Gluten Free Gingerbread with Honey
Highlighted under: Fresh Seasonal Cooking
Delight in the warm, spicy flavors of this gluten-free gingerbread, sweetened with honey for a perfect holiday treat.
This Gluten Free Gingerbread with Honey is not only a delicious treat but also a healthier option for those avoiding gluten. The natural sweetness from honey complements the spices perfectly, making it a festive addition to your holiday table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm spices that fill your kitchen with a festive aroma
- Naturally sweetened with honey for a rich flavor
- Perfectly moist and tender, making it irresistible
The Magic of Gingerbread
Gingerbread is a timeless holiday treat that evokes memories of warmth and celebration. The combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, transporting you to cozy winter days. This gluten-free version ensures that everyone can enjoy this classic dessert, making it a staple for gatherings and family traditions.
What sets this gingerbread apart is the use of honey as a natural sweetener. Honey adds a depth of flavor that granulated sugars simply can't match. It not only sweetens the batter but also contributes to the moistness of the cake, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. The rich, golden hue of honey also enhances the visual appeal, making this gingerbread a beautiful addition to your holiday table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While gingerbread is often associated with Christmas, it can be enjoyed all year round. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself, this gluten-free gingerbread is perfect for any occasion. Its versatile nature allows it to be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or even topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Additionally, this recipe is easy to customize. You can experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to create variations that suit your taste. The possibilities are endless, making this gingerbread a fantastic base for your culinary creativity.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, this gluten-free gingerbread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead treat. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it for longer, consider freezing individual pieces. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or warmed in the microwave for a quick treat.
For serving, consider pairing this gingerbread with a hot cup of tea or coffee to enhance the sensory experience. The spices in the gingerbread complement the warmth of the beverages beautifully. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of spiced apples or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious gingerbread.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start baking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your gingerbread.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the honey, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Bake the Gingerbread
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the gingerbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.
Enjoy your homemade gluten-free gingerbread!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider icing the gingerbread with a simple powdered sugar glaze or topping it with chopped nuts.
Why Gluten-Free?
Many people are opting for gluten-free diets, whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply a desire for healthier eating. This gluten-free gingerbread recipe allows everyone to indulge in a beloved holiday treat without compromising their dietary needs. Using gluten-free all-purpose flour ensures that the texture remains light and fluffy, mimicking traditional gingerbread while being safe for those avoiding gluten.
Moreover, gluten-free baking can introduce you to a variety of flours, such as almond or coconut flour, which offer different flavors and nutritional benefits. Experimenting with these can expand your baking repertoire and provide delicious alternatives for various recipes.
Nutritional Benefits of Honey
Honey is not just a natural sweetener; it also comes with an array of health benefits. Known for its antioxidant properties, honey can help combat oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, it has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthier choice compared to refined sugars.
When used in baking, honey not only sweetens but also adds moisture, which is particularly beneficial in gluten-free recipes. This makes your gingerbread not only tasty but also a little healthier, allowing you to enjoy your treats with less guilt.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or agave syrup for honey in equal amounts.
→ How should I store the gingerbread?
Store the gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this gingerbread?
Yes, you can freeze the gingerbread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
→ What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
Consider adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Gluten Free Gingerbread with Honey
Delight in the warm, spicy flavors of this gluten-free gingerbread, sweetened with honey for a perfect holiday treat.
What You'll Need
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the honey, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the gingerbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cut into squares and serve.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider icing the gingerbread with a simple powdered sugar glaze or topping it with chopped nuts.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g