Gingerbread Squares
Gingerbread and Christmas have a long-standing, almost magical connection that dates back centuries. This spiced and fragrant treat has become synonymous with the holiday season, evoking warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
The origins of gingerbread can be traced back to ancient Greece and Egypt, where it was used for ceremonial purposes. However, it was in Medieval Europe where gingerbread took on its festive identity. During the 11th century, returning Crusaders brought ginger and spices back from the Middle East, and these exotic ingredients were quickly incorporated into European baking. By the 16th century, gingerbread had become a popular treat at fairs and festivals, often shaped into decorative forms like animals and flowers.
The association with Christmas likely began in Germany, where the tradition of baking gingerbread houses emerged. These edible structures, decorated with icing and candies, were inspired by the story of Hansel and Gretel, and they became a beloved holiday craft. The warmth of gingerbread, combined with its festive decorations, made it a perfect treat for the cold winter months.
Gingerbread’s connection to Christmas was further cemented by the Victorians. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert popularized many Christmas traditions, including the Christmas tree and festive feasts. Gingerbread, with its rich flavor and intricate designs, became a staple of Victorian Christmas celebrations. The tradition of baking gingerbread cookies in festive shapes like stars, bells, and gingerbread men also became widespread during this time.
Today, gingerbread continues to be a holiday favorite around the world. Whether it's the construction of elaborate gingerbread houses, the baking of cookies in festive shapes, or the creation of gingerbread-flavored cakes, this spiced delicacy remains a symbol of Christmas cheer and creativity.
In essence, gingerbread embodies the spirit of Christmas: warmth, tradition, and a touch of magic. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, whether through shared baking activities, festive decorations, or simply enjoying a delicious treat with loved ones. The connection between gingerbread and Christmas is a testament to the power of food to evoke memories and create lasting traditions.
Melt together butter, honey and sugar, then add the eggs and milk, and stir until combined.
Whisk the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg and a pinch of salt, then combine it with the wet mix.
Spread the batter over a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C/356°F for 20 minutes. Let it cool down, then cut vertically into two parts.
With a mixer mix the whipping cream with whipping cream stabiliser until soft peaks, then add mascarpone cheese and continue mixing until stiff peaks.
Spread the jam over the first sponge cake, then top with the cream. Place the other sponge cake over the cream and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Melt together dark chocolate and heavy cream, then pour over the cake and refrigerate for 2 hours. Once set, cut into squares.
Gingerbread Squares
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt together butter, honey and sugar, then add the eggs and milk, and stir until combined.
- Whisk the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg and a pinch of salt, then combine it with the wet mix.
- Spread the batter over a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes. Let it cool down, then cut vertically into two parts.
- With a mixer mix the whipping cream with whipping cream stabiliser until soft peaks, then add mascarpone cheese and continue mixing until stiff peaks.
- Spread the jam over the first sponge cake, then top with the cream. Place the other sponge cake over the cream and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Melt together dark chocolate and heavy cream, then pour over the cake and refrigerate for 2 hours. Once set, cut into squares.
