Classic Gingerbread Recipe for the Perfect Holiday Treat

5 stars
4.94 (16)
Classic Gingerbread Recipe for the Perfect Holiday Treat
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 21, 2023

Bake up a fragrant and flavorful gingerbread this holiday season with this classic recipe. This sweet and spicy treat is perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or sharing with friends and family. Made with a blend of warm spices and molasses, this gingerbread is sure to fill your home with the aroma of the holiday season. Don't forget to decorate it with sweet icing and festive sprinkles for a festive touch.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 egg

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the molasses, hot water, and baking soda to the butter mixture and mix well.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and nutmeg.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
  6. Beat in the egg until the batter is smooth and well blended.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  8. Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the gingerbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Once cooled, you can decorate the gingerbread with icing or serve it as is.
  11. Slice and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Gingerbread dates back to ancient times and was first made in Europe over 1000 years ago.
  • In medieval Europe, gingerbread was believed to have medicinal properties and was often used to soothe digestion.
  • The tradition of making gingerbread houses began in Germany in the 16th century.
  • Gingerbread is a popular holiday treat in many countries, including the United States, Germany, and England.