As the chill of winter settles in, the aroma of gingerbread fills the air, reminding me of cozy family gatherings around the fireplace. My grandmother’s gingerbread was a staple during the holidays, each slice steeped in warmth and love. This modern take on the classic gingerbread incorporates spiced pears, adding a fresh and fruity twist that elevates the traditional flavors. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a quiet evening with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh pears, peeled and diced (preferably Bosc or Anjou)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside, allowing the spices to blend and breathe.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it creates a lovely texture in the final loaf. Add the molasses and mix well until fully incorporated. One by one, add the eggs, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Fold in the diced pears and chopped walnuts if you are using them, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will soon be filled with the most delightful aroma!
Once baked, remove the gingerbread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
This Spiced Pear Gingerbread Delight is a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing stories and laughter with family. Each slice carries a hint of nostalgia while embracing the new flavors that make it uniquely yours. Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat!