Introduction
Welcome to the world of aromatic baking with this exquisite Gingered Spice Bread, specially crafted for bread machine enthusiasts and lovers of warm, spicy flavors. This recipe, sourced from Fleischmann’s Yeast Company and shared on Love With Recipes, offers a delightful blend of fragrant spices, tender crumb, and a subtle sweetness that makes every slice an indulgent experience. Whether you’re preparing a comforting breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or a festive treat for loved ones, this ginger-spiced loaf will elevate your baking repertoire with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the efficiency of the bread machine. It takes the guesswork out of kneading and baking, allowing you to enjoy a perfectly risen, soft loaf with a delightful crust. The combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates an inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen and entice everyone to gather around the table. Plus, you can customize it by adding raisins or nuts for extra texture and sweetness, making it versatile and adaptable to your preferences.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find an in-depth exploration of the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, baking tips, nutritional insights, and creative ideas to enhance your Gingered Spice Bread experience. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together—your home bakery awaits!
Time
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Machine Mixing, Kneading, and Rising: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 45 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Bread Machine: A 1.5 lb loaf capacity bread maker with a basic or white bread cycle
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement
- Mixing Bowls: Optional, for pre-mixing ingredients or adjusting dough
- Rubber Spatula or Spoon: For scraping ingredients or adjusting dough consistency
- Cooling Rack: To cool the bread evenly and prevent sogginess
- Kitchen Scale (Optional): For precise measurement of ingredients, especially flour and spices
Tags
- Bread
- Spiced Bread
- Gingerbread
- Breakfast
- Homemade Bread
- Holiday Baking
- Simple Recipes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 1 loaf, sliced into 10 to 12 pieces, depending on your preferred slice thickness. Each serving is approximately one slice, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a wholesome snack or breakfast component.
Difficulty Level
Easy — Suitable for bakers of all skill levels, especially those using bread machines. The process involves simple ingredient assembly and minimal intervention during baking, making it accessible and straightforward.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Contains |
|---|---|
| Gluten | Yes – from bread flour |
| Eggs | Yes |
| Dairy | Butter and margarine (may contain milk derivatives) |
| Soy | Potentially, depending on margarine used |
Note: For allergy-sensitive diets, consider substituting dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, and ensure your bread machine yeast and margarine are free from cross-contamination.
Dietary Preference
Vegetarian. This recipe does not include any animal-derived ingredients other than eggs and dairy, making it suitable for lacto-vegetarians.
For vegan adaptations, substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs, use vegan margarine or oils, and confirm yeast compatibility.
Course
Breakfast, Snack, Brunch, Holiday Dessert, Tea Time
Cuisine
Homemade American Baking, Spiced Bread Variations, Holiday Baking
Ingredients in Tables
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | 3/4 cup (6 fl oz) | Warm to approximately 110°F (43°C) |
| Molasses | 3 tablespoons | Use unsulfured molasses for best flavor |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted or softened |
| Margarine | 3 tablespoons | Softened |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | For flavor balance |
| Bread Flour | 3 cups (375 grams) | All-purpose flour can be substituted, but bread flour yields better gluten structure |
| Ground Ginger | 1 teaspoon | Adjust for spiciness preference |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/4 teaspoon | For warmth and depth |
| Ground Cloves | 1/4 teaspoon | Use fresh or substitute with allspice for variation |
| Yeast (Bread Machine Yeast) | 2 teaspoons | Active dry or instant yeast; check your bread machine’s specifications |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by assembling all your ingredients. Measure out the milk, molasses, egg, butter, margarine, salt, flour, spices, and yeast with precision. Use a digital kitchen scale for flour if possible, to ensure accuracy, which is key for bread texture and rise. Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C); it should be comfortably warm to the touch but not hot enough to scald or kill the yeast. This temperature activates the yeast effectively without compromising its viability.
Step 2: Adding Ingredients to the Bread Machine
Follow your bread machine manufacturer’s instructions for ingredient order, typically starting with liquids. Pour the warm milk into the bread pan, then add molasses, egg, melted butter, margarine, and salt. Carefully top with the bread flour, ensuring it covers the liquids completely. Create a small well in the center of the flour but do not dig too deep—this is where you’ll add the yeast. Add the yeast last, directly into the well, making sure it does not contact the liquids immediately to ensure proper activation during the kneading cycle.
Step 3: Setting the Bread Machine
Place the bread pan into the machine, securely lock it in place, and select the “Basic” or “White Bread” cycle. Set the crust color to “Light” or “Medium” depending on your preference. For a softer crust, opt for a “Light” setting; for a more toasted exterior, choose “Medium” or “Dark”. Start the cycle and allow the machine to begin its work.
Step 4: Monitoring the Dough
After 5 minutes of mixing, open the lid briefly to check the dough’s consistency. The dough should form a soft, slightly tacky ball around the kneading paddle. It should be elastic and smooth, not sticky or dry. If adjustments are needed, close the lid and allow the machine to continue kneading. If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of warm milk; if too sticky, add a teaspoon of bread flour. Repeat as necessary to achieve the ideal texture.
Step 5: Baking and Cooling
Once the cycle completes, carefully remove the bread pan from the machine. Gently invert the loaf onto a cooling rack and allow it to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps set the crumb and prevents the bread from becoming gummy or squishy. During cooling, the crust will firm up beautifully, and the aroma of ginger and spices will permeate your kitchen.
Step 6: Optional Add-ins
If you desire a raisin or nut variation, add 1/2 to 3/4 cup of raisins or chopped nuts during the final few minutes of kneading, as directed by your bread machine’s instructions. This ensures even distribution without overmixing, preserving the integrity of the add-ins and preventing them from sinking to the bottom.
Step 7: Serving and Enjoying
Slice the bread once cooled to your preferred thickness. Serve warm with a pat of honey butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam. The bread’s spicy aroma and tender crumb make it an excellent choice for breakfast, tea time, or holiday celebrations. Store leftovers in an airtight container or bread box for up to three days, or freeze slices for longer preservation.
Preparation Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh (not expired) for optimal rising. Fresh spices will provide a robust flavor profile.
- Temperature Control: Keep the liquids at the recommended temperature to activate yeast properly. Too hot can kill the yeast; too cold can inhibit activation.
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to tweak the amount of ginger, cinnamon, or cloves based on your flavor preference—more ginger for a spicy kick or less for a subtle warmth.
- Adding Sweeteners: Molasses not only adds flavor but also contributes to the bread’s moistness. You can substitute honey or brown sugar if desired.
- Experimenting with Flours: Incorporate whole wheat or spelt flour for added fiber and nutrients. Note that this may slightly affect the rise and texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx. 1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 123 kcal |
| Total Fat | 2.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 18.6 mg |
| Sodium | 131.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g |
| Sugars | 2.2 g |
| Protein | 3.4 g |
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure Proper Rising: Avoid opening the lid during the initial rising phase to maintain optimal temperature and humidity for yeast activity.
- Customizing Spices: For a deeper spice flavor, toast the ground spices lightly in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes before adding to the dough.
- Enhancing Aroma: Adding a small amount of freshly grated ginger or a dash of nutmeg can further boost the aromatic profile.
- Crust Preferences: For a softer crust, wrap the loaf in a clean towel immediately after baking. For a crunchier crust, brush with melted butter or egg wash before baking.
- Storage Tips: Keep the bread in a paper bag or bread box to maintain crust crispness. Freeze slices individually for quick toasting later.
Add-ons
- Raisins, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries added during the final kneading stage
- A drizzle of honey or glaze for a sweet finish
- Swirls of cream cheese or cinnamon sugar layered before shaping
Side Dishes
- Sweet butter or honey butter spread
- Fresh fruit preserves or jams
- Cheese platter with mild cheeses like cream cheese or brie
- Warm spiced apple compote or pear compote
- Herbal teas, chai, or coffee to complement the spices
Improvements
- Incorporate whole wheat or spelt flour for added nutrition
- Add chopped crystallized ginger for intensified ginger flavor
- Replace some of the sugar with maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness
- Experiment with different spice ratios to customize flavor intensity
- Make mini loaves for gifting or portion control
Save and Store
Leftover Gingered Spice Bread can be stored in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or toast slices for a crispy finish. For best results, slice the bread before freezing, which allows you to enjoy fresh-tasting portions without thawing the entire loaf each time.
FAQ
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes. Substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seed with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes until gel-like. Use vegan margarine or oil instead of butter and ensure your yeast is vegan-certified. Adjust liquids as needed to maintain dough consistency.
Can I adapt this recipe for a larger loaf?
Absolutely. Increase ingredient quantities proportionally, but be mindful of your bread machine’s maximum capacity. For a 2 lb loaf, adjust to fit the machine’s specifications and select a suitable cycle. Always check dough consistency and adjust with flour or liquids as needed.
How do I get a softer crust?
Wrap the cooled loaf in a clean towel immediately after baking or brush with melted butter before baking. Using a “soft” crust setting (if available) on your bread machine also helps. Storing in a bread box or paper bag maintains moisture for a softer finish.
Can I add other spices?
Definitely. Nutmeg, allspice, or a pinch of cardamom can enhance the aromatic profile. Start with small amounts and adjust to your taste preference. Toasting spices briefly before adding can intensify their flavor.
Conclusion
This Gingered Spice Bread from Love With Recipes combines the comforting warmth of spices with the ease of bread machine baking. Its fragrant aroma, tender crumb, and versatile flavor make it a standout addition to your homemade bread collection. Whether enjoyed plain, with spreads, or incorporated into festive brunches, this recipe delivers exceptional results with minimal effort. Experiment with add-ins and spice levels to tailor the loaf perfectly to your palate, and enjoy the delightful sensory experience of freshly baked, aromatic bread filling your home.
References
- Fleischmann’s Yeast Company. (n.d.). Classic Yeast Bread Recipes. Fleischmann’s Yeast Official Website.
- King Arthur Baking. (2020). Spiced Breads and Holiday Baking Tips. King Arthur Flour Resources.