Mom'S Gingerbread
Mom's Gingerbread is a classic, warmly spiced treat featuring rich molasses and aromatic ginger. Its moist texture and comforting flavors make it perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations, offering a nostalgic taste of traditional baking that appeals to all ages who appreciate hearty, flavorful desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the dry ingredients (flour, soda, baking powder, salt, ginger) together and set aside.
- Cream together the egg, milk, shortening, and molasses until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the batter into an 8 x 12-inch greased and floured pan.
- Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier gingerbread, consider increasing the ginger to 1.5 teaspoons. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Ensure you sift the flour and dry ingredients well to avoid clumps, which can affect the texture. For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor, similar to what you might find in Chocolate Caramel Brownies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Cranberry Salad Supreme for a colorful holiday spread. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the gingerbread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For reheating, slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a toaster oven to restore the crusty exterior.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Gingerbread contains roughly 236 calories, with 4g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% 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. Once baked and cooled, store it wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it moist. This also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste. Just remember to reheat it slightly before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or dark corn syrup. This will alter the flavor slightly, but the sweetness will remain. For a healthier option, consider using brown sugar mixed with a bit of water to replicate the consistency of molasses.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this gingerbread can be frozen. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).