Gingerbread Goodness
When it comes to Christmas baking, nothing quite captures the spirit of the season like the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create some of the best gingerbread you have ever tasted!
Let the baking magic begin!
1. Gather the Ingredients
Before you dive in, gather the ingredients:
- 250g all-purpose (plain) flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 125g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 125g molasses
- 60ml hot water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Icing sugar (to decorate)
2. Pre-heat the oven & prepare the pan
Preheat your oven to 180°C fan forced (350°F) and grease a 23 cm square (or similar) baking pan with a touch of butter or cooking spray. Line the base with baking paper. This will ensure your gingerbread doesn't stick and comes out perfectly.
3. Mix the dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Step 4. Cream the butter and sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add the wet ingredients
Beat in the egg, molasses, hot water, and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until the ingredients come together to create a smooth batter. It's like a potion that will transform into gingerbread goodness!
Step 6: Combine the dry and wet mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined. Do not over mix.
Step 7: Bake and let the delicious aromas fill the air!
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and let the magic unfold. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool, Decorate, and Enjoy!
Once your gingerbread has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with icing sugar (or let your creativity shine and add icing, sprinkles, Smarties or any other festive decorations)
SLICE and ENJOY!
Send A Toy xx
