This Christmas Gingerbread Loaf is a moist, spiced treat filled with the rich flavors of molasses and warm spices. Topped with a sweet glaze and festive garnishes, it’s perfect for holiday mornings, tea time, or gifting to loved ones.
Ingredients:
The Gingerbread Loaf:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
The Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish:
- Red-and-green holiday sprinkles
- Crystallized ginger pieces (optional)
- A dusting of powdered sugar
Preparation:
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
5: Bake the Gingerbread Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6: Cool and Glaze
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the top with red-and-green holiday sprinkles, crystallized ginger pieces (if using), and a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Variations:
- Orange Gingerbread Loaf: Add 1 tsp orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist.
- Nutty Gingerbread: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Cooking Notes:
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Avoid overmixing: Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Stir just until combined.
- Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Festive Morning Treat: Serve warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
- Gift Idea: Wrap in decorative parchment paper and tie with a holiday ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: The flavors deepen after a day, making this loaf even better the next day.
- Store properly: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Baking Time:
50-60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 190mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use blackstrap molasses?
A: Yes, but it will give the loaf a slightly stronger and more robust flavor. Regular molasses is milder and sweeter.
Q: Can I make mini loaves?
A: Absolutely! Divide the batter among mini loaf pans and reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes.
Q: Can I add frosting instead of glaze?
A: Yes, a cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this loaf.
Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion:
This Christmas Gingerbread Loaf is a heartwarming holiday favorite that combines rich molasses, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness. Whether served as a morning treat or a festive dessert, this loaf is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. Its easy preparation and delightful flavor make it a go-to recipe for all your Christmas gatherings. Enjoy every spiced slice!
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Christmas Gingerbread Loaf: A Warm, Festive Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread Loaf:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Red-and-green holiday sprinkles
- Crystallized ginger pieces (optional)
- A dusting of powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation:
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
5: Bake the Gingerbread Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6: Cool and Glaze
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the top with red-and-green holiday sprinkles, crystallized ginger pieces (if using), and a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Avoid overmixing: Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Stir just until combined.
- Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 190mg
- Protein: 3g