Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that will fill your home with delightful scents and memories, look no further than Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe). This recipe has a special place in my heart, and I love sharing it with friends and family. It’s incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight or serve at a cozy gathering. The rich molasses paired with fragrant ginger creates a flavor that feels like a warm hug.

I adore how this simple 6-ingredient recipe brings everyone together, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive holidays. Once you smell the gingerbread baking, you’ll want to dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep and 18 minutes in the oven, you’ll have delicious gingerbread ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the sweet, spicy flavors of this gingerbread. It’s perfect for baking together on weekends.
• Versatile dessert: Enjoy it warm with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve it as an after-dinner treat with whipped topping.
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, you can feel good about what goes into this treat.
• Classic comfort food: This recipe hails from the 1800s, bringing timeless flavor to your table and evoking nostalgia with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple yet wholesome ingredients! Each component plays a role in creating that soft texture and rich flavor in Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe).

Ingredients:
– 1 cup molasses
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger
– 1 tablespoon butter or lard
– 1/2 cup boiling water
– 2 cups flour

Variations

One of the best things about this gingerbread recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add spices: For a warm twist, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
• Incorporate zest: A tablespoon of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the taste and add a lovely citrus note.
• Nutty goodness: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
• Vegan option: Swap butter for coconut oil or your favorite plant-based butter alternative to keep it dairy-free.

How to Make Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even baking, giving your gingerbread that perfectly soft texture throughout.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine molasses, baking powder, ginger, and butter or lard. Stir these ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture. This step is important because blending them well helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine with Boiling Water

Next, carefully pour in 1/2 cup of boiling water. The hot water helps activate the baking powder while also making the batter easier to mix. Once added, stir in the flour gradually. Be sure to beat well until everything is combined; this will give your gingerbread its delightful texture.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Spread your batter into a well-greased 8×8 pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for consistent baking. Proper greasing prevents sticking, ensuring each slice comes out beautifully.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake until set in the center—about 18 minutes. Keep an eye on it as ovens vary! Enjoy the amazing aroma wafting through your kitchen as you wait for this classic treat to finish baking.

Now you’re all set to enjoy Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread! Whether you’re sharing it at home or enjoying it solo with your favorite beverage, I know you’ll love every bite just as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)

Making this delicious gingerbread is a breeze, and a few simple tips can help ensure your results are perfect every time!

• Use fresh spices – Spices like ginger lose their potency over time. Freshly purchased spices will give your gingerbread a robust flavor that truly shines.
• Measure your flour accurately – Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down. This will keep your gingerbread light and fluffy.
• Let the batter rest – Allowing the batter to sit for a few minutes before baking can enhance the texture. It gives the flour time to hydrate, leading to a softer crumb.
• Check for doneness – Ovens can vary, so check your gingerbread a minute or two before the suggested baking time. It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool before cutting – Letting the gingerbread cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing helps it set, making it easier to cut without crumbling.

How to Serve Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)

This soft molasses gingerbread is not only delightful on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds sweetness and an elegant touch to your gingerbread.
• Citrus zest – Grated lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors and add a pop of color, making each slice visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream – A dairy-free alternative to traditional whipped cream, this creamy topping complements the warm spices in the gingerbread beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the gingerbread, creating a balanced dessert experience.
• Herbal tea or spiced chai – Pairing your gingerbread with a warm cup of herbal tea or spiced chai enhances its comforting qualities, making it perfect for cozy evenings.
• Vanilla ice cream or sorbet – For an indulgent treat, serve slices of gingerbread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sorbet for delightful temperature and texture contrasts.

Enjoy crafting this classic recipe while savoring every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This delightful recipe for Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and save your gingerbread for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gingerbread to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the gingerbread into squares before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove a piece from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.
• For a warm treat, heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread:

What is Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe) known for?

Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread is celebrated for its rich flavor derived from molasses and warm spices like ginger. It’s a simple yet delicious treat that captures the essence of traditional baking.

Can I make adjustments to Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup.

How should I store Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread (1800’s Recipe)?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Miss Parloa’s Soft Molasses Gingerbread! This recipe not only brings back nostalgic flavors but also creates warm memories with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, it’s sure to bring comfort and happiness. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful treat!