Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread Recipe

Recipe for Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Introduction:

Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations in our family. This recipe originated in New Orleans and combines the rich flavors of molasses, brown sugar, and aromatic spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The addition of black walnuts adds a delightful crunch to the moist gingerbread. Whether baked as muffins or a loaf cake, this gingerbread is guaranteed to be a hit, reminiscent of the delectable treats found in an Atlantic City bake-shop.

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of New Orleans molasses
- 1 cup of light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of shortening (composed of butter, lard, and sweet drippings)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of cloves
- 2 teaspoons of baking soda (saleratus), sifted with 3-1/2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of boiling water
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup of coarsely chopped black walnut meats (or substitute with well-floured raisins)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan or prepare muffin pans by lining them with muffin cups.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and shortening together until creamy and well combined.

3. Add the molasses to the bowl and mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

4. Pour one cup of boiling water over the mixture and beat until smooth and well combined.

5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. This helps ensure even distribution of the spices and prevents any lumps in the batter.

6. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir well to combine, ensuring there are no dry spots left.

7. Beat the eggs into the batter, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

8. Fold in the chopped black walnut meats or well-floured raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

9. If baking in a loaf pan, pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. If using muffin pans, fill each cup about two-thirds full with batter.

10. Place the loaf pan or muffin pans into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the pan used.

11. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the gingerbread to cool in the pans for a few minutes. Then, transfer the loaf cake or muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. Once cooled, slice the loaf cake or serve the muffins as desired. Enjoy this delightful Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread with a cup of tea or coffee!

Fun Facts:
1. Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread recipe is said to have originated in New Orleans, known for its rich culinary heritage.
2. The combination of molasses, brown sugar, and spices gives this gingerbread a deep and complex flavor profile.
3. Black walnuts add a unique nuttiness and a distinct crunch to this gingerbread. However, you can substitute them with well-floured raisins if preferred.
4. This gingerbread is known to stay fresh for several days, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert or snack option.
5. The taste of Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread is similar to the renowned gingerbread sold in an Atlantic City bake-shop, making it a hit with gingerbread enthusiasts.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Traditional Gingerbread Cake: This classic dessert features the same rich flavors of molasses, spices, and brown sugar. It is often served as a cake, with or without icing, and pairs well with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
2. Spiced Pumpkin Bread: If you enjoy the warm spices in Aunt Sarah's Walnut Gingerbread, you'll love this pumpkin bread. It combines the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the natural sweetness of pumpkin puree for a delightful autumn treat.
3. Zucchini Bread: For a more unique twist on traditional gingerbread, try making zucchini bread. It incorporates grated zucchini, which adds moistness to the bread while keeping it light and fluffy. The warm spices complement the mild flavor of the zucchini perfectly.