Old-Fashioned Gingerbread And Sauce

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 9 Cuisine: American

A warm, spiced gingerbread with rich molasses flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations. Its tender crumb and aromatic spices make it a comforting treat for all ages, complemented by a classic sauce that enhances its deep, warming flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 cup dark molasses
  • 3/4 cup hot water
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Grease and flour a 9 x 9 x 2-inch square pan.
  3. Measure all ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
  4. Blend for 30 seconds on low speed, scraping the bowl constantly.
  5. Beat for 3 minutes on medium speed, scraping the bowl occasionally.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  7. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you don’t have shortening, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly. You can also substitute half of the molasses with honey for a different sweetness profile. For extra spice, consider adding a pinch of cloves. This gingerbread is perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a comforting dessert.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the gingerbread warm, drizzled with a simple sauce made from melted butter and brown sugar for added richness. It pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. For a delightful twist, try serving it alongside a cup of hot apple cider or tea. This gingerbread also complements the flavors in American recipes like Pineapple Bake.

Storage & Reheating

Once cooled, store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old-Fashioned Gingerbread And Sauce contains roughly 418 calories, with 5g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

418 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 18.8g 24% DV
Carbs 58.9g 21% DV
Fiber 1.7g 6% DV
Sugar 1.4g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 592.1mg 26% DV
Potassium 378.7mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 155.2mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 38.1mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 3.5mg 4% DV
Calcium 185.5mg 14% DV
Iron 1.5mg 8% DV
Contains 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 make the gingerbread denser. To achieve a lighter texture, consider using a mix of both flours, keeping in mind that whole wheat may absorb more liquid.

What can I add to the gingerbread for extra flavor?

You can enhance the flavor by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. For a more adventurous twist, try adding a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy kick.

How do I know when the gingerbread is done baking?

The gingerbread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, the edges should begin to pull away from the sides of the pan, indicating that it's set.

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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