Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves are a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of the holiday season right into your kitchen. With their warm spices and rich molasses, these mini loaves offer an irresistible aroma that will fill your home and warm your heart. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of tea, they’re a simple yet satisfying baking project. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious treats!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 mini loaves
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
These Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves are not just delicious; they also capture the spirit of the holidays in each bite. With a perfect balance of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, they deliver a warm kick that both kids and adults will love. Their adorable size makes them perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings. Plus, the easy preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festive season with loved ones!
How to Make Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini loaf pans. This ensures a non-stick surface for your delicious loaves to pop out effortlessly.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. This step combines the dry elements and infuses the flour with the wonderful spices that will flavor your loaves.
Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth. The mixture should become fluffy and light, creating a lovely base for your batter.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Beat in the molasses and large eggs until fully combined. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want your loaves to be soft and tender.
Step 5: Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared mini loaf pans, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The house will smell heavenly during this time!
Step 6: Cooling
Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling process helps maintain their moisture and texture.
How to Serve Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
These mini loaves are delightful as is, but you can elevate them by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of cream cheese. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. For festive occasions, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling them with a simple icing.
How to Store Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
Store these gingerbread loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming.
- To enhance the spice flavor, you can toast the spices briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the mixture.
- If you prefer a bit of an extra kick, consider adding a touch of black pepper or nutmeg to your spice blend.
- Make sure not to overbake; check for doneness a few minutes early to keep the loaves moist.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Gingerbread: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Nutty Loaves: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Fruity Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or chopped dates for a fruity variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for similar results. -
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you’re out of molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup, but this will slightly change the flavor and color of the loaves. -
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a large enough bowl and pan to accommodate the increased volume, and adjust the baking time as needed. -
How do I know when the loaves are done baking?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s wet with batter, give them a few more minutes in the oven. -
Can I use different spices?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom or allspice for unique flavor profiles.
Conclusion
These Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves are not only delightful to taste but also bring joy and warmth to any gathering or holiday. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you can create something truly special that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the wonderful experience of baking these scrumptious mini loaves!
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Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 mini loaves 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful mini loaves filled with warm spices and rich molasses, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini loaf pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt.
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the molasses and large eggs until fully combined. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Pour the batter into the prepared mini loaf pans, filling each about two-thirds full and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow the loaves to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
Serve with whipped cream or cream cheese. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 loaf
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
