gingerbread bread loaf recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
gingerbread bread loaf recipe
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The Best gingerbread bread loaf recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite gingerbread bread loaf recipe. This classic treat is a staple in many households, especially during the holiday season. I remember making it with my mom when I was a kid, and now I love making it for my own family.

The aroma of ginger and spices wafting from the oven is just heavenly. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, but yields a delicious and impressive result. The best part?

It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special dinner or just a cozy night in with the family. My kids adore helping me mix the dough and shape the loaf, making it a fun and interactive experience for all of us. Plus, the health benefits of using whole wheat flour and incorporating plenty of spices make this recipe a guilt-free treat we can all enjoy together.

I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but this traditional recipe remains my go-to. The combination of molasses, brown sugar, and ginger creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the crumbly streusel topping – it adds just the right amount of crunch to each bite.

When I serve this at family gatherings or holiday parties, everyone raves about it. It’s truly a show-stopper! As an added bonus, this recipe makes excellent leftovers, which we always look forward to reheating for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.

Gingerbread Bread Loaf

Gingerbread Bread Loaf

4.7 from 839 votes

A moist and tender quick bread infused with warm gingerbread spices and molasses. Perfect for breakfast or as a holiday treat, this loaf fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time55 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 290 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
3/4 cup molasses
1 cup buttermilk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until evenly combined.
4Set the dry mixture aside.
5In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
6Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
7Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, then mix in the molasses until the batter is smooth and dark.
8The mixture may look slightly separated, but that is fine.
9Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk.
10Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition.
11Do not overmix.
12Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
13Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
14The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
15Let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
16Then turn it out onto the rack and cool completely before slicing.

🔧Equipment

9×5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric mixer
Rubber spatula
Cooling rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 290 kcal🧈Total Fat: 9g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 310mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 30g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a deeper spice flavor, toast the spices in a dry pan for 1 minute before adding. Store the loaf wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Gingerbread Bread Loaf Works

This gingerbread bread loaf recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a comforting treat on a chilly evening. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Simply reheat slices as needed by wrapping them in foil and warming them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Bread Loaf

What type of flour should I use for this recipe?

For a more traditional gingerbread flavor and texture, I recommend using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup?

While you can experiment with other sweeteners, keep in mind that molasses provides a distinct flavor and consistency that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients.

How long does the dough need to rise?

Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour in a warm place, or until it has doubled in size.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking the loaf.

What’s the purpose of the streusel topping?

The streusel topping adds texture and crunch to each bite while also helping to contain the molasses flavor within the loaf.

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