Old Fashioned Ginger Bread

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

Old Fashioned Ginger Bread is a moist, spicy treat with rich molasses and warming spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 cup hot water

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together quickly in a bowl.
  2. Pour the mixture into a medium-sized buttered and floured baking pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
  4. Serve with whipped topping.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you want a spicier kick, try increasing the ginger and cinnamon slightly. You can substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, and if you don't have baking soda, baking powder can work in a pinch, but adjust the quantity. Remember to mix quickly to avoid overworking the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Old Fashioned Ginger Bread pairs beautifully with whipped topping or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a complementary side, serve it alongside a light Apple-Rice Salad, which balances the rich flavors. A warm cup of tea or coffee also enhances the experience, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or cozy evenings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold with a dollop of whipped topping.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Fashioned Ginger Bread contains roughly 222 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

222 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 5.1g 7% DV
Carbs 45.7g 17% DV
Fiber 7.2g 26% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 415mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 81.2mg 27% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 11mg 12% DV
Calcium 205.3mg 16% DV
Iron 2.6mg 14% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. It's best to use a blend of both flours for a lighter gingerbread while maintaining the health benefits of whole grains.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make gluten-free gingerbread, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking soda is certified gluten-free as well, and consider adding a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help with texture.

What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. A splash of orange juice or zest can also provide a lovely citrus note that complements the spices beautifully.

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).

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