Gingerbread

Gingerbread Recipe from Estonia | Treacle, Butter, Flour & More

Region / culture: Estonia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Gingerbread is a classic holiday treat that is loved by many for its warm and spicy flavors. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations and is a staple during the festive season.

History

Gingerbread has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece and Egypt. It became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, where it was often shaped into intricate designs and used as decorations. Today, gingerbread is a beloved treat enjoyed around the world.

Ingredients

1 cup of treacle or honey
0.2 cup of butter
0.4 cup of sugar
1.5-2 cups of flour
salt (according to your taste)
2 tsp of gingerbread spices (cinnamon, clove, cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg)
1 egg
2 tsp of baking powder

How to prepare

In a saucepan, bring the treacle, sugar, and butter to a boil, stirring constantly.
Add the gingerbread spices to the mixture and let it cool while beating.
Gradually add the whisked egg and the flour mixed with baking powder.
Knead the mixture until it forms a solid dough.
Place the dough in a cool area.
Roll out the dough.
Butter a baking sheet, shape the dough into cakes, and place them on the sheet.
Bake the cakes in a pre-heated oven.
Once cooled, you may decorate the cakes as desired before serving.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for extra texture.
Use molasses instead of honey for a richer flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh spices for the best flavor.

- Allow the dough to chill before rolling it out for easier handling.

- Decorate the gingerbread with icing, candies, or nuts for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve gingerbread with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy for a tender gingerbread.

- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use maple syrup or molasses instead of honey.

- Margarine can be used in place of butter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate the gingerbread with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy gingerbread with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to warm it up before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of gingerbread contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of gingerbread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of gingerbread contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of gingerbread contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Gingerbread is a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and wheat.

Summary

Gingerbread is a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Gingerbread is a classic holiday treat that is easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. With its warm spices and sweet flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for gingerbread. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, spending my summers at my grandmother's house in the countryside. My grandmother was known for her delicious baked goods, and I was always eager to learn from her in the kitchen.

One day, as I was helping her prepare a batch of cookies, she pulled out an old, stained recipe card from her recipe box. She told me that this was her special recipe for gingerbread, passed down from her own mother. As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I could see the love and nostalgia in her eyes.

I watched closely as she measured out the flour, sugar, molasses, and spices, carefully mixing them together to create the perfect dough. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting scent of ginger and cinnamon, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the gingerbread baked in the oven, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, when she would help her mother make this recipe for holidays and special occasions. She told me how the aroma of fresh gingerbread would fill their home, bringing warmth and joy to all who entered.

When the timer finally chimed, signaling that the gingerbread was ready, I eagerly helped my grandmother take it out of the oven. The golden-brown loaf was steaming hot and fragrant, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

As we sat down to enjoy our freshly baked gingerbread, I savored each bite, savoring the rich, spicy flavor and tender texture. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished tradition in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made my grandmother's gingerbread recipe countless times, sharing it with friends and family members. I have added my own touches and variations to the original recipe, experimenting with different spices and toppings to create new and exciting flavors.

But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the essence of my grandmother's gingerbread always remains the same – a symbol of love, tradition, and the joy of baking. To this day, whenever I make a batch of gingerbread, I am transported back to that summer in my grandmother's kitchen, learning from the best and creating memories that will last a lifetime.