Sponge Gingerbread
Sponge Gingerbread offers a moist, spiced treat with rich molasses and warming ginger and cinnamon flavors. Its tender crumb makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, pairing wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. A nostalgic dessert that combines classic spices with a tender sponge texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add molasses and egg; mix well.
- Sift together ginger, cinnamon, and flour.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the molasses mixture.
- Dissolve baking soda in boiling water and add to the batter; it will be runny.
- Pour batter into a greased pan and bake at 325°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider increasing the ginger to 1.5 teaspoons. You can substitute brown sugar for the white sugar for a deeper caramel flavor. If you're out of molasses, honey or maple syrup can work, but the taste will change. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. This gingerbread pairs beautifully with Chewy Cake Squares for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat. It also pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, try topping it with a drizzle of icing or serving it alongside a fresh fruit compote. This gingerbread is perfect for holiday gatherings and can even be enjoyed with American recipes like Lemon Jello Pound Cake for a delightful dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the gingerbread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sponge Gingerbread contains roughly 565 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 934mg per serving (41% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may change the texture slightly, making it denser. To maintain a light and fluffy texture, consider blending half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
What can I do if my batter is too runny?
If your batter is too runny, it may be due to the boiling water added. Make sure you measure the ingredients accurately. If you find it too thin, you can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a thicker consistency, but avoid adding too much at once.
Can I freeze the gingerbread?
Yes, you can freeze the sponge gingerbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and reheat as desired.
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).