Very Best Light Gingerbread
A light and aromatic gingerbread featuring warm spices and molasses, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy teatimes, appealing to spice lovers and dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add well beaten egg and molasses; mix well.
- Sift dry ingredients together and add alternately with hot water to the creamed mixture.
- Pour batter into an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake immediately in a 350°F oven for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the shortening and sugar are creamed thoroughly until fluffy. You can substitute the butter with more shortening for a dairy-free option. If you prefer a spicier gingerbread, increase the ginger to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of cloves. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
This gingerbread is delightful served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a spiced tea. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. Consider serving alongside a slice of Dilly Cheese Bread Ring for a delicious holiday spread.
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 and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Best Light Gingerbread contains roughly 639 calories, with 2g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (31% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2097mg per serving (91% 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 sugar?
Yes, you can replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the moisture content may change, so adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if needed.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, gradually add a little more hot water until you reach the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but not overly runny, so add just enough to loosen it without compromising the overall texture.
How can I tell when the gingerbread is done baking?
The gingerbread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking, as it can dry out quickly.
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).