Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting treat, look no further than this delightful recipe that combines warm spices and rich flavors. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these baked squares are simple to make and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Featuring the richness of molasses and the tanginess of buttermilk, these treats are an ideal way to embrace the cozy season.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup light brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups buttermilk, at room temperature
1/4 cup unsulphured molasses
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 16 squares
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line an 18×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the buttermilk, molasses, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent the melted butter from clumping.
4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter may have some lumps.
5. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly to the edges.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line an 18×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the buttermilk, molasses, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to prevent the melted butter from clumping.
Combine Ingredients
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter may have some lumps.
Prepare Batter on Baking Sheet
Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly to the edges.
Bake the Mixture
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients
Make sure all liquid ingredients (buttermilk, eggs, melted butter) are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and prevent clumping.
Baking Sheet Preparation
Using parchment paper not only helps prevent sticking but also makes for easier cleanup after baking.
Don’t Overmix
Gently combining the ingredients helps maintain the tenderness of the baked good. A few lumps are fine.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving warm with butter, syrup, whipped cream, or sliced fruit for added flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is used to combine dry ingredients and to blend wet ingredients until smooth. This technique incorporates air into the mixture, helping to create a light and fluffy texture in the final product.
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven ensures that your baked goods cook evenly and rise properly. An oven that is at the right temperature will help set the structure of the batter quickly, leading to a better texture.
Pouring and Spreading
Pouring the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spreading it evenly helps ensure that the bread or cake bakes uniformly. This technique allows for even heat distribution during baking.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food using dry heat in an oven. The temperatures used can alter the chemical reactions in the ingredients, leading to the desired texture and flavor in baked goods.
Cooling
After removing the baked good from the oven, allowing it to cool for a few minutes before slicing helps to set its structure. This technique is important to prevent the dish from falling apart when cut.
FAQ
Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but it’s best to add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to each cup of milk to replicate buttermilk’s acidity.
What if I don’t have unsulfured molasses?
You can substitute unsulfured molasses with honey or maple syrup, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the batter?
It’s not recommended to freeze the batter. However, you can freeze baked squares for up to 3 months.
What toppings can I use for serving?
You can serve the squares warm with toppings such as butter, cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, fruit preserves, or syrup.
Conclusion
This delightful recipe showcases the perfect combination of spices and sweet ingredients, resulting in a warm, comforting treat that’s ideal for any occasion. The blend of molasses and buttermilk gives these baked goods a rich flavor and moist texture, making them a joy to serve fresh out of the oven. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Pumpkin Bars
Incorporate pureed pumpkin into the batter for a seasonal twist. Adjust the spices to enhance the pumpkin flavor, adding more cinnamon and nutmeg.
Chocolate Chip Molasses Cookies
Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for a delectable chocolatey addition that balances the spices beautifully.
Apple Cinnamon Sheet Cake
Fold in diced apples along with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon for a fruity and spiced dessert option that’s perfect for fall.
Nuts and Raisins Variation
Add chopped walnuts or pecans, along with raisins or cranberries for added texture and a burst of sweetness.
Maple Icing Drizzle
Top the squares with a simple maple icing made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness.
Gingerbread Pancakes
Transform the batter into fluffy pancakes, perfect for breakfast. Serve with maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful start to your day.
