Gingerbread with Hot Caramel Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Delight in the comforting, rich flavors of this Gingerbread with Hot Caramel Sauce, a perfect treat for any time of year but especially heartwarming during the holidays. This gingerbread is wonderfully moist and aromatic, with a blend of spices that infuse warmth into every bite. When drizzled with the luscious, warm caramel sauce, it transforms into an indulgent dessert that pairs exquisitely with coffee or can be served at brunch, offering an enticing alternative to sweet rolls. Whether you choose to savor it with a dollop of whipped cream or just by itself, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Servings | 12 servings |
| Calories | 415.2 per serving |
| Rating | 4/5 (1 review) |
| Keywords | Low Protein, < 60 Mins |
Ingredients
The following ingredients come together to create a delightful gingerbread that is both comforting and indulgent. The caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness, making it an unforgettable treat.
Gingerbread Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Dark molasses |
| 2 | Baking soda |
| 1 | Ground cinnamon |
| 1 | Ground ginger |
| 1/4 | Ground nutmeg |
| 1/2 | Granulated sugar |
| 1/2 | Unsalted butter, softened |
| 2 | All-purpose flour |
| 1 | Boiling water |
| 1 | Eggs |
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Powdered sugar |
| 1/3 | Light brown sugar |
| 1/3 | Granulated sugar |
| 3 | Unsalted butter |
| 1 | Vanilla extract |
| 1/4 | Salt |
| 1 | Ground nutmeg |
| 1 | Boiling water |
Nutritional Information
This gingerbread, while indulgent, contains a balanced mix of nutrients that allow you to enjoy it without the guilt.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 415.2 |
| Total Fat | 13.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 64.9 mg |
| Sodium | 364.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 70.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugars | 47.4 g |
| Protein | 3.6 g |
Instructions
Creating this delightful gingerbread and its accompanying hot caramel sauce is an enjoyable process that allows the warm spices to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect outcome.
Step 1: Prepare the Gingerbread Batter
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of dark molasses, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir the mixture until the baking soda is fully dissolved in the molasses, which will help create a light texture in your gingerbread.
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Next, add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of boiling water into the bowl. Mix everything together until a smooth batter forms, ensuring there are no lumps. The boiling water will help to activate the molasses and create a beautifully moist gingerbread.
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Now, separate the egg yolks from the whites. Stir in the beaten egg yolks into the batter, combining them thoroughly for a rich flavor and consistency.
Step 2: Whip Egg Whites and Combine
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In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is crucial, as the whipped egg whites will add air to the batter, contributing to a fluffy texture. Once whipped, gently fold the egg whites into the gingerbread batter, being careful not to deflate them.
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Prepare a greased ring mold or bundt pan by lightly coating it with cooking spray or butter. Pour the gingerbread batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Gingerbread
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled pan into the oven and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking process allows the gingerbread to rise beautifully while developing a lovely crust.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
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Once baked, remove the gingerbread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Carefully turn it out onto a cake stand or a serving platter and let it cool completely.
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Before serving, dust the top of the cooled gingerbread with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation.
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Caramel Sauce
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In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1/3 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Add in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugars are completely dissolved.
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Once the sugars have melted, gradually stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
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Slowly pour in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring constantly as you do so. This step may cause the mixture to bubble vigorously, but it will settle down. Continue to cook the sauce for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve Your Gingerbread
- To serve, slice the gingerbread into individual portions and drizzle each slice generously with the hot caramel sauce. For an added touch of indulgence, consider serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
This Gingerbread with Hot Caramel Sauce is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience, providing warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy brunches, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. The combination of spices and the richness of the caramel sauce create a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible, making it a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!
