Mother'S Molasses Gingerbread
A rich, spicy gingerbread with deep molasses flavor and warming spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter treats, appealing to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the baking soda into the flour and mix well.
- Add vinegar to the buttermilk and stir.
- Combine sugar, shortening, molasses, egg, and spices; then gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you're out of buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This gingerbread also benefits from a touch of nutmeg or allspice for added warmth. Make sure to measure the flour correctly; too much can lead to a dense texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive twist, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside Candied Apples (Dip) for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice a piece and microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Molasses Gingerbread contains roughly 2015 calories, with 7g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 187g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 810mg per serving (35% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar to add a richer flavor and moisture to the gingerbread. However, using all brown sugar may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add it separately to help with the structure of the gingerbread.
Can I freeze the gingerbread?
Yes, this gingerbread freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before slicing.
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).