Who says you can't enjoy the taste of autumn year-round? With this pumpkin gingerbread delight, you can. This recipe perfectly blends the sweetness of pumpkin with the spicy warmth of gingerbread for a comforting treat.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are fairly common and might be readily available in your pantry. However, you might need to purchase a few items such as unsulphured molasses, which is a type of sweetener derived from sugarcane, and candied ginger, which is ginger cooked in sugar syrup. Both can be found in the baking or spice aisle of most supermarkets.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
All purpose flour: It's a versatile type of flour used in most baking recipes.
Salt: Enhances other flavors.
Baking soda: Helps the gingerbread to rise.
Ground ginger: Provides the key flavor for gingerbread.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and sweetness.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a spicy sweet flavor.
Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and sweetness.
Butter: Adds richness and helps in leavening.
Dark brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel or toffee-like flavor.
Unsulphured molasses: Provides sweetness and moisture.
Candied ginger: Gives a sweet, spicy kick.
Eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
Water: Thins the batter.
Raisins: Adds a sweet, fruity element.
One reader, Arte Blackwell says:
This pumpkin gingerbread delight is a game-changer! The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a heavenly aroma, and the moist, flavorful texture is simply irresistible. It's the perfect treat for fall, and I can't get enough of it. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a delicious, comforting dessert.
Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
How to prepare the loaf pan: Grease the loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter to prevent the pumpkin gingerbread from sticking to the pan.
How to combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix the batter.
How to check for doneness: Insert a bamboo skewer into the center of the loaf to check for doneness. If it comes out clean, the pumpkin gingerbread is ready. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
How to cool the loaf: Allow the pumpkin gingerbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before gently running a knife around the edge and inverting the loaf to remove it from the pan. Let it cool completely on a rack before slicing.
How to store the loaf: To enhance the flavor, store the cooled pumpkin gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for a day before slicing. If sliced while still warm, use a bread knife to prevent crumbly slices.
How To Make Pumpkin Gingerbread
A soft, moist treat perfect for the holidays, this pumpkin gingerbread brims with the sweet spice of cinnamon and ginger. Add raisins for extra treats!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupsall purpose flour
- ½tspsalt
- 1tspbaking soda
- 2tspground ginger
- 1½tspground cinnamon
- ¼tspground nutmeg
- 1cuppumpkin purée,canned or homemade
- ½cupbutter,(1 stick), melted
- ½cupdark brown sugar
- ½cupunsulphured molasses,not blackstrap which can be too bitter
- 1tbspfinely minced candied,or fresh ginger, optional
- 2eggs,beaten
- 3tbspwater
- ½cupraisins,optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray or butter to keep the pumpkin gingerbread from sticking to the pan.
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In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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In another bowl, use a wooden spoon to mix together the pumpkin purée, melted butter, sugar, molasses, fresh or candied ginger, eggs, and water.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Add the raisins if using. Stir only until incorporated.
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Place the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 50 to 60 minutes, until a bamboo skewer inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
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Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then gently run a knife around the edge of the loaf and invert the loaf to remove it from the pan. Let it cool on a rack completely before slicing.
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The loaf’s flavor will improve with time. If cut while it is still a bit warm, it may be crumbly. In which case, make the slices with a bread knife.
Nutrition
- Calories: 2708.08kcal
- Fat: 103.66g
- Saturated Fat: 61.96g
- Trans Fat: 3.75g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 27.39g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.06g
- Carbohydrates: 424.02g
- Fiber: 17.54g
- Sugar: 248.36g
- Protein: 36.65g
- Cholesterol: 563.95mg
- Sodium: 2331.32mg
- Calcium: 655.11mg
- Potassium: 4023.96mg
- Iron: 24.53mg
- Vitamin A: 2820.72µg
- Vitamin C: 12.15mg
Technique Tip for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
When incorporating the raisins into the batter, you might want to consider soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes prior. This will plump them up, making them juicier and more flavorful. It also prevents them from drawing moisture from the pumpkin gingerbread, ensuring that your loaf stays moist and delicious. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry before adding to the batter.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delightful Treat
Plan ahead: Pre-measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Use canned pumpkin: Opt for canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh pumpkin to save time on preparation.
Multi-task: While the pumpkin gingerbread is baking, use that time to clean up your kitchen and prepare other dishes.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools like a good whisk, mixing bowls, and loaf pan can make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Make a double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing one loaf for later. This way, you'll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy without the extra effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients to the gingerbread delight.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor and works well in baking recipes as a butter substitute.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, sweet flavor and works well as a natural sweetener in baked goods.
unsulphured molasses - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar depth of flavor and sweetness to the gingerbread delight.
candied ginger - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can add a warm, spicy flavor similar to candied ginger.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the gingerbread delight.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can add a tart and sweet flavor, complementing the pumpkin and spices in the recipe.
Best Way to Present Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pumpkin gingerbread delight, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers and candied ginger as garnishes to add a pop of color and sophistication to the plate.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by serving the pumpkin gingerbread delight with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. This will provide a contrast to the moist and dense gingerbread, creating a more dynamic eating experience.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the pumpkin gingerbread to be the focal point. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive garnishes or accompaniments, and instead, let the simplicity of the dessert speak for itself.
Play with height: Experiment with the presentation by stacking individual slices of the pumpkin gingerbread delight on top of each other, creating a vertical element on the plate. This adds visual interest and showcases the layers of the dessert.
Artful drizzling: Drizzle a caramel sauce or spiced glaze in an artistic manner on the plate to add a touch of decadence and flavor. The drizzle should be purposeful and complement the flavors of the gingerbread without overpowering it.
Use elegant serveware: Select elegant and refined serveware to complement the upscale presentation of the pumpkin gingerbread delight. Opt for fine china or artisanal ceramic plates to elevate the dining experience for the esteemed guests.
Essential Tools for Making This Delightful Recipe
- Oven: You will need an oven to bake the pumpkin gingerbread delight.
- 9x5x3-inch loaf pan: This pan is used to bake the gingerbread loaf.
- Non-stick spray or butter: Use non-stick spray or butter to prepare the loaf pan and prevent the gingerbread from sticking.
- Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is used to whisk together the dry ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: This is used to mix the wet ingredients together.
- Bamboo skewer: A bamboo skewer is used to check the doneness of the gingerbread loaf.
- Knife: You will need a knife to gently run around the edge of the loaf and to slice the gingerbread.
- Rack: A cooling rack is used to let the gingerbread loaf cool completely.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
- Let the pumpkin gingerbread cool completely before storing. This will prevent moisture from building up and making the bread soggy.
- Wrap the cooled gingerbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
- Store the wrapped gingerbread at room temperature for up to 5 days. It will stay moist and flavorful during this time.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the pumpkin gingerbread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date so you can keep track of how long it's been frozen.
- Freeze the gingerbread for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you want to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab a slice or two whenever you want a tasty treat.
- To reheat frozen gingerbread, wrap it in foil and place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a few seconds to warm them up.
How to Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
To reheat leftover pumpkin gingerbread in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the gingerbread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the gingerbread from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the pumpkin gingerbread in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 20-30 seconds. If it's not warm enough, continue heating in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the gingerbread tough.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and texture to your leftover pumpkin gingerbread, try toasting it. Slice the gingerbread and place it in a toaster or under the broiler for a minute or two, until it's lightly crisp on the outside but still soft on the inside. This method works particularly well if you plan to serve the gingerbread with a spread like butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam.
For a more indulgent treat, you can transform your leftover pumpkin gingerbread into a delightful French toast. Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Dip the gingerbread slices into the mixture and cook them on a buttered skillet over medium heat until they're golden brown on both sides. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a truly indulgent breakfast or dessert.
Random Fact About Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
The pumpkin gingerbread delight is a perfect treat for the fall season. It combines the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg with the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin. This delightful dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Enjoying this pumpkin gingerbread can be a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, especially for those who may not be fond of eating them in their traditional form.
Is Making Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight at Home Economical?
This pumpkin gingerbread delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a delicious and satisfying treat. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an affordable option for a homemade dessert. The warm flavors of pumpkin, ginger, and spices make this a delightful choice for fall or winter gatherings. I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for its simplicity, affordability, and delightful taste.
Is This Delightful Treat Healthy or Unhealthy?
The pumpkin gingerbread delight recipe contains some healthy ingredients, such as pumpkin puree, which is rich in vitamins A and C, and spices like ginger and cinnamon that have anti-inflammatory properties. However, the recipe also includes less healthy components, such as butter, dark brown sugar, and molasses, which contribute to its high sugar and fat content. While using all-purpose flour, the recipe misses out on the benefits of whole grain flours that provide more fiber and nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt or applesauce to lower the fat content
- Cut back on the dark brown sugar and molasses, and instead rely more on the natural sweetness of the pumpkin puree and raisins
- Include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add healthy fats and protein to the recipe
- Experiment with using honey or maple syrup as a more natural sweetener alternative
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe
The combination of pumpkin and gingerbread in this recipe creates a delightful and comforting treat. The warm spices and rich molasses perfectly complement the earthy sweetness of the pumpkin. The addition of raisins adds a burst of sweetness and texture. The method of mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately ensures a well-balanced and moist loaf. The use of candied ginger adds a delightful pop of flavor. Overall, this pumpkin gingerbread delight is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a wonderful addition to any fall or holiday gathering.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to This Delightful Treat
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Pumpkin Gingerbread Delight
Why trust this Pumpkin Gingerbread Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful fusion of pumpkin and gingerbread, creating a harmonious blend of warm spices and rich flavors. The combination of pumpkin puree and molasses ensures a moist and tender texture, while the aromatic blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuses the loaf with a comforting aroma. The addition of candied ginger and raisins provides delightful bursts of sweetness and texture. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a delectable treat that embodies the essence of the fall season.
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