Amazing Spiced Gingerbread Loaf Recipe (Holiday Smells)

This spiced gingerbread loaf is fast to mix and fills the kitchen with holiday aroma. It’s ideal for busy mornings, last-minute gifts, or a simple dessert that looks homemade. The recipe keeps things straightforward while delivering classic gingerbread flavor without fuss. For more quick meal ideas and inspiration, check this quick recipe guide.

Why This Recipe Works

This loaf balances convenience and taste by using pantry staples and a single-bowl approach for the wet ingredients. Creaming the butter and sugars adds air for a tender crumb without extra steps. Molasses brings deep flavor and natural moisture so the bread stays soft for days. The quick bake time and a single 9×5 pan mean minimal cleanup and no special equipment. It’s reliable: the baking soda reacts with the molasses and brown sugar to give a gentle rise and a tight, moist texture. The method avoids overmixing to keep the crumb light but not cakey. If you want a broader collection of speedy recipes to pair with this loaf, see this quick recipe guide.

Flavor and Texture

Expect warm notes of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg on every slice. The dark brown sugar and molasses create a caramellike backbone that complements the spices without overpowering them. Butter and egg provide richness while the milk keeps the loaf tender and sliceable. When fully cooled, the vanilla glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish that brightens the spiced profile. This loaf slices cleanly for toast, dessert, or a quick snack with coffee.

Ingredients

• 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 ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Vanilla Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Stir in the molasses, milk, and vanilla extract until just combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. While the loaf cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
11. Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use room temperature ingredients to speed up mixing and ensure even texture. Swap whole milk for a plant milk if preferred — the loaf still stays moist. If you’re short on time, microwave the butter briefly to soften it, or use a stand mixer to cream sugars faster. Test doneness with a skewer after 55 minutes to avoid overbaking; cover loosely with foil if the top browns too fast. For easy serving, slice the loaf once fully cool and warm slices lightly in a toaster or oven for a fresh-baked feel.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store the cooled loaf wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days. For longer life, refrigerate up to one week or freeze individual slices in a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw slices at room temperature or reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven. The glaze holds up well in the fridge but can soften; add a quick drizzle of extra glaze when serving if desired.

Short Closing Note

This gingerbread loaf gives fast, classic flavor with minimal effort. It’s a great go-to for busy days when you still want something homemade and comforting.

Conclusion

For another classic take and extra baking notes, see this Classic Gingerbread Loaf – My Suburban Kitchen.

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