Delightful Mini Gingerbread Loaves with Cream Cheese Frosting

Short Description

These delightful mini gingerbread loaves are the perfect holiday treat, combining warm spices, rich molasses, and a moist, tender crumb. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, they make for a festive dessert or a cozy afternoon indulgence. The individual portions also make them ideal for gift-giving or holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly spiced: A balance of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives these loaves an authentic, warming flavor.
• Moist and tender: The combination of molasses and brown sugar keeps the loaves soft and flavorful.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Creamy, tangy frosting: The cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the spiced cake.
• Great for gifting: Mini loaves make charming homemade presents during the holidays.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Whole milk
• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour mini loaf pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the molasses, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition.
5. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Fill the loaf pans: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini loaf pans, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the loaves: Let them rest in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the frosting: Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.
10. Frost the loaves: Spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled loaves. Optionally, garnish with cinnamon, chopped nuts, or festive sprinkles.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a touch of sweetness.
• Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor with orange or lemon zest.
• Maple Frosting: Replace heavy cream with maple syrup in the frosting for a richer taste.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 mini loaves

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store unfrosted loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Refrigeration: Frosted loaves should be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Reheating: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I make these in a regular loaf pan?

Yes, you can bake this recipe in a standard loaf pan, but the baking time will increase to about 45-50 minutes.

2. Can I use dark molasses instead of regular?

Yes, but it will result in a deeper, more robust flavor. If using blackstrap molasses, reduce the amount slightly as it is more bitter.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the batter immediately, but you can store it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

4. What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

A simple vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar works well as an alternative.

5. How do I prevent the loaves from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake and store them properly in an airtight container.

6. Can I add raisins or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates make a great addition.

7. What type of molasses is best for gingerbread?

Use unsulphured molasses for the best balance of sweetness and depth of flavor.

8. Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk work well as substitutes.

9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly denser.

10. How can I make these more festive?

Top with sugared cranberries, edible glitter, or festive sprinkles for a holiday touch.

Conclusion

These mini gingerbread loaves with cream cheese frosting are a delicious and festive treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful homemade gifts. Their warm spices, moist texture, and creamy frosting make them irresistible. Try them today and share the joy of homemade baking with family and friends!

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