Great Grandma'S Gingerbread
A warm, spiced gingerbread with rich molasses and aromatic spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy baking sessions, appealing to all ages with its hearty flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar; add beaten egg and molasses.
- Sift all dry ingredients and add to the creamed mixture.
- Add hot water last and beat until smooth.
- Pour batter into a greased pan and bake for 40 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter gingerbread, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor. If you don't have lard, using all butter works too, but be mindful that it might alter the texture slightly. Make sure to measure your molasses accurately for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This gingerbread pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee. You can also create a delightful dessert spread by including it with recipes like Family Oatmeal-Raisin Cookies or Fudgemellows, enhancing your dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grandma'S Gingerbread contains roughly 209 calories, with 3g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 686mg per serving (30% 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 sweetener instead of molasses?
While molasses adds a unique flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with dark corn syrup or honey. However, this may slightly change the taste and texture of the gingerbread. If using honey, consider reducing the sugar slightly, as honey is sweeter than molasses.
What if I want to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this gingerbread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum for proper texture. Additionally, check that all other ingredients, particularly the baking soda, are gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
Can I freeze gingerbread for later use?
Yes, you can freeze gingerbread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave before serving.
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).