As the scent of warm spices fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a gingerbread loaf to evoke the spirit of the season. This delightful recipe combines rich molasses with a medley of warming spices—ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg—to create a moist and flavorful loaf that is perfect for cozy gatherings or a quiet afternoon treat. Whether enjoyed sliced with a smear of butter or paired with a steaming cup of tea, this gingerbread loaf transforms any moment into a celebration. Let’s dive into the world of baking and discover how to create this festive favorite that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
Spiced Gingerbread Loaf
1
loaf10
minutes1
hourOur gingerbread loaf is a beautifully spiced treat, boasting a tender crumb and a beautifully dark hue, thanks to the rich molasses. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible addition to your holiday table or a delightful snack all year round. With its aromatic flavors and subtle warmth, this loaf captures the essence of traditional gingerbread while inviting you to savor the simple pleasures of homemade goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Enjoy the nostalgia and warmth of this gingerbread loaf, and watch as it becomes a cherished recipe in your home!
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Ingredients
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
2/3 cup dark molasses
3/4 cup hot water (about 100°F)
1/2 cup butter, softened to room temperature
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange Icing
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2–3 Tablespoons orange juice
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt and pepper together until combined. Set aside. In a separate bowl or dish, whisk the molasses and hot water together.
- In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy – about 1 minute. Add the brown sugar and beat on high speed for 1 minute until creamed together fairly well. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a silicone spatula as needed. On medium-high speed, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl as needed. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions alternating with the hot water/molasses and mixing each addition just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing. Batter will be thin. Whisk out any big lumps.
- Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for around 50-60 minutes or until the gingerbread loaf is baked through. Allow to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack before removing from pan.
- Make the icing
- Whisk the confectioners’ sugar and orange juice together. Drizzle over cooled loaf.
Notes
- Recipe courtesy of https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/spiced-gingerbread-loaf/
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