Can I make Traditional Gingerbread Loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! Traditional Gingerbread Loaf is actually better the next day as the spices deepen in flavor. You can bake it up to two days in advance. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze for up to two months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of molasses in gingerbread loaf?

If you’re out of molasses, you can substitute with dark corn syrup, maple syrup, or a mix of honey and brown sugar. However, keep in mind that molasses is what gives Traditional Gingerbread Loaf its signature flavor and color, so substitutions will slightly alter the final taste.

How do I keep my gingerbread loaf moist?

To ensure your gingerbread loaf stays moist: Don’t overbake — check for doneness around 55 minutes. Use moisture-rich ingredients like applesauce or oil. Store the loaf tightly wrapped at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out baked goods.

Traditional Gingerbread Loaf – Best Holiday Recipe

Name: Traditional Gingerbread Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour: provides structure and a soft crumb; 1 teaspoon baking powder: helps the loaf rise; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: works with the acid to lift the batter; 1/2 teaspoon salt: enhances overall flavor; 1 tablespoon ground ginger: adds warmth and spice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: for sweet holiday flavor; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: adds depth and aroma; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: brings balance and sweetness; 3/4 cup milk: provides moisture; 3/4 cup brown sugar: adds moisture and caramel flavor; 1/2 cup molasses: signature gingerbread richness; 1/3 cup vegetable oil: keeps the loaf tender; 1/3 cup applesauce: adds extra moisture naturally; 2 large eggs: binds the ingredients and helps it rise

Description

This Traditional Gingerbread Loaf is a moist, spiced holiday classic made with molasses, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Perfect for cozy winter gatherings, edible gifts, or make-ahead baking.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour: provides structure and a soft crumb
1 teaspoon baking powder: helps the loaf rise
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: works with the acid to lift the batter
1/2 teaspoon salt: enhances overall flavor
1 tablespoon ground ginger: adds warmth and spice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: for sweet holiday flavor
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: adds depth and aroma
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: brings balance and sweetness
3/4 cup milk: provides moisture
3/4 cup brown sugar: adds moisture and caramel flavor
1/2 cup molasses: signature gingerbread richness
1/3 cup vegetable oil: keeps the loaf tender
1/3 cup applesauce: adds extra moisture naturally
2 large eggs: binds the ingredients and helps it rise

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and dust with flour or line with parchment paper.
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine milk, brown sugar, molasses, oil, applesauce, and eggs. Mix until well blended.
Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap for storage or freeze for later use.

Notes

Let the loaf rest overnight to allow the spices to deepen in flavor.
You may substitute buttermilk for milk for extra richness.
This loaf freezes well for up to 2 months.
Do not refrigerate; it can dry out the loaf.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 225
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 30mg