Description
This Clove-Spiced Molasses Loaf is a cozy, fragrant bread perfect for chilly days. Infused with warm spices like cloves, cinnamon, and ginger, and sweetened with rich molasses and brown sugar, this loaf offers a moist, tender crumb with a touch of sweetness and spice. Ideal for breakfast, tea time, or a comforting snack, it’s baked to golden perfection and topped with optional granulated sugar for a delightful crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
Optional Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Molasses and Eggs: Mix the molasses into the butter-sugar mixture until fully incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined to avoid overmixing.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly on top for a sweet, crunchy crust.
- Bake the Loaf: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool the Loaf: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
- Serve: Slice the loaf and enjoy it plain or spread with butter for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender and moist.
- Using parchment paper can make removing the loaf easier and help avoid sticking.
- Molasses adds a deep, rich flavor unique to this recipe—do not substitute with other sweeteners.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.
- Optional granulated sugar topping creates a pleasant texture contrast and a subtle sweetness.
