Warm up your holiday dessert spread with a Gingerbread Loaf, loaded with cozy spices like ginger and molasses. Creaming the butter and sugar creates a fluffy, aromatic batter, while a gentle bake yields a tender, perfectly spiced crumb. This classic treat fills the house with seasonal fragrance and makes for a comforting slice any time of day.
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Table of Contents
Ingredients for Gingerbread Loaf
For the loaf
- All-purpose flour – A classic choice for a tender crumb, and it works perfectly here.
- Baking soda – Essential for that rise we all love in a good loaf.
- Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.
- Ground ginger – This is the star of the show, so don’t skimp!
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to every bite.
- Ground cloves – A little goes a long way, but it’s so necessary for that classic gingerbread spice.
- Unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature for easy mixing and that rich, buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the loaf without overpowering the spices.
- Molasses – The key ingredient for that signature gingerbread taste and moist texture.
- Egg – Room temperature is best for even mixing into the batter.
- Hot water – Helps bring everything together into a smooth, luscious batter.
Cook Time for Moist Gingerbread Loaf
I love how this moist gingerbread loaf comes together so quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight treat. Here’s the simple breakdown of your time investment for this oven-baked spiced dessert bread.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 50 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
If you’re looking for more quick and satisfying ideas, our collection of healthy muffin recipes is a wonderful resource for busy bakers.
How to Make Easy Gingerbread Loaf
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, then line it with parchment paper, allowing the paper to overhang on two sides for easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves until evenly combined. Set the dry ingredients aside.
Step 3: Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar for 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add 1/2 cup molasses and 1 large egg, then mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
Step 4: Combine and Add Water
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup hot water and mix until the batter is uniformly smooth, with no visible streaks of flour.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to lift it out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make this gingerbread loaf even more special. Here are my favorite ways to customize this fluffy cinnamon ginger tea cake to your taste and make the process even smoother.
- Flavor Swap: For a deeper, more complex flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. It adds a rich caramel note that pairs beautifully with the molasses.
- Diet Tweak: To make this a lighter treat, you can replace the butter with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce. It creates a wonderfully chewy molasses butter loaf cake with less fat.
- Texture Fix: For an extra-moist crumb, wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap and let it rest overnight before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly tender.
- Storage Tip: This loaf freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. For more ideas on preserving your bakes, check out my tips for storing gluten-free pumpkin bread, which apply perfectly here too. And if you love this, you might also enjoy our tangy lemon rhubarb loaf for another seasonal favorite.
Gingerbread Loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1/2 cup hot water
Equipment
- oven
- spatula
- electric mixer
- loaf pan
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until evenly combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Slowly pour in the hot water and mix until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While this gingerbread loaf is undoubtedly a treat, I believe in understanding what we’re enjoying in our favorite baked goods. This spiced dessert loaf offers more than just comfort—it brings some surprising nutritional benefits too.
Molasses, that deep, rich ingredient that gives our loaf its signature flavor, actually contains iron, calcium, and magnesium. The spices aren’t just for taste either—ginger has been cherished for centuries for its digestive properties, while cinnamon may help support healthy blood sugar levels. I always feel good about serving this moist ginger-infused holiday bread to my family knowing it contains these wholesome elements.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find in each satisfying slice of this classic gingerbread loaf:
| Nutrient | Per Slice (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Remember, this is a celebration bread meant to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking for other wholesome baking ideas, check out our collection of healthy baking recipes that balance nutrition with incredible flavor. For those interested in the cultural background of this beloved treat, the history of gingerbread offers fascinating insights into its evolution through the centuries.
A Lighter Version of Moist Gingerbread Loaf
I understand that sometimes we want to enjoy our favorite treats while being mindful of ingredients. Over the years, I’ve perfected a lighter version of this moist gingerbread loaf that still delivers all the cozy spices we love.
For a reduced-fat option, replace the butter with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce—this creates a wonderfully chewy molasses butter loaf cake with half the fat content. You can also swap the granulated sugar for coconut sugar or reduce it by a quarter cup if you prefer a less sweet bread. The spices will still shine through beautifully!
If you’re avoiding gluten, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. The texture might be slightly denser, but the flavor remains just as wonderful. For more gluten-free inspiration, my gluten-free pumpkin bread recipe follows similar principles for delicious results.
These simple tweaks let you enjoy this easy gingerbread loaf any time without guilt. If you love adapting recipes to fit your dietary needs, you’ll find plenty of ideas in my healthy Thanksgiving desserts collection that work year-round.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Over coffee with friends, I’ve learned how many of us are looking for ways to enjoy traditional recipes while being sugar conscious. If you’re exploring diabetic-friendly options or simply reducing sugar in your diet, this gingerbread loaf can adapt beautifully to meet your needs.
For a truly low sugar version, replace the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or xylitol—just be sure to use a conversion chart as these alternatives are much sweeter than sugar. You could also try using date paste or mashed very ripe bananas for a more natural sugar alternative that adds moisture too.
Portion control makes a big difference for glucose-friendly eating. I often slice this holiday gingerbread loaf into thinner pieces and enjoy it with a protein-rich accompaniment like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts. This helps create better glycemic control while still letting you savor the spices you love.
Remember, even small tweaks can make traditional recipes work for your nutritional needs without sacrificing the comfort and joy of homemade baking.
How to Serve Gingerbread Loaf
I’ll never forget the first time I served this gingerbread loaf to my grandmother—she took one bite, closed her eyes, and said “Now that tastes like Christmas morning.” Since that moment, this oven-baked spiced dessert bread has held a special place in our family traditions, appearing at everything from holiday breakfasts to cozy afternoon teas.
This fluffy cinnamon ginger tea cake is incredibly versatile. For breakfast, I love it lightly toasted with a smear of cream cheese or almond butter. In the afternoon, it pairs perfectly with a cup of Earl Grey tea or dark coffee—the spices seem to dance together in your mouth. For dessert, try warming a slice and serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
If you’re serving this at a gathering, consider pairing it with other seasonal favorites like my pecan pie cheesecake for a dessert table that will have everyone coming back for seconds. For smaller gatherings, these mini pecan pies create a beautiful spread alongside our gingerbread loaf.
However you choose to serve it, this baked spiced molasses dessert loaf brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. It’s one of those recipes that seems to make everyone feel right at home, just like my grandmother felt that special morning.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years of making this gingerbread loaf recipe, I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way. I’ll never forget the time I accidentally used baking powder instead of soda—let’s just say my loaf had ambitions of becoming a volcano! These simple mistakes can happen to anyone, but they’re easy to avoid with a little know-how.
First, measuring flour incorrectly is probably the most common error. Too much flour makes your loaf dry and dense rather than moist. I always spoon flour into my measuring cup and level it off—never scoop directly from the bag. This ensures you get just the right amount for that perfect fluffy cinnamon ginger tea cake texture we all love.
Another mistake I see often is overmixing the batter. Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined—a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overworking the batter develops too much gluten, resulting in a tough chewy molasses butter loaf cake instead of the tender crumb we’re after.
Don’t make my early mistake of using expired spices either! Ginger and cinnamon lose their potency over time, and fresh spices make all the difference in this holiday gingerbread loaf. If your spices have been in the cabinet for over a year, it’s time for fresh ones—your taste buds will thank you.
Finally, baking in the wrong pan size can throw everything off. This recipe is designed for a standard 9×5 loaf pan. If you use a different size, your baking time will need adjustment, and you might not get that beautiful domed top we all want in our baked spiced molasses dessert loaf.
Remember these tips, and you’ll avoid the most common gingerbread mistakes. For more baking guidance, check out my tips for perfect muffins every time—many of the same principles apply. And if you’re curious about other baking challenges, the history of gingerbread reveals how bakers have perfected this treat over centuries.
How to Store Gingerbread Loaf
My grandmother always said good food deserves proper care, and she’d wrap her gingerbread loaf in a clean kitchen towel before tucking it into the bread box. While I’ve modernized her methods, the principle remains—proper storage keeps this moist gingerbread loaf fresh and delicious for days.
For short-term storage, let your loaf cool completely first. I then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature. Stored this way, your easy gingerbread loaf will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to maintain that just-baked moisture, I sometimes place a slice of bread in the container with the loaf—it works wonders!
Freezing is my go-to method for longer storage. I slice the loaf first, then place parchment paper between slices so I can grab just what I need. The entire wrapped loaf or individual slices freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When that gingerbread craving hits, just pop a frozen slice in the toaster—it tastes like it just came out of the oven!
If your spiced dessert loaf does get a bit dry, don’t worry! Simply warm it slightly and serve with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. For more storage tips and recipes that keep well, check out my cottage cheese banana bread which has similar storage needs. And if you love make-ahead treats, my snickerdoodle banana bread freezes just as beautifully as our gingerbread loaf.
Try This Gingerbread Loaf Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time I made this gingerbread loaf for my daughter’s holiday bake sale—within minutes, empty plates were all that remained, and three parents asked for the recipe. That’s when I knew this moist ginger-infused holiday bread was something special worth sharing with all of you.
There’s something magical about filling your home with the warm scent of spices and molasses, creating memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone. This gingerbread loaf has become more than just a recipe in our family—it’s a tradition that connects generations, a comfort on chilly evenings, and a celebration of the simple joy of baking.
I encourage you to make this easy gingerbread loaf your own tradition. Share it with loved ones, adapt it to your dietary needs, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something beautiful and delicious from scratch. The satisfaction of pulling this golden-brown masterpiece from your oven is something every home baker should experience.
If you love this gingerbread loaf, I think you’ll enjoy these other comforting baked goods too. My lemon rhubarb loaf offers a bright, tangy contrast to our spicy gingerbread. For another holiday favorite, try my gluten-free pumpkin bread that’s equally moist and flavorful. And if you’re looking for more festive ideas, my Valentine’s Day desserts bring that same homemade warmth to any celebration.
However you choose to enjoy it, this gingerbread loaf is waiting to become part of your family’s story too. Happy baking, my friends—may your kitchen be warm, your spices be fragrant, and your heart be full.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to chewy gingerbread?
The secret lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients plus not overbaking. Using the right amount of molasses and butter creates that perfect chewy texture. I also find that taking the gingerbread loaf out of the oven just before it’s completely done allows carryover cooking to create that ideal chewy-yet-moist consistency we all love.
Is gingerbread a bread or a cake?
This is one of those delightful culinary mysteries! Technically, our gingerbread loaf falls somewhere between bread and cake—it’s what bakers call a “quick bread” since it uses baking soda instead of yeast for leavening. Unlike traditional breads, it’s sweeter and more decadent, but it’s not as light and airy as a typical cake. It truly occupies its own delicious category!
What is the world’s best gingerbread?
While there are famous gingerbread varieties worldwide—from Germany’s lebkuchen to Sweden’s pepparkakor—I believe the best gingerbread is the one that evokes your fondest memories. For me, it’s this moist gingerbread loaf recipe that fills my kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. The “best” is ultimately what tastes like home to you, though this recipe has certainly become a favorite among my readers and family alike.
What are common gingerbread mistakes?
The most common mistakes include overmeasuring flour, using old spices, overmixing the batter, and baking in the wrong pan size. I’ve also seen people forget to properly grease their pans—resulting in stuck gingerbread! For more tips on avoiding baking pitfalls, check out my healthy baking guide that covers these fundamentals in detail.
More Cozy Baking Recipes You’ll Love
If this gingerbread loaf brought warmth to your kitchen, you might enjoy these other comforting baked goods that have become favorites in our home.
Each recipe carries that same homemade magic that turns simple ingredients into cherished traditions.
- Lemon Blueberry Dessert – A bright, refreshing treat that balances tart citrus with sweet bursts of berry goodness.
- Best Pumpkin Muffins – Spiced, moist muffins that capture all the cozy flavors of fall in every single bite.
- Pumpkin Cupcakes – Festive individual treats topped with creamy frosting that make any day feel special.
- Pumpkin Cookies – Soft, cake-like cookies with warm spices that practically melt in your mouth.
- Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake – A playful, colorful dessert that brings joyful crunch to creamy indulgence.
