Imagine a slice of warm, spicy gingerbread that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of nostalgia and comfort. This Old Fashioned Gingerbread Loaf isn't just a recipe—it's a time machine to cozy winter afternoons, childhood memories, and the kind of baking that makes your heart smile. With its rich molasses depth, warming spices, and perfectly moist texture, this gingerbread loaf is about to become your new favorite treat that bridges generations of baking tradition.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 80 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Pour in the molasses and mix until fully incorporated, creating a smooth, dark batter.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better ingredient incorporation.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense loaf.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test, but remember that a few moist crumbs are okay—they ensure a tender loaf.
- Spice Freshness: Use fresh ground spices for the most vibrant ginger and cinnamon flavor. Old spices can taste flat.
- Cool Completely: Let the loaf cool entirely before slicing to help it set and prevent crumbling.
- Storage Tip: Wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 342kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 40mg
