My Mother'S Old Fashioned Gingerbread
A classic old-fashioned gingerbread with rich molasses flavor and warming spices, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter treats, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar, molasses, and melted margarine.
- Sift the dry ingredients: flour, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the sugar mixture, mixing well.
- Add hot water with dissolved soda gradually into the mixture.
- Beat the eggs and add them last, stirring well to combine.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter gingerbread, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you prefer a deeper flavor, try adding a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter. Keep an eye on the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary; check for doneness with a toothpick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gingerbread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of Mocha Sauce for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect afternoon snack. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mother'S Old Fashioned Gingerbread contains roughly 536 calories, with 6g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 470mg per serving (20% 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 honey instead of molasses in this recipe?
While you can substitute honey for molasses, it will change the flavor and color of the gingerbread. Honey is sweeter and lighter, so you may want to reduce the sugar slightly. The final texture may also differ, resulting in a softer cake.
What can I add to make the gingerbread spicier?
To increase the spiciness of your gingerbread, consider adding an extra teaspoon of ground ginger or a pinch of black pepper. You could also incorporate finely chopped crystallized ginger for a chewy texture and intense flavor, enhancing the overall depth of this classic dessert.
Is there a vegan alternative for this gingerbread recipe?
Yes, you can make this gingerbread vegan by substituting the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute in place of margarine, and ensure that your sugar is vegan-friendly.
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).