Grandmother'S Delicious Gingerbread
A rich, spiced gingerbread with deep molasses flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations, served with ice cream, whipped cream, or applesauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend sugar, Crisco, and eggs until well combined.
- Stir in molasses.
- Add the sifted flour, soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt alternately with buttermilk, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 12 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or applesauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used instead, but be mindful of the flavor difference. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. This gingerbread can also be made in muffin tins for individual servings. If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the brown sugar by a couple of tablespoons.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm for the best flavor, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the gingerbread's rich taste. Applesauce also makes a delicious alternative topping. This dessert pairs beautifully with Old Fashioned Pecan Pie for a delightful holiday spread. Consider adding a side of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy touch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled gingerbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a microwave or oven until warm, ensuring it stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmother'S Delicious Gingerbread contains roughly 796 calories, with 4g protein, 179g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (57% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 905mg per serving (39% 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 substitute the molasses with something else?
Yes, you can substitute molasses with dark corn syrup or honey in a pinch. However, this may alter the flavor slightly. If using honey, consider using a bit less sugar in the recipe, as honey is sweeter.
Is it possible to make this gingerbread gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum, as it helps with the structure of baked goods. The taste will remain deliciously similar.
How can I tell when the gingerbread is fully baked?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the gingerbread is ready. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
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).