Warm Gingerbread

Warm Gingerbread Recipe - England | Ingredients: Date Sugar, Margarine, Unbleached Flour, Egg, and More

Region / culture: England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 25

Introduction

Warm gingerbread is a classic dessert that is perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a comforting treat. This recipe combines the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with the sweetness of date sugar to create a delicious and moist cake that is sure to please your taste buds.

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 elaborate designs and used as decorations. In the 17th century, gingerbread houses became a popular Christmas tradition in Germany, and the recipe has since evolved to include a variety of ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

butter-flavored cooking spray
1.5 cup (354 ml) water
1 cup (225 g) date sugar
4 tbsp (50 g) margarine, softened
2 tsp (10 ml) ground ginger
1 tsp (5 ml) ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp (2.5 ml) ground cloves
2 cup (280 g) unbleached flour
1 tsp (5 ml) baking soda
1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder
1 large beaten egg

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F / 180°C / gas mark 4.
Lightly coat a 9-inch (22.5 cm) square baking pan with cooking spray.
In a heavy saucepan, simmer the water and date sugar for 5 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool.
In a bowl, combine margarine, spices, and the cooled date sugar mixture.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and egg.
Mix until just blended.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25 – 35 minutes or until the gingerbread pulls away and springs back when touched.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to continue cooling.
Cut the cake into 25 squares.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle warm gingerbread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Top warm gingerbread with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh spices for the best flavor in this recipe.

- Make sure to cool the date sugar mixture before adding it to the other ingredients.

- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.

- Check the gingerbread for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when it is ready.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm gingerbread with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the creaming method to incorporate the ingredients, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have date sugar, you can use brown sugar as a substitute.

- Butter can be used in place of margarine if desired.

- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of unbleached flour for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Warm gingerbread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve warm gingerbread on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Warm gingerbread pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of warm gingerbread contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of warm gingerbread contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of warm gingerbread contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of warm gingerbread contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Warm gingerbread is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and eggs.

Summary

Warm gingerbread is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking for a sweet treat without too much guilt.

Summary

Warm gingerbread is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its warm spices and moist texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a cold winter day and I was visiting my dear friend Martha. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was hit with the warm and comforting aroma of gingerbread. Martha was busy pulling a fresh batch out of the oven, and I couldn't wait to have a taste.

As I sat down at her kitchen table, Martha handed me a slice of the warm gingerbread along with a steaming cup of tea. The first bite was like a hug from the inside out. The rich molasses, spicy ginger, and sweet cinnamon danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

I begged Martha to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. She explained that the recipe had been passed down in her family for generations, and she had learned how to make it from her own grandmother. I listened intently as she walked me through the steps, from mixing the dry ingredients to slowly folding in the molasses and spices.

After that day, I couldn't get the warm gingerbread out of my mind. I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. I spent hours practicing and tweaking the recipe, adding a touch of nutmeg here and a pinch of cloves there until I felt like I had perfected it.

I made the warm gingerbread for my family that weekend, and they were instantly smitten. My children declared it their new favorite dessert, and my husband couldn't get enough of the cozy flavors. From that moment on, it became a staple in our household, especially during the chilly winter months.

Over the years, I have made the warm gingerbread for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties. It has become my signature dish, and I am always met with requests for the recipe. I take great pride in sharing the story of how I learned to make it, passing on the tradition from Martha's kitchen to mine.

As I sit in my own kitchen now, preparing a fresh batch of warm gingerbread for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The recipe holds so much more than just ingredients and measurements – it holds memories of laughter, love, and friendship.

I am grateful for the day I walked into Martha's kitchen and discovered the magic of warm gingerbread. It has brought me closer to my family, connected me to my past, and filled my home with warmth and joy. And for that, I will always be thankful.