Go Back
–+ servings
Gingerbread Loaf

Irresistibly Moist Gingerbread Loaf with Creamy Frosting

This Gingerbread Loaf is a festive, moist delight enhanced with creamy frosting, perfect for the holidays.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Baked Goods
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Loaf
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with a gluten-free blend.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure freshness for the perfect rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Table salt can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger Fresh ginger can work but may alter texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Swap for pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Using freshly grated elevates the taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves Omit if you're in a hurry.
  • 1 large Egg Room temperature preferred; flax egg as a vegan alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla is best.
  • 1/2 cup Butter Room temperature; dairy-free options can work.
  • 1 cup Light Brown Sugar Substituting with granulated may yield drier loaf.
  • 1/2 cup Molasses Honey or maple syrup can serve as alternatives.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Room temperature; vinegar can be mixed with milk as a substitute.
For the Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 1/2 cup Brown Butter Use unsalted butter for best results.
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened to room temperature.
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted ensures a smooth texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Same high-quality as in the loaf.
  • 1 pinch Salt Balances the sweetness.

Equipment

  • Loaf Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Hand Mixer
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a one-pound loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and vanilla. Cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then add molasses and the egg mixture, stirring gently.
  4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
  5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Cool in the pan for 20 minutes on a wire rack, then remove and cool completely.
  7. Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan until golden, then mix with cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
  8. Once the loaf is cool, spread the frosting generously over the top for a delightful presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better emulsification. Don't overmix for a lighter loaf. Store loaves tightly wrapped to retain moisture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!