Classic Gingerbread

Posted in Recipe Collections / Grammie’s Recipes: From the Kitchen of Elsie Damren
Classic Gingerbread
There's something about gingerbread that instantly warms the soul and fills the home with a sense of comfort and joy. This classic recipe brings all the traditional flavors of gingerbread to the table, with a soft, moist texture that's simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy night in, a festive gathering, or just because you deserve a treat, this gingerbread will transport you to a world of warm spices and sweet satisfaction.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup shortening
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2½ cups flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ginger
  • ½ tsp cloves
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 cup hot water

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Start by melting the shortening in a 3 or 4-quart saucepan. Once melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool.

  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add sugar and egg to the cooled shortening, beating well to combine.

  3. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and spices to ensure even distribution.

  4. Combine: Stir in the molasses and hot water to the sugar mixture, blending smoothly. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until the mixture is well incorporated.

  5. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9” square pan and bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. Cool: Allow the gingerbread to cool in the pan before serving to ensure it sets properly and retains its moist texture.

Gingerbread: A Timeless Treat with a Spiced Twist

Steeped in tradition and rich with spices, gingerbread is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey through history, evoking memories of festive seasons, cozy winter evenings, and the joy of baking with loved ones. This gingerbread recipe offers a classic take on the timeless treat, with a perfectly moist texture and a harmonious blend of spices that warm the heart and soul.

The Spice of Life

The essence of gingerbread lies in its spice blend – a careful balance of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves that can transport you to a world of comfort and warmth. Each spice not only adds depth to the flavor but also brings its own set of aromas that fill your kitchen with the unmistakable scent of homemade joy.

  • Ginger: The star of the show, ginger adds a warm, spicy kick that is both invigorating and comforting.
  • Cinnamon: Sweet and woody, cinnamon complements ginger’s heat with its own soft, enveloping warmth.
  • Cloves: With their intense, pungent flavor, cloves round out the spice blend, adding a depth that makes the gingerbread irresistibly complex.

A Canvas for Creativity

While the traditional gingerbread recipe is a delight in its own right, it also serves as a versatile base for creative twists. Consider adding:

  • Orange zest for a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness.
  • Black pepper for an unexpected bite that enhances the ginger’s fiery quality.
  • Molasses for an even deeper, caramel-like sweetness and a wonderfully moist texture.

Gingerbread Through the Seasons

Though often associated with winter holidays, gingerbread’s appeal is not limited to a single season. By adjusting the spices or adding seasonal ingredients, you can transform this recipe to suit any occasion:

  • Spring: Add lemon zest and a lemon glaze topping for a fresh, zesty twist.
  • Summer: Serve with a side of fresh, macerated strawberries for a sweet, tangy contrast.
  • Autumn: Incorporate pumpkin puree and a pinch of nutmeg for a hearty, seasonal delight.

Crafting the Perfect Gingerbread

To ensure your gingerbread is as delightful to make as it is to eat, keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the gingerbread tender.
  • Moisture is Key: The molasses not only adds flavor but also moisture, so be careful not to substitute it with ingredients that might dry out the cake.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the gingerbread to cool completely before slicing to let the flavors meld together and the texture to set properly.

Gingerbread: A Tale of Comfort and Joy

As you embark on baking this gingerbread, remember that each ingredient adds its own chapter to the story, from the warmth of the spices to the sweetness of the molasses. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience – a celebration of flavors, aromas, and the timeless joy of baking.

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Servings Per Recipe: 16
  • Calories: 386

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 5.6g (7% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 1.6g (8% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 23mg (8% DV)
  • Sodium: 1267mg (55% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 85.4g (31% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 7.7g (28% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 7.3g
  • Protein: 8.6g
  • Vitamin D: 2mcg (10% DV)
  • Calcium: 1606mg (124% DV)
  • iron: 8mg (44% DV)
  • Potassium: 3788mg (81% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.