Gingerbread Honey Loaf combines warm spices with the rich sweetness of honey, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
- 1/4 cup molasses
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey and molasses, and beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Buttermilk:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Gradually mix in the buttermilk.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the crystallized ginger if using.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze (optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per slice
Variations
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the loaf with coarse sugar before baking for added texture and sweetness.
- Additional Spices: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra depth of flavor.
Storage
- Storage: This loaf keeps well when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store at room temperature for up to a week.
FAQs
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, though it may alter the texture slightly. - Can I substitute the crystallized ginger?
Fresh ginger or additional spices can be used if you prefer not to use crystallized ginger. - What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. - Can I freeze this loaf?
Yes, the loaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. - How do I know when the loaf is done?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. - Can I use a different type of sugar?
You can use white sugar or coconut sugar, though the flavor may differ slightly. - How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container or wrap tightly to keep fresh. - Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for extra texture and flavor. - What’s the best way to serve this loaf?
Enjoy it plain, or with a smear of butter or cream cheese. - Can I use a different pan size?
If using a different pan size, adjust the baking time as needed. A smaller pan may require more baking time, while a larger pan may reduce baking time.
Conclusion
Gingerbread Honey Loaf is a delightful, spiced bread that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy its sweet and aromatic flavors throughout the week!
PrintGingerbread Honey Loaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
A delightful loaf with warm spices and a touch of honey, perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
- 1/4 cup molasses
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey and molasses, and beat until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Buttermilk: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated. Gradually mix in the buttermilk.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the crystallized ginger if using.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze (optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Notes
For an extra touch, sprinkle the loaf with a bit of coarse sugar before baking. This loaf keeps well and can be wrapped tightly for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes