This bread machine gingerbread is a delightful and aromatic treat, perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a warm, spiced dessert. Made with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, it fills your kitchen with a comforting fragrance as it bakes.
Using a bread machine simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy homemade gingerbread with minimal effort. This recipe is easy to follow and produces a moist, flavorful loaf that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Creating the Perfect Gingerbread Loaf
Gingerbread has an undeniable charm, especially when it’s freshly baked. The aroma of spices fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
This delightful loaf, with its golden brown crust and slightly cracked top, is a perfect centerpiece for any festive gathering.
When you slice into it, the moist texture and rich, spiced interior beckon you to take a bite.
Pairing this gingerbread with a cup of tea or coffee enhances the experience, making it a comforting treat for any occasion.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The magic of gingerbread lies in its ingredients.
Key components like molasses, ground ginger, and cinnamon contribute to its signature flavor profile.
Each ingredient plays a role, from the warm water that activates the yeast to the brown sugar that adds depth and sweetness.
Using quality spices ensures that every slice is packed with flavor, making it a memorable dessert.
The Convenience of a Bread Machine
Using a bread machine simplifies the baking process significantly.
With just a few steps, you can create a homemade loaf without the hassle of manual mixing and kneading.
This method is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked gingerbread with minimal effort.
Simply add the ingredients in the right order, select the appropriate settings, and let the machine do the work.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once baked and cooled, the gingerbread loaf is ready to be served.
For a festive touch, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with cinnamon sticks and star anise.
This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds to the aromatic experience.
Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover gingerbread, storing it properly is key to maintaining its freshness.
Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
It can be enjoyed for several days, and the flavors may even deepen over time, making it a delightful treat to savor.
Reheating individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds can bring back that freshly baked warmth.
Gingerbread: A Timeless Classic
This gingerbread loaf is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions.
Whether enjoyed during the holidays or any time of year, it brings comfort and joy to those who partake.
Creating this loaf at home not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also offers a sense of accomplishment.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up the bread machine, and treat yourself to this classic delight!
Simple Bread Machine Gingerbread
This gingerbread recipe yields a soft and spiced loaf that is perfect for slicing and serving. The bread machine does all the mixing and kneading, making it a convenient option for busy bakers. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and serves 10 slices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Machine: Grease the bread pan with butter to prevent sticking.
- Add Ingredients: Pour the warm water, molasses, and vegetable oil into the bread pan. Then, add the bread flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt in that order.
- Select the Program: Choose the ‘Quick Bread’ or ‘Sweet Bread’ setting on your bread machine. Set the crust color to your preference.
- Start the Machine: Close the lid and start the bread machine. Allow it to mix, knead, and bake the gingerbread according to the machine’s instructions.
- Cool and Slice: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread pan from the machine. Let the gingerbread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g