Gingerbread — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Fresh gingerbread should be moist and firm, with a deep, spicy aroma that indicates a generous use of ginger and other spices. Touch the surface; it should be slightly sticky but not wet.

Pass up gingerbread that is dry or crumbly, which suggests it is stale. Well-made gingerbread should be dense and chewy, with a rich molasses and spice flavor that lingers after each bite.

Gingerbread should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its softness and flavor. Properly stored, gingerbread can last up to a week.

Exposure to air can make gingerbread dry and hard. Avoid refrigerating it, as this can alter its texture. Sealing the container tightly helps preserve its moisture and taste, ensuring it remains delicious.

Gingerbread can last for 1-2 weeks at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, gingerbread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Leftover gingerbread can be transformed into a variety of sweet treats. Crumble it and use as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal, or mix it into a milkshake for a festive flavor. Gingerbread pieces can also be layered with whipped cream and fruit to create a delicious trifle.

Use crumbled gingerbread as a crust for cheesecakes or pies, where it adds a spicy, sweet flavor, or mix it into cookie dough or cake batter for extra warmth and richness. If you have a lot of gingerbread, consider making a batch of gingerbread cake pops by mixing crumbled cake with frosting, then rolling into balls and dipping in chocolate. Gingerbread can also be used as a base for a bread pudding, or simply enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. For a quick snack, try topping gingerbread slices with cream cheese or nut butter, or use them to make gingerbread sandwiches with a sweet filling.