First Prize Gingerbread

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Servings: 10 servings Difficulty: Advanced
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A rich, spiced molasses loaf with bright orange notes and a warm brandy finish.
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First Prize Gingerbread

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 10 servings Calories: 1373.1

Description

This award-winning gingerbread cake is a festive classic that balances deep, earthy molasses flavors with the bright zest of fresh orange. The batter is enriched with butter and eggs, then spiced with a robust blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, mace, and nutmeg for a complex aromatic profile. A splash of brandy adds an adult warmth, while plump raisins provide chewy bursts of sweetness in every bite. The texture is dense yet moist, holding together beautifully when sliced. It is an ideal centerpiece for holiday breakfasts, afternoon tea, or as a comforting dessert on cold winter evenings. Simple enough for weeknight baking but impressive enough for special gatherings, this recipe delivers consistent, bakery-quality results.

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line muffin tins with paper cups.
  2. In a small bowl, toss the raisins with a tablespoon of flour to coat them, then set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the molasses, warm milk, ground ginger, cinnamon, mace, and nutmeg until smooth.
  5. Stir in the brandy.
  6. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are very light and thick.
  7. Sift together the flour and cream of tartar into another bowl.
  8. Alternately add the flour mixture and the beaten eggs to the sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the flour, mixing until just combined after each addition.
  9. Mix in the orange juice and grated orange rind.
  10. Dissolve the baking soda in 1/4 cup of warm water.
  11. Stir the baking soda solution into the batter and beat until the mixture is light.
  12. Fold in the floured raisins.
  13. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s).
  14. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Muffins may bake in less time, so check early.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10 servings

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1373.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 32.0g50%
Saturated Fat 17.5g88%
Cholesterol 211.0mg71%
Sodium 289.2mg13%
Total Carbohydrate 226.8g76%
Dietary Fiber 6.4g26%
Sugars 88.2g
Protein 26.1g53%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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