Favorite Old-Fashioned Gingerbread – A Warm, Moist, and Perfectly
Favorite Old-Fashioned Gingerbread is a moist and flavorful spice cake made with molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and other warming ingredients. The cake bakes into a tender, rich dessert with a deep caramel-like sweetness and a delightful spice profile. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, and cozy evenings, this classic recipe offers timeless comfort and delicious flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and wonderfully aromatic, it's a dessert that continues to be loved across generations.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup molasses
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Add molasses and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
- Slowly stir in hot water until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the gingerbread to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Use dark molasses for a richer flavor.
- Fresh spices provide the best aroma and taste.
- Hot water creates a moist, tender crumb.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The flavor improves after a day.
- Serve warm for the best experience.