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–+ servings
Gingerbread
Gingerbread is a classic spiced cake with roots tracing back to medieval Europe, where ginger and other warming spices were prized for both flavor and preservation. This simple, old-fashioned version highlights the deep, rich sweetness of molasses paired with aromatic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. The result is a moist, tender crumb with a comforting, slightly earthy flavor that feels especially fitting in cooler months. Unlike modern frosted cakes, this gingerbread is rustic and straightforward, often enjoyed plain or with a touch of whipped cream. Its enduring appeal lies in its balance of sweetness and spice, making it a timeless staple for home bakers.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American, British
Servings 8
Calories 240 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup shortening
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup molasses
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or sour milk)
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp mixed spices (cloves, nutmeg, allspice)
  • 1 ¼ cups flour (not sifted)
  • ½ tsp baking soda (dissolved in a small amount of cold milk, added last)
  • ½ cup nuts (chopped)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Cream together the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Egg

  • Beat in the egg until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Molasses

  • Mix in the molasses until smooth.

Step 4: Add Liquids

  • Stir in the buttermilk (or sour milk).

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, mix flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and mixed spices.

Step 6: Mix Batter

  • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
  • Fold in 1/2 cup chopped nuts evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Add Baking Soda

  • Dissolve baking soda in a small amount of cold milk and stir into the batter last together with the nuts.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

  • Pour batter into a greased baking pan.

Step 9: Bake

  • Bake in a moderate oven (350°F / 175°C) for about 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

  • Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips

  • Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Add raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture.
  • Substitute butter for shortening for richer flavor.
  • Use dark molasses for a deeper, more robust taste.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
  • Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra aroma.
  • Bake in muffin tins for individual portions.
  • Pair with a warm beverage like coffee or tea.

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword classic dessert, comfort food, fall baking, gingerbread, molasses, spiced cake, vintage
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