If you’re looking for a traditional French treat with a seasonal twist, this Soft Gingerbread with Orange recipe is the perfect choice. Infused with warm spices and a hint of fresh orange, this moist and flavorful loaf is ideal for winter mornings or as a snack with tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 large egg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- Melt honey, sugar, and butter: In a small saucepan, heat the honey, brown sugar, and butter over low heat until fully melted and combined. Remove from heat and stir in the milk. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the honey mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Add the orange zest, orange juice, and the egg. Mix until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the gingerbread to cool before removing from the pan. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange glaze for extra flavor.
Pro Tips:
- For an extra orange kick, you can prepare a simple orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and drizzling it over the cooled loaf.
- This Pain d’Épices can also be stored for a few days, and its flavor improves over time!
This soft gingerbread loaf recipe, enhanced with the zest and juice of fresh oranges, makes for a delightful treat during the colder months. Enjoy!