Description
This moist and aromatic loaf boasts a medley of spices that evoke nostalgia and warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to remove lumps and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the loaf rise to perfection.
- 1 tsp ground ginger – Essential for that classic gingerbread warmth.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a sweet and spicy depth.
- ¼ tsp ground cloves – A little goes a long way with this strong spice.
- ¼ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – For richness and tenderness.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds a molasses-like sweetness.
- ½ cup molasses – This is what gives gingerbread its signature deep color and robust flavor.
- 1 egg – Helps bind the ingredients.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Keeps the loaf moist and adds a slight tang.
Instructions
- To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan adequately using butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking. For extra ease, you might opt to line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper; this will make removing the loaf a breeze once it’s baked.
- In a medium bowl, start the process by sifting together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Sifting not only removes lumps but also evenly distributes the spices, preventing clumping and ensuring a smooth batter. Set this bowl aside while we focus on the wet ingredients.
- In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together. Mix for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, leading to a light texture in your loaf.
- Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add in the molasses and mix until well combined. The rich flavor of molasses is what gives gingerbread its signature taste. Following this, add the egg and continue to beat until everything is smoothly incorporated, creating a rich and inviting mixture.
- Now, it’s time to alternate adding your dry mixture into the wet mixture. Begin by adding about a third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the buttermilk. Repeat this process until both the dry ingredients and buttermilk are fully integrated, finishing with the dry mixture. This alternating method helps keep the batter smooth and well mixed.
- Carefully pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure an even surface. Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean. This is where your kitchen fills with the aromatic scents of ginger and spices!
- While the loaf cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. You want the mixture to be smooth and pourable, so adjust the milk accordingly to achieve your desired consistency. Once the loaf is completely cooled, generously drizzle the icing over the top. The result is a beautiful and inviting finish that draws everyone in.
Notes
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting; this helps them mix better. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the loaf moist and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 3 g