Are you dreaming of cozy nights by the fire, the scent of warm spices filling your home? Then look no further! This bread machine gingerbread recipe is the perfect way to bring that festive feeling to your kitchen. Forget complicated recipes and long baking times; this easy recipe uses your bread machine to do the heavy lifting, leaving you with a deliciously moist and perfectly spiced gingerbread loaf, ideal for a quick dessert or a comforting treat. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bread Machine: Grease your bread machine pan lightly with butter or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious gingerbread.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, melted butter, egg, and molasses until well combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and sugar.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bread machine pan, followed by the dry ingredients. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
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Select the Dough Cycle: Most bread machines have a dough cycle; select this setting. If your machine doesn't have a specific dough cycle, choose the basic bread cycle and stop the machine before it starts the baking cycle.
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Knead and Rise: Allow the bread machine to knead the dough according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Once kneaded, the dough will rise inside the machine.
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Shape and Bake: Gently remove the dough from the bread machine and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf back into the greased bread machine pan. Select the bake cycle on your bread machine and bake according to the manufacturer's instructions (this will usually take around 45-55 minutes).
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Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the gingerbread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Gingerbread:
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will give your gingerbread a much more vibrant and intense flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to a tough gingerbread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, it's done.
- Storage: Store leftover gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Glaze it Up: Drizzle a simple cream cheese frosting or a tangy lemon glaze over the cooled gingerbread for an extra touch of sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your loaf. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and serving size. However, you can expect this recipe to provide a good source of carbohydrates and some fiber.
This bread machine gingerbread recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic treat. It's perfect for beginner bakers, a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, and a fantastic way to enjoy easy recipes and delicious dishes all year round. The ease and convenience of using your bread machine makes this recipe a true winner, helping you create healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen.