Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Recipe
Description: This old-fashioned gingerbread recipe is a delightful treat that evokes memories of childhood and brings warmth to any occasion. Adapted for modern times by Cooking Smart for a Healthy Heart, from Readers Digest, this gingerbread is not only delicious but also heart-healthy. It’s perfect for dessert or as a snack, and its spicy flavor makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, need a quick weeknight treat, or just craving something sweet, this gingerbread is sure to satisfy.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 179.9
- Fat Content: 4.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 17.6mg
- Sodium Content: 232.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 33.7g
- Fiber Content: 0.5g
- Sugar Content: 20.1g
- Protein Content: 2g
Ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup light molasses
- 1 egg
- 4 tablespoons margarine
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons crystallized ginger
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 350°F. |
| 2 | Generously coat an 8-inch square cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. |
| 3 | Place a cooling rack on waxed paper. |
| 4 | In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. |
| 5 | In a separate bowl, blend together applesauce, molasses, and egg. |
| 6 | In another medium bowl, cream together margarine and brown sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. |
| 7 | Reduce mixer speed to low and beat in the applesauce mixture. |
| 8 | Stir in the flour mixture with a wooden spoon until just combined. |
| 9 | Blend in the fresh ginger. |
| 10 | Scrape the batter into the prepared cake pan. |
| 11 | Bake until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging, about 45 minutes. |
| 12 | Cool the gingerbread in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. |
| 13 | Remove the gingerbread from the pan and set it right side up on the wire rack to cool completely. |
| 14 | Once cooled, scatter the crystallized ginger on top of the gingerbread. |
| 15 | In a small bowl, blend the confectioners’ sugar with enough water (about 1 1/2 tablespoons) to make a spreadable glaze. |
| 16 | Drizzle the glaze over the crystallized ginger using a fork, letting some of it drizzle down the sides. |
| 17 | Alternatively, if you prefer not to glaze, simply add a dollop of whipped cream before serving. |
This Old-Fashioned Gingerbread recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned baker, you’ll love the simplicity and heartiness of this classic dessert. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon indulgence, or serve it at your next gathering for a nostalgic touch that everyone will appreciate.
