Molasses Gingerbread
A rich and spicy molasses gingerbread featuring warm ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and optional raisins, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday festivities.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Blend in molasses until smooth.
- Stir in beaten eggs and mix well.
- Dissolve baking soda in hot water and stir into the molasses mixture.
- Sift together flour, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves.
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the molasses mixture until well blended.
- Add raisins if desired.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of dark and light brown sugar. If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the molasses slightly and substitute with honey or maple syrup. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you prefer a spicier version, add more ground ginger or even a pinch of nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this gingerbread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top for added sweetness. For a festive touch, consider serving with a side of spiced fruit compote.
Storage & Reheating
Store the gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep it moist, you can place a slice of bread in the container with it. For longer storage, freeze the cooled gingerbread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Gingerbread contains roughly 908 calories, with 13g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (219% of the Daily Value), iron (140% of the Daily Value), and calcium (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make this gingerbread a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Just remember to thaw it fully before serving to enjoy its full flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don’t have molasses, dark corn syrup can be used as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly. Honey or maple syrup can also work, but adjust the sweetness as needed since they are sweeter than molasses. However, the unique taste of molasses is hard to replicate.
Can I add other spices to the gingerbread?
Absolutely! You can customize the spice blend to your liking. Additional spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom can enhance the flavor. Just be cautious with the amounts, starting with a small quantity and adjusting to taste, especially if you prefer a spicier profile.
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).