Soft Molasses Gingerbread
Soft molasses gingerbread offers warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday treats, with a moist, tender texture and aromatic aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, sugar, and ginger.
- Add the shortening, beaten egg, and molasses to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Gradually add the boiling water, stirring until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice alongside the ginger and cinnamon. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Remember to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly for a light and fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soft molasses gingerbread warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk or enjoy it alongside a slice of the Low-Fat Cherry Chip Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Molasses Gingerbread contains roughly 1315 calories, with 19g protein, 202g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 926mg per serving (40% 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 sweetener instead of molasses?
While molasses gives this gingerbread its signature flavor and moisture, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different taste. Keep in mind that using honey will result in a slightly different texture and may be sweeter, so you might want to reduce the sugar slightly.
What can I serve with gingerbread?
Gingerbread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a scoop of ice cream. It also pairs well with seasonal fruits like poached pears or apples, and a warm cup of spiced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this gingerbread vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce. Replace the shortening with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Ensure that your molasses is vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based treat!
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).