As the chill of winter sets in and the holidays approach, warming up your kitchen with the rich scents of spices and molasses is a must. This Spiced Gingerbread Loaf w/ Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese brings together all the cozy flavors we love, creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for festive gatherings or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. The combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg not only delivers a comforting aroma but also a flavor profile that is irresistibly delicious. The addition of a creamy vanilla bean cream cheese frosting elevates this loaf, making it a delightful dessert anyone can enjoy.
Not only is this gingerbread loaf simple to prepare, but its versatility makes it a fantastic option for various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a holiday dessert or a cozy snack, this loaf fits the bill. The moist texture, rich taste, and sweet frosting make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s bound to leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Follow along as we take you through this easy recipe, ensuring your baking experience is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Spiced Gingerbread Loaf
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Festive Flavor: The rich blend of spices creates a warm, inviting flavor. A real treat during the winter months!
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or a delightful gift to share with others.
- Creamy Frosting: The vanilla bean cream cheese topping adds a luxurious finish that everyone will love.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Gather all the necessary tools, which include two mixing bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients separately, a whisk for blending, and a spatula for folding the batter. Having a measuring cup handy for precise ingredient measurements is also crucial.
Make sure your butter is melted and your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Setting them out ahead of time can help if you forget to take them out earlier. Also, don’t shy away from using high-quality spices; they make a noticeable difference in flavor. With everything ready, you’ll be all set to create this delicious Spiced Gingerbread Loaf!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it sets the stage for even baking. While the oven preheats, take your loaf pan and grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will ensure the loaf comes out effortlessly once baked and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt. These dry ingredients will come together to create a flavorful foundation for your loaf. Ensure they’re well combined to distribute the spices evenly – this will enhance the overall taste of your gingerbread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture not only adds moisture to the loaf but also enriches it with sweet and spicy flavors that are quintessential to a gingerbread treat.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed, pour this mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Carefully stir until just combined. Keep in mind that overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so a few lumps are perfectly fine. Aim for a gently blended batter that will rise beautifully as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Place the loaf in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the loaf is cooling, it’s time to prepare the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth, then gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste. Mix until it reaches your desired creaminess, adjusting with heavy cream as necessary to achieve a spreadable consistency. This creamy topping is the perfect complement to your spiced loaf!
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Once your gingerbread loaf is completely cooled, generously spread the creamy vanilla bean frosting over the top. Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired for added warmth and flavor. Slice into pieces and serve either slightly chilled or at room temperature for an unforgettable treat!
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and protein.
- Vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini for moisture, and a nutrient boost.
- Spices: Experiment with cardamom or cloves for an exciting twist on traditional flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that your loaf cools completely before applying the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Using fresh spices makes all the difference in flavor; consider shopping from bulk bins for freshness.
- Allow the batter to rest for 5 minutes before baking to help bloom the spices, enhancing their flavors.
- If you plan to store the loaf, freeze it unfrosted for optimal texture and enjoy it later!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the gingerbread loaf with a cup of hot apple cider or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve alongside soft butter for those who prefer a simpler taste over the indulgent frosting.
Tips
- Consider using an electric mixer for the cream cheese frosting to achieve a super smooth consistency.
- Storing your gingerbread loaf in an airtight container will keep it fresh for up to four days.
- Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Make an unfrosted gingerbread loaf and slice it for simple holiday gifts, wrapping each in a festive cloth.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! The gingerbread loaf can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container once it’s completely cooled.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it unfrosted.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add extra nutrition. Just note that the texture may vary slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion
This Spiced Gingerbread Loaf w/ Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese is not just a holiday treat — it’s a delicious way to bring warmth and joy into your home all season long. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and the flavorful cream cheese frosting, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a new family favorite. Whether it’s for a festive celebration or just a cozy day at home, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep close. We encourage you to try it out, share your experiences, and don’t forget to explore the variations you can create. Happy baking!
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Spiced Gingerbread Loaf w/ Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Description
This Spiced Gingerbread Loaf brings warmth and joy into your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45–55 minutes.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add in powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste, adjusting with heavy cream as needed.
- Once cooled, spread the frosting generously over the loaf and serve.
Notes
Using fresh spices significantly enhances flavor; consider shopping from bulk bins for freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g