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Gingerbread Loaf

Moist Gingerbread Loaf: Perfect for Cozy Holiday Mornings

This Gingerbread Loaf is perfect for cozy holiday mornings, featuring warm spices and a moist texture.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Loaf
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt Can reduce or omit if sensitive to sodium.
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger Consider fresh minced ginger for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg Can substitute with allspice.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves Omit for a lighter taste.
  • 1 large egg (room temperature) Flax egg as a vegan alternative works well.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor complexity.
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) Can use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar (packed) Dark brown sugar enhances flavor.
  • ¾ cup molasses Choose unsulfured for mellow sweetness.
  • ½ cup buttermilk (room temperature) Can replace with milk plus vinegar.
For the Frosting
  • ½ cup brown butter Using standard melted butter will lose richness.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Full-fat produces creamiest texture.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted) Cornstarch can help stabilize.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) Almond extract gives a unique twist.
  • pinch salt (for frosting) Balances sweetness.

Equipment

  • Loaf Pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • whisk
  • Parchment paper
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Loaf
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  4. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool the loaf in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. For frosting, brown the butter, then mix with cream cheese and sifted powdered sugar until smooth.
  9. Once cooled, frost the loaf generously on top and sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness. Can freeze for up to three months.

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