Laura Ingalls Wilder Gingerbread
Laura Ingalls Wilder Gingerbread offers a warm, spicy flavor with notes of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, creating a comforting treat perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons. Its rich molasses base and aromatic spices make it a nostalgic favorite for those who love classic gingerbread desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter, brown sugar, molasses, boiling water, and baking soda.
- Add the beaten eggs last and mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you don't have molasses, a mixture of honey and brown sugar can work in a pinch. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps, and consider adding chopped nuts or raisins for added texture. This gingerbread pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It also makes a fantastic breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of Easy Salad for a light contrast to the sweetness.
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 keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laura Ingalls Wilder Gingerbread contains roughly 421 calories, with 4g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), iron (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 685mg 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 make this gingerbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gingerbread a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container once it has cooled completely. This allows the flavors to deepen, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Applesauce or mashed bananas can also work as a substitute for moisture and binding.
How can I tell when the gingerbread is done baking?
To check if the gingerbread is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry texture.
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).