Name: Spiced Gingerbread Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground ginger; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2/3 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2/3 cup unsulphured molasses; 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk); 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

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Spiced Gingerbread Loaf is the kind of cozy, aromatic bake that instantly fills my kitchen with the warm scent of the holidays. It’s rich with molasses, packed with warming spices, and perfectly moist with a tender crumb. Whether I’m serving it for breakfast with coffee, gifting it during the holidays, or sneaking a slice for dessert, this loaf always feels like a comforting treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it gives me all the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread in an easy, sliceable loaf. It’s simple to make, no mixer required, and the bold mix of spices makes every bite feel warm and festive. It also keeps beautifully for days and tastes even better the next day. I often double the recipe—one to enjoy and one to gift. Spiced Gingerbread Loaf

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Ground ginger
Ground cinnamon
Ground cloves
Nutmeg
Salt
Unsalted butter, melted
Brown sugar
Eggs
Molasses
Milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In a separate bowl, I whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, molasses, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined—being careful not to overmix.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf (about 8–10 slices).
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped crystallized ginger for extra zing or fold in a handful of chopped nuts or dried cranberries. For a sweeter finish, I drizzle the loaf with a simple vanilla glaze or dust it with powdered sugar. I’ve also used orange zest in the batter for a citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It actually gets more flavorful after a day or two. To freeze, I wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, I warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast it lightly for a crisp edge. Spiced Gingerbread Loaf

FAQs

What kind of molasses should I use?

I use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor—not blackstrap, which is too bitter for baking. It gives the loaf that deep, classic gingerbread taste.

Can I make this loaf dairy-free?

Yes, I use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Why did my loaf crack on top?

A crack is totally normal in quick breads. It happens when the top sets before the center is finished rising—just part of the charm.

Can I make muffins with this batter?

Yes, I divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18–22 minutes. They make great portable treats.

How do I know when it’s done?

I insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. I also check that the top springs back when lightly pressed.

Conclusion

Spiced Gingerbread Loaf is a timeless, comforting bake that brings warmth to any season, though it’s especially welcome during the holidays. With its bold flavors, moist crumb, and beautiful aroma, it’s one of those recipes I come back to year after year. Whether I’m sharing it or keeping it all for myself, it always delivers that cozy homemade magic.