread featuring warm flavors of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix applesauce and brown sugar together in a bowl.
- Add the well-beaten egg to the mixture.
- Stir in molasses until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, allspice, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well.
- Pour hot water into the batter and stir until smooth.
- Pour the batter into an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a mix of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. You can substitute honey for molasses for a different flavor profile. If you want to spice it up, add a dash of nutmeg or even a bit of cayenne pepper for heat. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Fred's Favorite Gingerbread warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Spoon Bread for a cozy meal. For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with a simple glaze for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fred'S Favorite Gingerbread contains roughly 297 calories, with 1g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of potassium (19% of the Daily Value), iron (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1190mg per serving (52% 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 make this gingerbread recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gingerbread batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What can I substitute for applesauce in this recipe?
If you don't have applesauce, mashed bananas or pumpkin puree can be great alternatives. They will add moisture and a slight sweetness to the gingerbread, making it equally delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this gingerbread vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and ensure the molasses is vegan-friendly. This will maintain the texture and flavor of the gingerbread.
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).