Gingerbread Loaf
Yield: 12 slices
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 55 minutes
Total: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
Gingerbread Loaf:
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 tsp ground ginger
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ cup (114g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/3 cup (75g) brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
2/3 cup (160ml) molasses
1 cup (240ml) water, lukewarm
Cream Cheese Frosting:
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup (4oz) cream cheese, room temperature
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
Directions:
For the loaf:
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5" loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar. Mix in the egg, and then slowly mix in the molasses.
Sift in flour, baking soda, salt, and spices. Mix on low speed until just combined.
With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the lukewarm water. Mix until smooth and combined. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting:
Beat the cream cheese and butter until combined. Mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue mixing until smooth.
Cover and chill in the fridge for 30-60 minutes to firm up the frosting (if needed), then spread on top of the cooled gingerbread loaf.
Notes:
Leftovers can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Storing & freezing instructions:
Store the gingerbread loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep it fresh. If frosted, refrigerate immediately and allow slices to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
To freeze, wrap the unfrosted loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost and serve. For individual portions, slice the loaf before freezing and separate slices with parchment paper for easy access.
Nutrtitional Facts:
Serving: 1slice, Calories: 374kcal, Carbohydrates: 57g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 9g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 4g, Trans Fat: 0.5g, Cholesterol: 54mg, Sodium: 332mg, Potassium: 331mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 40g, Vitamin A: 503IU, Vitamin C: 0.01mg, Calcium: 65mg, Iron: 2mg
Recipe courtesy of Little Sweet Baker.com
