Sweetest Hobby

Christmas has its own unique scents and flavors that transport us to magical moments, and one of the stars of this experience is the traditional gingerbread loaf. Inspired by the legendary German “peppercakes,” whose history dates back to 1296, this recipe is a special one. Every slice carries a piece of European tradition, perfected over centuries by skilled hands guarding their secrets. Here, we bring you a version that preserves the essence of Christmas: the perfect mix of warm spices, a soft texture, and an unmistakable aroma. Try this recipe and let the Christmas spirit fill your kitchen!

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2½ teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup butter, room temperature (preferably unsalted Irish butter)
• 3 eggs
• 2 cups apple sauce (preferably homemade without sugar)

Instructions: 

1. Preheat Oven:
   – Before you start, ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
   – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. Combine Sugar and Butter:
   – In a separate bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and butter until smooth and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs:
   – Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients and Applesauce Alternately:
   – Add about half of the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
   – Then add one cup of the applesauce and mix until integrated.
   – Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients, followed by the remaining cup of applesauce. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
6. Transfer and Bake:
   – Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
   – Bake for about 40-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Ice:
   – Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
   – Once completely cool, you can apply the royal icing if desired.

Homemade Applesauce

 Ingredients

• 2 red apples, peeled and chopped
• 1 green apple, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup of water
• Juice of 1 lemon (preferably Sicilian lemon)

Instructions

1. Place the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender.
3. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the cooked apples until smooth.
4. Let it cool before using in recipes.

Royal Icing (Optional)

Ingredients

• 100 g pasteurized egg whites
• 5 ml lemon juice
• 255 g powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Once cooled, apply the royal icing as desired. 
2. In a medium bowl, beat the pasteurized egg whites and lemon juice until frothy.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the icing becomes thick and forms stiff peaks.
4. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes – Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. – Customize your icing with flavors or colors to make your gingerbread loaf unique.

Enjoy! 

From my kitchen to yours,

Ana Raquel.