Holiday Recipe: Gingerbread Loaf with Vanilla Glaze

If you're searching for an easy, festive bake that makes your whole home smell like the holidays, this Gingerbread Loaf is exactly the recipe you need. Warm spices, rich molasses, and a soft, tender crumb come together for a cozy treat you can make with simple pantry staples — all available right here at Hershey Fresh Market.

Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze that drips beautifully down the sides, this loaf is perfect for gifting, holiday brunches, or enjoying with a hot cup of coffee on a winter morning.

RECIPE

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 10–12 slices

Ingredients

For the Loaf

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 3/4 cup molasses

• 1/2 cup hot water

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking soda.

3. Cream butter & sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the egg and mix again until smooth.

4. Add molasses: Stir in the molasses until fully incorporated.

5. Combine wet & dry: Add the dry ingredients in two additions, alternating with the hot water. Mix until the batter is smooth.

6. Bake: Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Glaze: Once the loaf has cooled completely, whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the top.

Ingredient Notes

• Molasses: Provides the deep color, moisture, and signature holiday flavor.

• Warm spices: Ginger and cinnamon carry most of the aroma — fresh spices make a noticeable difference.

• Softened butter: Helps create a tender, moist crumb that holds up beautifully under the glaze.

Serving Ideas

• Slice and serve warm with extra glaze or a pat of butter.

• Pair with hot coffee, mulled cider, or a festive spiced tea.

• Wrap in parchment and twine for a thoughtful, homemade gift.

• Add to a holiday brunch spread alongside fruit, pastries, and other seasonal favorites.

Storage Tips

• Keeps for 3 days at room temperature when wrapped tightly.

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

• If freezing, add the glaze just before serving for the best texture.