Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing Recipe: A Perfect Holiday Treat

Gingerbread has always been a quintessential holiday flavor, blending sweet and spicy notes into a cozy, comforting experience. When combined with a bright and tangy lemon icing, the result is a moist, flavorful loaf cake that will delight your taste buds and make your home smell heavenly. This gingerbread loaf with lemon icing is the perfect dessert for any time of year, but especially during the holiday season, when gingerbread flavors shine the brightest.

What Is Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing?

Gingerbread loaf with lemon icing is a moist, spiced loaf cake made with warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze. It combines the earthy, comforting taste of gingerbread with the zingy freshness of lemon, making it a delightful treat for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert to enjoy at home.

This loaf is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and deliciously satisfying. The warm spices of ginger and cinnamon provide depth, while the tangy lemon icing brings a refreshing contrast that elevates the flavor profile to something extraordinary.

Origin of Gingerbread Loaf

Gingerbread is a treat that has been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations. The use of ginger in baking is believed to have originated in the ancient Middle East, where it was used not only for flavor but also for medicinal purposes. Over time, gingerbread recipes spread across Europe, particularly in Germany and the United Kingdom, where it became a beloved holiday treat.

The modern version of gingerbread loaf likely evolved from these traditional recipes, blending the rich flavors of ginger and spices with a moist, tender crumb. The addition of lemon icing is a more contemporary twist, adding a bright, refreshing layer of flavor that balances the richness of the gingerbread.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing

This gingerbread loaf recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful loaf. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Gingerbread Loaf

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the loaf, providing structure.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger – The main spice that gives gingerbread its signature warmth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a rich, aromatic depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – A fragrant spice that complements the ginger and cinnamon.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – For a subtle, warm note.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the loaf rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the spices and balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) – For richness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• 3/4 cup molasses (not blackstrap) – The key ingredient for the rich flavor of gingerbread.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 cup hot water – Used to create steam, ensuring a tender and moist crumb.
• 1/4 cup fresh ginger (grated, optional for extra kick) – Adds a fresh, zesty kick to the loaf.

For the Lemon Icing

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and helps form a smooth glaze.
• 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds the tangy, refreshing flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Enhances the lemon flavor with an aromatic, citrusy note.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened) – Gives the icing a creamy texture.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness of the icing.

Step-by-Step Directions for Preparing Gingerbread Loaf

Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Make the Gingerbread Batter

4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Molasses and Egg: Add the molasses and egg, beating until well combined.
6. Add Fresh Ginger: If you’re using fresh ginger, stir it into the batter for a zesty boost.
7. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the hot water. Start by adding 1/3 of the flour mixture, then mix in 1/2 cup of hot water, followed by another 1/3 of the flour mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are combined.

Bake the Loaf

8. Pour the Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
9. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
10. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Lemon Icing

11. Sift Powdered Sugar: In a medium bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps.
12. Add Butter and Lemon Zest: Beat in the softened butter, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
13. Add Lemon Juice: Gradually add the lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches the desired consistency. The icing should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to drizzle over the loaf.
14. Adjust Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add more lemon juice. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Finish and Serve

15. Ice the Loaf: Once the loaf has cooled completely, drizzle or spread the lemon icing over the top.
16. Set the Icing: Let the icing set for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Loaf

Ingredient Notes

• Molasses: Use light or dark molasses for the best flavor, but avoid blackstrap molasses as it’s too bitter for this recipe.
• Fresh Ginger: If you want an extra spicy kick, fresh ginger is a great addition.
• Hot Water: The hot water creates steam, ensuring the loaf stays moist and tender.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, egg, and other ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

Baking Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense loaf.
• Test for Doneness: Check with a toothpick to ensure the loaf is cooked through. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Cool Completely: Allow the loaf to cool completely before icing, as warm cake can make the icing too runny.

Icing Tips

• Consistency: The icing should be thick enough to stay on top of the loaf without running off but still thin enough to drizzle.
• Adjust Lemon Balance: Add lemon juice gradually to adjust the tartness to your liking.
• Smooth Icing: Always sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.

Flavor Variations

Spice Alternatives

• Chai Spiced: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for a more aromatic, spicy loaf.
• Orange Spice: Replace some of the ginger with orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Extra Spicy: Double the fresh ginger and add a pinch of cayenne for a bold flavor.

Icing Variations

• Orange Icing: Swap out the lemon for orange juice and zest for a bright, citrusy glaze.
• Cream Cheese Icing: Beat 4 oz of cream cheese with powdered sugar and lemon juice for a creamy, tangy topping.
• Maple Icing: Use maple syrup instead of lemon juice for a sweet and earthy glaze.
• Vanilla Glaze: Replace lemon with vanilla extract and milk for a smooth, classic glaze.

Add-ins

• Crystallized Ginger: Add 1/3 cup of chopped crystallized ginger for an extra burst of flavor.
• Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Dried Fruit: Add 1/3 cup of chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.

Storage and Serving

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store the loaf at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerated: It will last up to 1 week in the fridge.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly and freeze for up to 3 months (without icing).
• Icing: Add the icing just before serving if storing the loaf long-term.

Serving Suggestions

• Warm: Warm slices of gingerbread loaf and serve with butter for a comforting treat.
• Tea Time: Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
• Dessert: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Holiday Treat: This loaf makes a beautiful addition to holiday cookie platters.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Bake Ahead: Bake the loaf 1-2 days in advance and store it tightly wrapped.
• Icing Prep: Prepare the icing the day you plan to serve the loaf for the best consistency.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake and freeze the loaf unfrosted for easy make-ahead options.
• Gift-Giving: Wrap the loaf in cellophane with a ribbon for a lovely homemade gift.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

• Dense Loaf: Ensure you don’t overmix the batter, and measure your flour correctly.
• Dry Texture: Avoid overbaking the loaf and check your oven temperature.
• Sunken Center: This could be due to overbaking or an oven that is too hot.
• Icing Too Thin: Add more powdered sugar to thicken the icing.
• Icing Too Thick: Add lemon juice 1 teaspoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.

Texture Problems

• Gummy Texture: This happens when the batter is overmixed, leading to dense loaf.
• Crumbly Loaf: You may have used too much flour or not enough liquid.
• Uneven Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Nutritional Notes of Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing

• Molasses Benefits: Molasses is rich in iron and essential minerals, adding both flavor and nutrition to your loaf.
• Ginger Properties: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, ginger also adds warmth to the flavor.
• Portion Control: This cake is rich, so slicing it into smaller portions ensures you get satisfaction without overindulgence.

Conclusion: Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing

This gingerbread loaf with lemon icing is a delightful dessert that combines the best of warm spices with the tangy freshness of lemon. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or store it for later – either way, this gingerbread loaf is sure to impress everyone who tries it.

Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing Recipe: A Perfect Holiday Treat

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Gingerbread loaf with lemon icing is a moist, spiced loaf cake made with warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze. It combines the earthy, comforting taste of gingerbread with the zingy freshness of lemon, making it a delightful treat for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or a simple dessert to enjoy at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Gingerbread Loaf

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup molasses (not blackstrap)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup hot water
• 1/4 cup fresh ginger (grated, optional for extra kick)

For the Lemon Icing

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Prepare pan: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper
3. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt

Make the Gingerbread Batter

4. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes)
5. Add molasses and egg: Beat in molasses and egg until well combined
6. Add fresh ginger: If using, stir in grated fresh ginger
7. Alternate wet and dry:
   • Add 1/3 of flour mixture, mix until just combined
   • Add 1/2 cup hot water, mix gently
   • Add another 1/3 flour mixture, mix
   • Add remaining 1/2 cup hot water, mix
   • Add final 1/3 flour mixture, mix until just combined

Bake the Loaf

8. Pour batter: Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan
9. Bake: 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean
10. Cool: Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack to cool completely

Make the Lemon Icing

11. Sift sugar: Sift powdered sugar into a medium bowl
12. Add wet ingredients: Beat in softened butter, lemon zest, and salt
13. Add lemon juice: Gradually add lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached
14. Adjust: Should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to drizzle

Finish and Serve

15. Ice the loaf: Once completely cool, drizzle or spread lemon icing over the top
16. Set: Let icing set for 15-20 minutes before slicing

Notes

For a cozy twist, serve the gingerbread loaf slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The lemon icing adds brightness, but you can also dust with powdered sugar for a lighter finish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: Moderate

Keywords: Gingerbread Loaf with Lemon Icing Recipe