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Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves

As the chilly winds begin to usher in the warmth of the holiday season, nothing more pleasantly captures the essence of comfort than the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread wafting through your home. These Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves will not only transport you back to childhood memories of festive celebrations, but they will also delight your palate with their rich spices and comforting sweetness.

Perfectly sized for sharing or enjoying solo, these loaves are crafted to hold the warmth and joy of the season in every slice. With savory ginger, aromatic cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg, each bite promises to fill your heart—and belly—with cheer. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a delightful treat to enjoy by the fire, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of spices gives the loaves a luscious, warm flavor that stands out among typical desserts.
Perfect Portion Size: Mini loaves make it easy to serve at gatherings or enjoy as a personal treat without guilt.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or an afternoon snack, these loaves fit beautifully into any setting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves

Creating an enticing batch of Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves is easier than you think. Follow these steps to bring the delightful flavors and comforting textures of gingerbread into your kitchen.

Ingredients

Let’s gather all the necessary components to whip up these delightful mini loaves:

2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, unbleached and sifted
1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup (220g) packed dark brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
½ cup (120ml) unsulphured dark molasses
¼ cup (60ml) hot water or freshly brewed hot coffee
¼ cup (60ml) good quality non-alcoholic gin alternative
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
3-4 tablespoons (45-60ml) good quality non-alcoholic gin alternative
A pinch of fine sea salt

Directions

Now that we have our ingredients at the ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these steps for perfectly spiced mini gingerbread loaves that are sure to charm anyone who tries them.

Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour 8-10 mini loaf pan cavities (approximately 3×5 inches each), or line with parchment paper inserts for easy removal.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, freshly grated nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to ensure even distribution of spices and leavening agents. Set aside.
Prepare Molasses Mixture: In a separate small, heatproof bowl or measuring cup, combine the dark molasses, hot water (or hot coffee), and the ¼ cup of the non-alcoholic gin alternative. Stir well until the molasses is fully dissolved and thoroughly combined with the liquids. The heat helps the molasses blend seamlessly.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter and packed dark brown sugar on medium-high speed for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably paler in color. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure consistent blending.
Add Eggs and Liquids: Reduce the mixer speed to medium-low. Add in the large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Pour the molasses-non-alcoholic gin alternative-water mixture from the previous step, along with the vanilla extract, while the mixer runs on low speed. Mix until just combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on the lowest speed or by hand with a spatula, slowly begin adding your dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture in three additions. Mix only until streaks of flour disappear after each addition. Do not overmix; stop as soon as the flour is just incorporated.
Fill Pans: Divide the mixture evenly among your prepared mini loaf pans, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to allow for proper rising.
Bake Loaves: Carefully transfer the filled mini loaf pans to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. They are done when a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The loaves should be golden brown and spring back lightly when gently pressed.
Cool Loaves: Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let the loaves cool in their pans for about 10-15 minutes on a wire rack. After this initial cooling, carefully invert the pans to remove the loaves onto the wire rack, allowing them to cool completely before glazing.
Prepare Non-Alcoholic Gin Glaze: While the loaves are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar and a pinch of fine sea salt. Gradually add the non-alcoholic gin alternative, starting with 3 tablespoons, whisking continuously until you achieve a smooth, pourable yet thick consistency. Adjust with more alternative (a teaspoon at a time) or powdered sugar as needed.
Glaze and Serve: Once your mini loaves are completely cool, place the wire rack with the loaves over a baking sheet or parchment paper to catch drips. Drizzle the non-alcoholic gin alternative glaze generously over the top of each loaf. Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before enjoying your delicious treats!

Storage Tips for Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves

Once you’ve baked these delightful mini loaves, you’ll want to take care of them so that they stay fresh and delicious. Here are some ideal storage guidelines:

Room Temperature: Keep the mini loaves in an airtight container, at room temperature, for up to 3–4 days.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying.
Freezing: For longer storage, these mini loaves freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to 2 months.

Best Ways to Serve Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves

These charming mini loaves are not just delicious on their own but can also be served in creative ways that elevate your experience. Here are some suggestions:

With a Warm Beverage: Pair your mini loaves with a steaming cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa. The warmth of the drink complements the spiced flavors beautifully.
As Breakfast Treats: Serve slices with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast addition.
At Holiday Gatherings: For a festive flair, consider presenting the loaves on a decorative platter, garnished with sprigs of rosemary or cranberries.
With Ice Cream: Warm a slice and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.

Tips to Make Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves

Use Fresh Spices: Quality ingredients make a difference. Fresh spices will add an entirely new dimension to the flavor profile.
Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better emulsification.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in your dry ingredients to maintain moistness; overmixing can lead to dense loaves.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to put your own twist on these loaves, consider the following options:

Nut Adjustments: Add nuts, such as chopped pecans or walnuts, into the batter for additional texture and flavor.
Fruit Additions: Enhance your loaves with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness.
Spice Adjustments: Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the ground ginger slightly, or omit the cloves.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! These mini loaves can be made ahead of time. Bake them a day or two in advance, store them appropriately, and glaze just before serving.

Q: How can I ensure my loaves are moist?
A: Make sure not to overmix the batter, and always check the loaves for doneness slightly earlier than the recommended baking time.

Q: Can I substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option. The texture will slightly vary but still hold up well.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Spiced Gingerbread Loaves are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the season. They are simple to prepare and offer an irresistible balance of sweetness and warmth, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a moment of personal joy. The recipe’s versatility allows for various adaptations to suit personal tastes, ensuring everyone finds something to savor.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the enchanting aroma of gingerbread fill your kitchen. Experience the heartwarming joy of these mini loaves that are not just a dessert but a wonderful addition to your holiday memories. Happy baking!