Soft Gingerbread. Mrs. M. Vose. Recipe

Soft Gingerbread Recipe
Mrs. M. Vose

**History of the Recipe:**
Gingerbread has a rich history dating back centuries, and it has become a beloved treat in many cultures around the world. The soft gingerbread recipe by Mrs. M. Vose is a timeless classic that has been passed down for generations. With its delightful aroma and moist texture, this gingerbread recipe is perfect for any occasion.

**Fun Facts about Gingerbread:**
- Gingerbread has been enjoyed since ancient times and was traditionally made with breadcrumbs, ginger, and honey.
- The earliest documented gingerbread recipe dates back to Ancient Greece in the 1st century AD.
- Gingerbread houses became popular during the 16th century in Germany, inspired by the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel.
- Gingerbread was often shaped into human and animal figures, which were decorated with icing and candies as ornaments.
- In England, gingerbread was traditionally associated with holidays and festive occasions, often shaped like kings, queens, and knights.

**Soft Gingerbread Recipe:**

Ingredients:
- 1 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup sour milk
- 1 teaspoon soda
- Pinch of ginger
- Flour to make as stiff as sponge cake

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the molasses and shortening.
3. Mix well until the molasses and shortening are thoroughly blended.
4. In a small bowl, dissolve the soda in the sour milk.
5. Add the sour milk mixture to the molasses and shortening mixture.
6. Mix well until everything is combined.
7. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly until the batter reaches a stiff consistency, similar to that of a sponge cake.
8. Add a pinch of ginger and mix it into the batter.
9. Pour the batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
10. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the gingerbread to cool before serving.

**Serve and Enjoy:**
Once the soft gingerbread has cooled, you can slice it into squares or any desired shape. Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. The rich flavors of molasses and ginger combined with the moist texture will surely delight your taste buds.

**Similar Recipe Dishes:**
- Gingerbread Cookies: Transform the same gingerbread batter into cookies by rolling it out, cutting it into festive shapes, and baking them until golden brown.
- Gingerbread Loaf: Adjust the recipe by pouring the batter into a loaf pan and baking it for a longer duration. This will give you a soft, moist gingerbread loaf.
- Gingerbread Cupcakes: Fill cupcake liners with the gingerbread batter and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Top them with cream cheese frosting for an irresistible treat.
- Gingerbread Pancakes: Add the warm flavors of gingerbread to your breakfast routine by incorporating the spices and aroma into pancake batter. Serve with maple syrup or whipped cream.
- Gingerbread Trifle: Use the soft gingerbread as a base layer in a trifle dish. Layer it with whipped cream, gingerbread crumbles, and any fruit of your choice to create a delightful dessert.

Enjoy experimenting with this versatile gingerbread recipe and creating new culinary delights with its warm, spiced flavors.