Sticky Gingerbread with Apple Surprise
If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that’s both heartwarming and deliciously moist, this Sticky Gingerbread with Apple Surprise is your perfect match. This recipe has been a cherished family favorite for years, boasting a sticky, moist texture that maintains a light, airy crumb without being heavy or stodgy. Although its origins are a bit of a mystery, the delightful blend of spices and tender apples make it a timeless treat. Perfectly suited for any occasion, this gingerbread will surely become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire. 🍎🍰
Ingredients
- 150g butter (unsalted, for melting)
- 175g light brown sugar (for sweetness and depth)
- 2 tablespoons black treacle (for rich flavor and color)
- 225g plain flour (the base of the batter)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (for leavening)
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (for additional lift)
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger (for that classic gingerbread kick)
- 150ml milk (to combine everything smoothly)
- 1 large egg (to bind the ingredients)
- 2 dessert apples (peeled, cored, and diced for the surprise)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent apple browning and add a hint of tang)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tin:
Begin by greasing a deep 9-inch square cake tin and lining it with greaseproof paper or baking parchment. This will ensure that your sticky gingerbread can be easily removed after baking and prevents any sticking issues. -
Melt the Ingredients:
In a saucepan over low heat, gently melt the butter, light brown sugar, and black treacle together. Stir occasionally until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Once melted, set this mixture aside to cool slightly. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
While your butter mixture is cooling, sift together the plain flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, and ground ginger into a large bowl. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps to avoid lumps in the batter. -
Combine Wet Ingredients:
Make a well in the center of your sifted dry ingredients. Pour in the milk and add the egg. Gently mix to combine, then fold in the cooled butter mixture until the batter is smooth and well blended. -
Prepare the Apples:
In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with the lemon juice. This not only prevents them from browning but also adds a subtle tartness that complements the sweet and spicy gingerbread. -
Add Apples to Batter:
Gently fold the apple and lemon juice mixture into the batter. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. -
Bake:
Pour the gingerbread batter into your prepared tin and smooth the surface with a spatula. Place the tin in the center of your preheated oven and bake at 160°C (325°F) or gas mark 3 for 30-35 minutes. Check the doneness by inserting a skewer into the center of the cake. It should come out clean. Depending on your oven, you may need to bake for an additional 10 minutes, so keep an eye on it. -
Cool and Serve:
Allow the gingerbread to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, cut into squares. Be prepared for it to be a hit, as it’s so delicious you might find it hard to resist! -
Variation:
For a fun twist, you can spoon the batter into muffin cases to make individual gingerbread muffins. This makes for a delightful treat that’s easy to share or pack for on-the-go snacks. 🧁
Enjoy this delightful Sticky Gingerbread with Apple Surprise as a cozy dessert or a sweet afternoon treat. Its moist, sticky texture combined with the surprise of tender apples is sure to make every bite a pleasure. 🍏🍰
