Maryland Gingerbread
A rich, spiced gingerbread with warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, perfect for cozy gatherings and served warm with Victory Sauce and whipped cream.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add beaten eggs to sugar, molasses, and melted shortening.
- Add flour, sifted with baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Add boiling water and mix well.
- Pour batter into a greased pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 40 minutes.
- Serve warm with Victory Sauce and whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using a mix of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour. If you don't have molasses, dark corn syrup can be a decent substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly. To enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of ground black pepper. Make sure to beat the eggs well for better incorporation into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Maryland Gingerbread warm, topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of Victory Sauce for an authentic touch. It pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Petite Cheesecake Cookies during the holidays for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the gingerbread for up to three months. To reheat, wrap pieces in aluminum foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes for a freshly-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maryland Gingerbread contains roughly 1276 calories, with 14g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% 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 sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar, but the flavor will be less rich. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth, so if you use granulated sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic the flavor.
Is it possible to make this gingerbread gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, as it helps provide the necessary structure for the cake.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the gingerbread dairy-free, simply replace the melted shortening with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. This will maintain the moisture and texture without compromising flavor.
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).