Welcome to Lovewithrecipes.com, where we’re thrilled to share with you a delightful dessert recipe that transcends time and culinary traditions – the Spiced Gyngerbrede. This historic gem, originating from George Washington’s mother’s kitchen, promises a flavor journey that will transport you to a bygone era. With a preparation time of 37 minutes and a set of wholesome ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those craving a taste of the past in under an hour.
Spiced Gyngerbrede Recipe

Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1/2 cup | Shortening |
2 3/4 cups | Flour |
2 teaspoons | Baking soda |
1 teaspoon | Salt |
1/2 cup | Brown sugar |
1/2 teaspoon | Cinnamon |
1 | Egg |
3/4 teaspoon | Mace |
1 cup | Molasses |
1 cup | Sorghum |
1 teaspoon | Nutmeg |
1/4 cup | Raisins |
1/2 cup | Coffee |
Instructions:
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Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
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In a mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and orange rind until smooth and well combined.
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Gradually add the brown sugar, ensuring a thorough creaming process for a luscious texture.
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Blend in the well-beaten eggs, allowing the mixture to become a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Beat the mixture vigorously for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth batter that sets the foundation for a delectable dessert.
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In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices, creating a fragrant blend that will infuse the Gyngerbrede with warmth.
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Add the sifted dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the molasses and a mix of orange juice or brandy. This step ensures an even distribution of flavors, creating a symphony of tastes with every bite.
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Stir in the raisins, adding a burst of sweetness and chewiness to the Gyngerbrede.
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Grease and flour an 8″ X 12″ X 2-1/2″ pan, providing the perfect canvas for your historic creation.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly for a consistent bake.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aromas wafting from your oven will signal the impending delight that awaits.
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Allow the Gyngerbrede to cool before slicing into squares or bars, savoring the rich history and flavors in every bite.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 4215.4
- Fat Content: 123g
- Saturated Fat Content: 31.7g
- Cholesterol Content: 634.5mg
- Sodium Content: 2817.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 693.1g
- Fiber Content: 15.4g
- Sugar Content: 343.8g
- Protein Content: 57.6g
Additional Tips:
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George Washington’s mother’s original recipe intriguingly omits ginger, providing a unique twist to the traditional Gyngerbrede.
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For a non-alcoholic variation, fruit juice or coffee can be substituted for brandy, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your preferences.
So, whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone with a sweet tooth, this Spiced Gyngerbrede recipe invites you to embark on a culinary journey through time, creating a dessert that’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a connection to the rich tapestry of culinary heritage. 🕰️✨🍽️