Gingerbread Loaves

Looking for homemade loaf? Then check out this flavourful gingerbread. This is the perfect holiday gift! ...MORE + LESS -

1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar

3/4 cup (175 mL) butter or margarine, softened

2 eggs

3/4 cup (175 mL) molasses

1 cup (250 mL) boiling water

1 tsp (5 mL) baking soda

2 3/4 cups (675 mL) all-purpose flour

2 tsp (10 mL) baking powder

4 tsp (20 mL) ground ginger

2 tsp (10 mL) ground cinnamon

1 tsp (5 mL) ground allspice

1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground cloves

1/4 tsp (1 mL) salt

1/2 cup (125 mL) icing sugar

1 to 2 tbsp (15 to 30 mL) lemon juice

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1

Heat oven to 350ºF. Grease 2 (8x4-inch) loaf pans with shortening or cooking spray. In large bowl, beat brown sugar and butter with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add eggs; beat well. In small bowl, stir molasses, water and baking soda until well mixed; beat into brown sugar mixture.
2

Gradually stir in flour and remaining bread ingredients until well blended. Spoon batter evenly into pans.
3

Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in centre comes out clean. Cool in pans on cooling rack 15 minutes; remove from pans. Cool completely, about 1 hour 15 minutes.
4

In small bowl, stir together icing sugar and enough lemon juice for desired consistency. Brush glaze over cooled loaves. Wrap tightly and store in refrigerator.

Cook's Note: Gingerbread has been a holiday specialty for centuries. During the middle ages, ladies presented this spiced bread to dashing knights going into tournament battle.
Gift Idea: Since this recipe makes two loaves, your family can enjoy one and the other can be given as a gift. Cover the loaf with plastic wrap, then wrap with decorative paper and a bright bow.