Holiday Gingerbread
Holiday Gingerbread offers a warm, spiced flavor profile with rich molasses and aromatic spices like ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. Perfect for festive occasions, it yields a moist, tender cake that pairs beautifully with holiday festivities and gatherings. Its comforting aroma and spicy kick make it a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Add the beaten egg and molasses to the creamed mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Sift together the flour, salt, ground cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and baking soda, then gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup. You can also substitute half of the molasses with honey or maple syrup for a different taste. Make sure to grease your pan well to prevent sticking, especially if you plan to frost it later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Holiday Gingerbread with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce for an indulgent treat. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a slice of Holiday Pound Cake to create a delightful dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the gingerbread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it moist. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Gingerbread contains roughly 206 calories, with 1g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of potassium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. You might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a lighter result. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with whole wheat flour.
Is it possible to freeze gingerbread?
Absolutely! Allow the gingerbread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving or warm it in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for added sweetness. You can also incorporate chocolate chips for a different twist. Just be mindful not to overload the batter to maintain its structure.
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).