Gingerbread Recipe

Introduction

This classic gingerbread loaf is rich, warmly spiced, and perfectly moist. Made with molasses and fresh ginger, it’s a comforting treat that’s easy to bake for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup molasses
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (use more if using unsalted butter)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 cups flour

Instructions

1. Step 1: Butter a 9×5-inch loaf pan and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the molasses with the butter cut into chunks.
3. Step 3: Add the boiling water to the bowl and stir until the butter is completely melted.
4. Step 4: Mix together the baking soda, salt, and ground ginger, then add this to the molasses mixture. It will bubble and thicken.
5. Step 5: Stir in the flour until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the loaf springs back when gently pressed.
7. Step 7: Let the gingerbread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely, or slice while warm if preferred.

Tips & Variations

• For a deeper flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the ginger.
• Use salted butter and reduce the salt in the recipe to balance flavors.
• Add chopped crystallized ginger or nuts for extra texture and zing.

Storage

Store the gingerbread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat slices gently in a microwave if you like it warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan size?

A 9×5-inch loaf pan is ideal for even baking, but if using a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness by testing if the loaf springs back when pressed.

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, dark brown sugar or maple syrup can be used, though the flavor will be slightly less robust and the texture may vary.

Gingerbread Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 111 reviews

This classic Gingerbread recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf enriched with rich molasses and warming ginger spice, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions. With a simple mix of common ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a homemade gingerbread that is tender, lightly spiced, and wonderfully aromatic.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 8–10 servings) 1x
• Category: Baking
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup molasses
• 5 tablespoons butter, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Dry Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (increase if using unsalted butter)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Butter a 9×5 inch loaf pan generously to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking.
3. Combine Molasses and Butter: In a mixing bowl, add the molasses and the butter chunks. Then pour the boiling water over them and stir until the butter is completely melted and the mixture is uniform.
4. Mix Dry Spices and Leavening: In a separate small bowl, combine the baking soda, salt, and ground ginger thoroughly.
5. Add Spices to Molasses Mixture: Stir the spice and baking soda mixture into the molasses mixture. It will bubble up and thicken due to the reaction between baking soda and the acidic molasses.
6. Add Flour: Gradually add the two cups of flour to the wet ingredients, stirring constantly until you achieve a smooth, well-combined batter without lumps.
7. Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the loaf springs back when gently pressed.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before removing it. Then, cool completely on a wire rack or slice and serve warm, as desired.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour to achieve a smooth batter.
• Adjust salt amount depending on whether your butter is salted or unsalted.
• Check the loaf for doneness at the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
• For a more intense ginger flavor, you can increase the ground ginger slightly or add a pinch of cinnamon.
• This gingerbread loaf keeps well stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Keywords: gingerbread, molasses loaf, spiced bread, holiday baking, ginger dessert