Ginger Gems

Introduction

History

Ginger Gems have been a popular treat for centuries, with their origins dating back to the early 19th century. Originally made with fresh ginger, the recipe has evolved over time to include preserved ginger for a more intense flavor. These small cakes were often served at tea parties and social gatherings, making them a staple in many households.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the Crisco and sugar together thoroughly to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Be sure to sift the dry ingredients together before adding them to the wet ingredients to prevent lumps in the batter.

- Grease and flour the gem pans well to prevent the cakes from sticking.

- Keep an eye on the baking time, as overbaking can result in dry and tough cakes.

Serving Suggestions

Ginger Gems are best served warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the Ginger Gems in a hot oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute Crisco with butter for a richer flavor.

- Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Replace the preserved ginger with candied orange peel for a citrusy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Ginger Gems can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Ginger Gems on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Ginger Gems with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of sparkling cider for a delightful combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Ginger Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ginger Gems contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ginger Gems contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ginger Gems contains approximately 10g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Ginger Gems contains approximately 3g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Ginger Gems are a good source of iron and calcium, providing essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

Ginger Gems may contain allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat.

Summary

Ginger Gems are a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of essential nutrients such as iron and calcium.

Summary

Ginger Gems are a delicious and flavorful treat that is perfect for any occasion. With their warm and spicy flavor, these small cakes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served with a cup of tea or as a dessert, Ginger Gems are a delightful addition to any menu.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Ginger Gems. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha who lived down the street. Martha was known for her delicious baking, and she had promised to teach me a new recipe that afternoon. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, she pulled out an old, tattered cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations.

"This recipe for Ginger Gems has been a favorite in my family for as long as I can remember," Martha said with a smile. "It's a simple yet delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion."

I watched intently as Martha gathered the ingredients and began to explain the steps. She showed me how to mix the flour, sugar, ginger, and other spices together in a bowl. Then she added the wet ingredients, such as milk and eggs, and stirred everything until it formed a smooth batter.

"Once the batter is ready, you'll spoon it into a muffin tin and bake in the oven until the gems are golden brown and fragrant," Martha instructed.

As the ginger gems baked, the kitchen filled with a warm, spicy aroma that made my mouth water. When they were finally done, Martha pulled them out of the oven and placed them on a cooling rack. She handed me one to try, and I took a bite, savoring the soft, moist texture and the burst of ginger and spice in every bite.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew that I had to learn how to make Ginger Gems on my own. I asked Martha for a copy of the recipe, and she happily obliged. I made a mental note to return the favor and share a beloved family recipe of mine with her in return.

As soon as I got back home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. I followed Martha's instructions carefully, and soon the house was filled with the same delicious aroma that had captivated me at her house. When the ginger gems were done, I shared them with my family, who couldn't get enough of the sweet and spicy treats.

Over the years, I have continued to make Ginger Gems for special occasions and gatherings. They have become a staple in my recipe collection, a reminder of that fateful day when Martha introduced me to this delightful treat. I have tweaked the recipe over time, adding my own twist with a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of orange zest. Each time I make them, I think of Martha and the wonderful memories we shared in her kitchen.

But Martha was not the only person who influenced my love for cooking and baking. My own grandmother, who was a talented cook in her own right, taught me many of the recipes that I still make to this day. She had a knack for creating simple yet flavorful dishes that always brought the family together around the dinner table.

One of her specialties was a hearty beef stew that simmered on the stove for hours, filling the house with a rich, savory aroma that made our mouths water. She would add carrots, potatoes, and onions to the pot, along with a secret blend of herbs and spices that gave the stew its unique flavor.

I remember watching her as she chopped vegetables and browned the meat, her hands moving with speed and precision that only comes from years of practice. She would hum a tune as she worked, her face glowing with joy and contentment. I knew then that cooking was not just a task for her, but a passion that brought her immense pleasure.

As I grew older, my grandmother began to teach me her recipes, passing down her culinary wisdom from one generation to the next. She showed me how to make her famous beef stew, along with other family favorites like chicken pot pie and apple crumble. I cherished those moments spent in the kitchen with her, absorbing her knowledge and learning the art of cooking from the best teacher I could have asked for.

Thanks to Martha and my grandmother, I have a treasure trove of recipes that I hold dear to my heart. Each dish tells a story, a memory of a special moment shared with loved ones. And now, as I make Ginger Gems in my own kitchen, I am reminded of those who have inspired me along the way. I am grateful for their guidance and their love, which continues to live on in every bite of this delicious treat.

Categories

| Crystallized Ginger Recipes | Egg Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Muffin Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes |

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