Warm, spiced, and irresistibly cozy, this Gingerbread Loaf with Glaze is the perfect homemade treat for the holiday season and beyond. Made with classic gingerbread spices and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze, this easy loaf cake is moist, flavorful, and ideal for Christmas baking, fall desserts, or a cozy winter breakfast. Whether you’re looking for a simple gingerbread bread recipe, a festive holiday loaf, or a Pinterest-worthy seasonal dessert, this glazed gingerbread loaf is a must-bake that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and delivers bakery-style results every time.
Origin and History
The roots of gingerbread stretch back to ancient times, where it was often considered a luxurious treat in Europe. By the Middle Ages, this spiced bread had evolved into a symbol of festivity and warmth, often served on tables during Christmas and other celebrations. The tradition of gingerbread houses and inventive shapes emerged in Germany and France, later crossing the Atlantic to become a staple in American holiday baking. This loaf, a modern twist on the classic, maintains the heart of tradition while embracing simplicity and ease.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
At the heart of this gingerbread loaf is the harmonious blend of spices—ginger, with its warm, peppery undertone; cinnamon, offering sweet warmth; and nutmeg, adding a hint of nutty depth. These spices are complemented by molasses, which imparts a deep, rich sweetness and a moist texture that keeps the loaf tender for days. The glaze, a simple mixture of confectioners’ sugar and a splash of vanilla, drips over the loaf like a delicate winter frost, adding just the right touch of sweetness and visual allure. The result is a loaf that’s both comforting and festive, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring with a cup of tea by the fire.
Gingerbread Loaf with Glaze
Description
This gingerbread loaf is rich, fragrant, and topped with a sweet glaze. Perfect for winter or holiday gatherings, it brings warmth and festive cheer to your table.
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Loaf
For the Glaze
Instructions
Preparing the Batter
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Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk them together until well-blended.Make sure to sift the flour for a lighter loaf, and don't skimp on the spices—they're the heart of gingerbread! -
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.Use room temperature butter for easier creaming. The longer you cream, the lighter your loaf will be. -
Add Molasses and Eggs
Beat in the molasses and the eggs, one at a time, into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.Molasses gives the loaf its deep, rich flavor—don’t rush this step.
Combining and Baking
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender crumb. -
Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease a loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper, then pour in the batter, smoothing the top with a spatula.Lining with parchment paper makes for an easy removal post-bake. -
Bake the Loaf
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Ovens vary, so start checking at 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Finishing Touch
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Prepare the Glaze
While the loaf is baking, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to make a pourable glaze. Adjust the consistency as needed.A thicker glaze will sit on top, while a thinner one will soak into the loaf. -
Glaze the Loaf
Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides.Allow the glaze to set before slicing for neat slices.
Note
For a richer flavor, use freshly grated ginger instead of powdered ginger—be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste. Toasting the spices slightly in a dry pan before adding them to the batter can enhance their aromatic qualities. If you're aiming for a denser loaf, reduce the baking powder slightly. When making the glaze, ensure the loaf is completely cooled to prevent it from becoming runny. You can substitute heavy cream for milk in the glaze for a creamier texture. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or candied ginger on top of the glaze. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon and clove quantities slightly.