Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 2 chai tea bags
Special equipment needed:
- 9x9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the molasses and eggs until well combined.
5. In a saucepan, bring the hot water to a boil and steep the chai tea bags for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
6. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the chai tea, and mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the gingerbread comes out clean.
8. Let the gingerbread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes 9 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 296
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 275mg
Sugar: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Coconut sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of molasses.
Variations:
- Add chopped crystallized ginger to the batter for extra ginger flavor.
- Top the gingerbread with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to ensure a tender gingerbread.
- Steep the chai tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes to extract the maximum flavor.
- Let the gingerbread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Storage instructions:
Store the gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Warm the gingerbread in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the gingerbread on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Garnishes:
Top the gingerbread with whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Pairings:
Serve the gingerbread with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the gingerbread with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the gingerbread is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of milk to the batter.
- If the gingerbread is too moist, try baking it for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the gingerbread.
Food history:
Gingerbread has been enjoyed for centuries and is believed to have originated in ancient Greece and Rome. Chai tea, on the other hand, is a traditional Indian beverage made with black tea, spices, and milk.
Flavor profiles:
Chai-Spiced Gingerbread is a warm and comforting dessert that combines the spicy flavors of ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg with the rich and earthy taste of molasses.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the gingerbread warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious and satisfying dessert.
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Taste: Spicy, Ginger, Sweet, Chai, Aromatic, Ginger-Y, Chai-Flavored