Heavenly Gingerbread
Heavenly Gingerbread offers warm, spicy flavors with rich molasses and aromatic spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter treats that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the shortening and sugar.
- Add the egg and beat well.
- Sift together the flour, soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- Combine the hot water and molasses.
- Add the water and molasses mixture to the creamed mixture.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of molasses, a mixture of honey and brown sugar can work as a substitute, although it may alter the taste slightly. Be careful not to overmix once the flour is added, as this can lead to a denser cake. For an extra kick, add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to the spice mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This gingerbread pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Consider serving it alongside a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy experience. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple icing or serve with a side of Nutty Pretzel Strawberry Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heavenly Gingerbread contains roughly 1715 calories, with 9g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 153g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1960mg per serving (85% 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
How can I enhance the flavor of the gingerbread?
To elevate the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of citrus zest, like orange or lemon, to the batter. This adds a refreshing brightness to the rich spices. Additionally, serving it warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar can enhance the presentation.
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).