Lelia'S Gingerbread
Lelia's Gingerbread offers warm, spicy flavors with the comforting aroma of ginger and cinnamon. Its moist texture and rich molasses taste make it perfect for festive occasions or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. A delightful treat for those who enjoy classic, spiced baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over the shortening and stir to combine.
- Add brown sugar, molasses, and a well-beaten egg; beat well until smooth.
- Sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, soda, ginger, and cinnamon, then add to the wet mixture.
- Beat until the batter is smooth.
- Spray an 8-inch pan with non-stick spray or Pam.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 35 minutes.
- Allow to cool in the pan before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the ginger and cinnamon. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter for a richer taste. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth batter. If you prefer a lighter texture, try using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lelia's Gingerbread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Cottage Cheese And Pineapple Salad for a balanced meal. Consider drizzling with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness, or enjoy it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the gingerbread in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm, or enjoy it cold as a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lelia'S Gingerbread contains roughly 380 calories, with 1g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 621mg per serving (27% 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 type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar or maple syrup, though the flavor may vary slightly. If using liquid sweeteners like maple syrup, reduce the amount of boiling water slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
How do I know when the gingerbread is done baking?
The gingerbread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan and the top should be firm to the touch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make sure the blend you choose includes xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to help with texture. The baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
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).