Gingerbread Loaf

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread loaf wafting through the kitchen. When I was a child, my family would gather around the warm oven, eagerly waiting for that golden loaf to emerge, its rich spices promising a delightful treat. The Gingerbread Loaf is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy during the cozy fall season. Whether it’s served at holiday gatherings or enjoyed with a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon, this loaf is a heartwarming addition to any occasion.

As the holidays approach, I can’t help but reminisce about the times spent with family, sharing slices of this fragrant loaf topped with a creamy icing. It’s the perfect balance of spice and sweetness, with each bite evoking cherished memories of laughter and good company. I love how versatile this recipe can be; you can dress it up with festive decorations or keep it simple, allowing the flavors to shine. Baking this Gingerbread Loaf is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating a sense of togetherness, making it a beloved tradition in my home.

Main Ingredients for Gingerbread Loaf

The ingredients in this Gingerbread Loaf work harmoniously together to create a deliciously spiced treat. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• All-purpose flour: The base of the loaf, providing structure and texture.
• Baking soda: Essential for leavening, helping the loaf rise and become light.
• Ground ginger: The star ingredient that gives the loaf its signature flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the spice profile.
• Allspice: A blend of flavors that enhances the overall taste.
• Unsalted butter: Contributes richness and moisture.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
• Dark molasses: Deepens the flavor and provides moisture.
• Hot water: Helps to dissolve the molasses and create a smooth batter.
• Powdered sugar: Used for the icing, making it sweet and creamy.
• Cream cheese: Adds richness to the icing.
• Lemon juice: Balances the sweetness of the icing with a hint of acidity.
• Candy Melts: Optional decoration for a festive touch.

Recipe Directions for Gingerbread Loaf

Baking the perfect Gingerbread Loaf is a delightful experience. The steps are straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to shine. Let’s dive into the simple yet rewarding process of creating this delicious loaf.

1. Preheat your oven to 325℉. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking or baking spray to ensure your loaf comes out easily.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt. These dry ingredients will create a flavorful foundation for your loaf. Make sure they are well mixed to distribute the spices evenly.

3. In the bowl of your mixer, add the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar. Beat on high speed using your paddle attachment for about 1 minute until it’s creamy and light. This step is vital for incorporating air into the mixture.

4. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the buttery mixture. Beat together for another 30 seconds until well blended. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary to ensure everything is combined.

5. In another smaller bowl, whisk together the dark molasses with the hot water. This mixture will add moisture and enhance the flavor of your loaf.

6. Now, it’s time to combine your mixtures. Start by adding a third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat on low speed until well incorporated. Then, pour in a third of the molasses mixture and continue mixing. Repeat this process, alternating between the flour and molasses mixtures. Be careful; the batter will be quite thin, but that’s perfectly fine!

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your loaf is ready.

8. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan until it reaches room temperature. This step prevents the loaf from sinking when you remove it.

9. For the icing, add the powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the bowl of your mixer. Beat on high speed using the whisk attachment until smooth. The icing should be thick enough to spread easily over the cooled loaf.

10. If you’d like to decorate, melt the red Candy Melts and green Candy Melts in the microwave. Typically, I microwave them for 1 minute, stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds. Drizzle the melted candy over the loaf for a festive touch.

11. Finally, cut the loaf into slices and serve. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Gingerbread Loaf!

Change It Up

If you’re looking to add your personal touch to the Gingerbread Loaf, here are some fun tips:

• Storage: Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for 5 to 7 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
• Pairing: This loaf pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a mid-afternoon snack.
• Decorating: Feel free to get creative with the icing. You can use different colors for a festive look!
• Add-ins: Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Accompaniments for Gingerbread Loaf

When it comes to serving your Gingerbread Loaf, the options are endless! Here’s how to make the most of this delightful dessert:

• With a Cup of Tea: Enjoy a slice with a steaming cup of herbal tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Holiday Gatherings: This loaf is perfect for holiday parties. Slice it up and serve on a platter for guests to enjoy.
• Brunch Delight: Pair it with other brunch items like fruit salad or yogurt for a complete meal.
• Storage Tips: Keep it in the fridge to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment.
• Seasonal Pairing: This loaf is especially delightful during the fall and winter seasons, complementing festive decorations and cozy settings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Gingerbread Loaf is a delightful blend of spices and sweetness that captures the essence of the holiday season. It’s a treat that brings warmth and joy to any table. I encourage you to try baking this loaf and share it with your loved ones. There’s nothing quite like the memories created around a homemade dessert. Make this special loaf today and enjoy the smiles it brings!

Gingerbread Loaf

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Gingerbread Loaf. It's moist, spiced, and topped with creamy icing, making it a perfect holiday treat that everyone will love. Bake this easy weeknight delight and share the warmth with your loved ones!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 2 teaspoons Ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon Allspice
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• ½ cup Unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• ⅓ cup Dark brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large Egg (at room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• ¾ cup Dark molasses
• ¾ cup Hot water (from tap)
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 4 ounces Cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 ounces Red Candy Melts
• 2 ounces Green Candy Melts

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 325℉. Coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking or baking spray. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice and salt. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of your mixer, add the butter and brown sugar, and beat on high speed using your paddle attachment, for about 1 minute. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat together for another 30 seconds or until well blended, scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
4. Meanwhile in another smaller bowl whisk together the molasses with the hot water.
5. Add a third of the flour mixture and beat on low until well incorporated, then ⅓ of the molasses/water and continue beating. Repeat this a couple more times, alternating between flour and molasses mixture. Please note that the batter will be quite thin.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes or until baked through. To test if the loaf is baked through, insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf, and if it comes out clean, it is done.
7. Allow the bread to cool until it comes to room temperature in the pan, before removing it from the pan.
8. To make the icing, add the powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract and lemon juice to the bowl of your mixer and beat on high using the whisk attachment until smooth. Spread the icing over the loaf, the icing should be quite thick, so it should be easy to spread.
9. Melt the red and green Candy Melts, if using, in the microwave. I usually microwave them for 1 min, stir then microwave for another 30 seconds and they should be melted. Drizzle the chocolate using a teaspoon over the gingerbread loaf.
10. Cut into slices and serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: All ovens are different, so the baking time could vary quite a bit.
• Tip 2: Do not open the oven door while the bread is baking, this could cause the middle of the loaf to sink.
• Tip 3: Store the gingerbread loaf in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap, in the fridge for 5 to 7 days.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!