Sugarless Gingerbread

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 16 Cuisine: American

A rich, spicy gingerbread without added sugar, featuring warm ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Perfect for festive occasions or cozy gatherings, appealing to spice lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup melted margarine
  • 1 egg, well beaten
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup dark molasses
  • 2 1/2 cups sifted flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 3/4 cup hot water

Instructions

  1. Combine melted margarine and dark molasses; add the beaten egg and stir until thoroughly blended.
  2. Mix and sift the dry ingredients—baking soda, ginger, salt, cinnamon, and cloves—and add alternately with hot water to the mixture.
  3. Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
  4. Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter. If you prefer, you can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. If you find yourself without molasses, honey or agave syrup can work as a sweetener, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or paired with a dollop of whipped cream. This gingerbread is delightful with a side of hot apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a comforting dessert, it pairs beautifully with Skillet Sweet Potatoes, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sugarless Gingerbread contains roughly 347 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

347 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 31.4g 40% DV
Carbs 16g 6% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 753.2mg 33% DV
Potassium 95.3mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 38.7mg 13% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 40.4mg 3% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
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 a different type of fat instead of margarine?

Yes, you can substitute melted butter or coconut oil for the margarine in this recipe. Both options will add a rich flavor to the gingerbread, though coconut oil may impart a slight coconut taste.

Is it possible to make this gingerbread gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use one that includes xanthan gum or add it separately to achieve the right texture and consistency.

What is the best way to tell if the gingerbread is done baking?

To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the gingerbread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the gingerbread is ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry texture.

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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