Delicious and Easy Gingerbread Squares Recipe
Are you ready to treat your taste buds to a delicious dessert that is not only scrumptious but also gluten-free? Look no further than my gingerbread squares recipe. Gingerbread is a classic holiday treat that not only evokes nostalgia but also satisfies your sweet tooth like no other.
But, as a nutritionist, I understand the importance of catering to different dietary requirements. That’s why I’ve crafted this gluten-free gingerbread recipe so that anyone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease can enjoy it too. With this recipe, you won’t have to miss out on the magic of gingerbread during the holiday season.
Now, let me tell you a little bit about what makes my gingerbread squares so special. They’re soft, chewy and bursting with flavors from warm spices such as cinnamon, cloves and ginger – perfect for those cold winter nights. Plus, they’re dairy-free too for those who have dairy allergies.
So why not take advantage of this delicious recipe and make some gingerbread squares for yourself and your loved ones? Not only will you be indulging in something sweet, but you’ll also be treating your body right by opting for healthier ingredients like oat flour instead of traditional wheat flour.
Bake them once and it will become an instant favorite that you’ll want to make over and over again. Trust me – you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Have you ever craved the warmth and comfort of a freshly baked gingerbread but couldn’t find a gluten-free version that hits the mark? Look no further! These gingerbread squares are not only gluten-free but also dairy-free, making them the perfect treat for almost any dietary requirement.
What sets these gingerbread squares apart is their perfect combination of spices. With just the right balance of ground cloves, cinnamon, and ginger, every bite truly transports you to the holiday season. The molasses in this recipe gives a subtle sweetness that complements these spices perfectly. No wonder it’s considered a classic flavor profile.
Gluten-free baking can be quite intimidating and challenging, but this recipe is different. You will find that this recipe is super easy to follow with simple ingredients readily available at any grocery store.
Not only do these gingerbread squares taste amazing, but they are also versatile. Cut them into bars or make it as a cake. Add in cranberries or chocolate chips or sprinkle over some gingerbread crumble to take them to another level. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is great for baking ahead and storing in your freezer for future cravings. You won’t even notice they were frozen before reheating. And because they’re so delicious, you’ll likely finish them off before they even have a chance to make it to storage!
So whether you’re looking for festive treats during the holidays or simply seeking comfort food on gloomy days, this gluten-free gingerbread recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your dietary needs in mind. Go ahead and indulge in these sticky and chewy gingerbread squares–you deserve it!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the ingredient list for these delicious gluten-free gingerbread squares. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups of gluten-free flour blend
- 1/4 cup of powdered milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground ginger
- 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1/2 cup of molasses
- 2/3 cup of coconut oil, melted (or other neutral oil)
- 1/4 cup of water
Note that some ingredients have specific distinctions like “gluten-free flour blend” which can be substituted with non-gluten free flour blend according to your preference. Additionally, there’s a recommendation for using powdered milk but you can make use of a plant based alternative if you practice a dairy free diet.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to learn how to create these mouth-watering gingerbread squares. This recipe is quite easy and simple, and you don’t need any special baking skills to make it.
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) and grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
Step 2: Mix dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour blend, powdered milk, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Mix wet ingredients
In another mixing bowl, beat the coconut oil, the molasses and the egg together until well combined. Once mixed well, add in the white sugar and continue to beat until they are completely dissolved.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients mixture. Keep mixing until no clumps are left in the batter.
Step 5: Pour in the pan
Pour the batter into your greased baking pan and even it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer of batter.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until fully baked. Check if done by inserting a toothpick or skewer in the middle of the mixture, if it comes out clean, then it is ready!
Step 7: Cool Down
Let it cool down completely before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
With these simple steps, you can create delightfully scrumptious gluten-free gingerbread squares, perfect for any occasion from Christmas dinner dessert to snack-time treats.
Substitutions and Variations
If you have dietary restrictions or simply want to switch things up, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to this gluten-free gingerbread recipe. Here are a few ideas:
– Flour: If you don’t have a gluten-free flour blend on hand, you can make your own by combining equal parts rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. You can also use oat flour instead of the gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that different flours may change the texture and flavor slightly.
– Sweetener: If you want to cut down on sugar or prefer a different sweetener, you can use coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of white sugar. Keep in mind that this may change the color and flavor slightly.
– Spices: If you want to experiment with different spice combinations, go for it! Cardamom, nutmeg, and allspice are all good options that complement gingerbread flavors.
– Eggs: For a vegan version of this recipe, substitute the egg with 1/4 cup applesauce or mashed banana. Keep in mind that this will change the texture slightly.
– Additions: Want to mix things up? Try adding some cranberries or chopped chocolate to the batter before baking. Or top the finished gingerbread squares with cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
No matter what substitutions or variations you try, don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. With its warm spices and chewy texture, these gingerbread squares are sure to be a hit no matter how you prepare them.
Serving and Pairing
Now for the fun part – serving and pairing our delicious gingerbread squares! These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for any occasion. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them:
– Serve them warm out of the oven with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
– Make your breakfast extra special by toasting a square and spreading some almond butter on top.
– Got a holiday party coming up? Cut your squares into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with some fresh berries for an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
– Feeling creative? Try using your gingerbread squares as a base for an ice cream sundae, or turn them into gingerbread trifle by layering cubes of the cake with whipped cream, vanilla pudding, and berries.
The flavor of gingerbread pairs particularly well with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, as well as sweet-tart flavors like cranberry and orange. Try pairing your squares with a hot cup of tea or spiced cider for the ultimate cozy treat.
Whether you’re serving these for breakfast or dessert, one thing’s for sure – they won’t last long!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As a busy nutritionist and food blogger, I understand that time is often of the essence, especially when it comes to preparing healthy and delicious meals. Fortunately, this gluten-free gingerbread recipe can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.
Make-Ahead:
If you’re planning on making this recipe for an event or party, you can easily make it ahead of time. Simply bake the gingerbread squares as directed, let them cool completely, and then store in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. These bars will keep well for up to 5 days at room temperature.
Storing:
To keep your gingerbread squares fresh for longer, consider storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or put them in an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to a week in the refrigerator, or up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating:
There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm gingerbread filling your home on a cold winter day. To reheat your stored gingerbread squares, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or heat them up in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or an easy dessert option that can be made ahead of time, these gluten-free gingerbread squares are the perfect solution. So go ahead and indulge without feeling guilty – these bars are packed with healthy ingredients that won’t leave you feeling bloated or weighed down!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to gluten-free baking, the key is having the right balance of ingredients and being mindful of the way you mix them. Here, I’ve compiled a list of tips for making perfect gingerbread squares that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and delicious.
1. Use the right flour blend
To achieve the perfect texture and crumb, it’s crucial to use a flour blend designed specifically for use in gluten-free baking. You can either find pre-made blends at your local health food store or make your own by combining different flours such as oat flour, almond flour, and coconut flour.
2. Pay attention to the measurements
With gluten-free baking, measuring ingredients precisely is even more important than usual. Invest in some good measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the exact amounts each time.
3. Combine dry ingredients first
Before adding wet ingredients to your mix, always make sure you whisk together all of the dry ingredients first. This will help distribute them evenly throughout the mix.
4. Don’t overmix
Once you’ve added in your wet ingredients, only mix until everything is just combined. Overmixing can cause your gingerbread squares to turn out tough.
5. Let dough rest
It’s important to leave your gingerbread dough to rest for at least 30 minutes after combining all of the ingredients before pressing it into the pan. This helps produce a better texture and allows for more even cooking.
6. Use parchment paper
Line your baking pan with parchment paper so you can lift out the gingerbread squares with ease and prevent sticking.
7. Avoid over-baking
Pay close attention while these bars are in the oven; every oven is different so keep an eye on them while they bake. Over-baking might result in cracked or dried out bars.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly baked gluten-free gingerbread squares every time!
FAQ
As a nutritionist and food blogger, I know that many people have questions when it comes to creating healthy, organic, gluten-free, and dairy-free recipes. I’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about this Gluten-Free Gingerbread Squares recipe that I hope will help you achieve perfect results every time you make it. So, let’s dive in and get some answers!
Does gingerbread contain gluten?
If you have a sensitivity to gluten, it’s best to avoid indulging in gingerbread houses that are made with wheat flour, which is a common ingredient in their construction.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this gluten-free gingerbread squares recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious way to satisfy their sweet tooth. It’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that will nourish your body without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or an impressive dessert to share at your next gathering, these gingerbread squares will not disappoint.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s adaptable to different dietary needs, making it the perfect dessert for anyone with gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan requirements. Plus, the substitutions and variations section provides endless opportunities to customize the recipe to your liking and experiment with different flavors and textures.
Lastly, I encourage you to share this recipe with your friends and family who may also be on the lookout for healthier ways to indulge in their favorite treats. Together, let’s pave the way towards a world where we can enjoy delicious food without compromising our health.
Gingerbread Squares (Gluten Free) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup corn oil
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup sour milk
- 2/3 cup molasses
- 1 cup gluten-free flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 dash ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 cup powdered milk
Instructions
- Combine DRY ingredients with the WET ones. Whisk until moist and no large lumps are visible.
- Options: Chopped candied ginger (about 1/4 c.).
- White raisins soaked in rum (about 1/2 c.)
- Plain yogurt or sour cream can substitute for sour milk.
- If using candied ginger and raisins, stir into batter now.
- Pour into prepared square pan (grease & flour it).
- Bake in pre-heated 350deg. oven for about 45 minute.
- * Check at 30 minute interval.
- Cool in pan on wire rack; can be served warm, cold. doesn't matter!
- Enjoy!