Gingerbread | Made by Meaghan Moineau
**Title: "Grandma's Timeless Gingerbread: A Warm Slice of Family Tradition"**
**Description:** Dive into the rich, aromatic world of gingerbread with this classic recipe that has been lovingly passed down through generations. Infused with the comforting flavors of molasses and spices, this gingerbread is not just a dessert—it's a piece of family history. Perfect for creating new memories or reliving cherished ones, this recipe is simple enough for a cozy weekend bake and special enough for festive gatherings.
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There's something magical about the smell of gingerbread baking in the oven. For me, it immediately conjures up memories of my grandmother's kitchen, a warm haven filled with the symphony of spices and laughter. Every holiday season, my family comes together to recreate Grandma’s legendary gingerbread, a tradition that binds us across time and generations.
**Ingredients:**
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup salad oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon soda
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
**Instructions:**
1. **Begin the Journey:** Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, combine the molasses, salad oil, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together these ingredients, allowing their fragrances to mingle and fill the air with nostalgia.
2. **Add a Touch of Love:** Crack in the eggs and beat the mixture until smooth. This step was always my favorite as a child, eagerly watching the transformation under Grandma's expert hands.
3. **The Secret Ingredient:** Dissolve the soda in 1/8 cup of boiling water, then stir it into the mixture. This little trick was Grandma’s secret to creating a perfectly airy texture.
4. **Create the Canvas:** Gradually add the flour and the remaining water, stirring gently. The batter will be thin, but don't worry—it's exactly how it should be.
5. **Bake to Perfection:** Pour the batter into a 9"x13" pan and bake until done. The anticipation builds as the spicy aroma wafts through every corner of the house.
6. **Optional Glaze:** To add an extra layer of decadence, prepare the glaze. Melt 1 stick of butter in a saucepan, add 1/4 cup milk and 1 cup brown sugar, and bring to a boil. Let it bubble away for about four minutes before drizzling generously over the gingerbread.
**Nostalgic Memory:**
One chilly afternoon, as the snowflakes danced outside, I sat by the kitchen table watching Grandma prepare her famous gingerbread. She shared stories of her childhood, her eyes twinkling with joy. Each slice of gingerbread was a gateway to the past, a comforting reminder of the enduring bonds of family. There was something inherently special about knowing that this simple recipe had brought warmth to so many generations before me.
**Difficulty Rating:** 3/10
**Classification:** Dessert
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Whether served hot with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoyed cold with a steaming cup of tea, this gingerbread is more than just a dessert; it's a testament to the enduring power of family traditions. As you bake, may the memories of loved ones fill your heart and home with warmth and cheer. Happy baking!