If you make a lot of gingerbread recipes during the holiday season, then you’ll find it useful to have your own gingerbread spice mix ready to go in your spice cabinet! Here’s a simple spice mixture that I like to add to baked goods and all things gingerbread. Please let me know in the comments below how you use it this Christmas season!
A small jar with an airtight lid - Or a clean, dry mason jar if making a large batch.
Ingredients
1TablespoonGround cinnamon
1TablespoonGround ginger
1teaspoonGround cloves
¼teaspoonNutmeg
Optional:
1/2-1teaspoonGround cardamom .– Cardamom is really popular in the Nordic countries and adds a citrusy and herbal note. Start with adding 1/2 to 1 teaspoon
Instructions
In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the spices and mix well.
Transfer to small jars or an air-tight container.
Small jar of gingerbread spices layered
Notes
Big batch ingredients 1/2 cup ground cinnamon 1/2 cup ground ginger 2 tablespoons ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg Optional: 2 1/2 tablespoons ground cardamom Storage Store the gingerbread spice mix in an airtight container or empty spice jars, in a dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve its freshness. How to use gingerbread spice mixUse this spice blend to add gingerbread flavor to quick breads, waffles, pancakes, mug cakes, cookies, and many more of your favorite recipes! Give the jar a good shake before using it in case the spices have settled. For Gingerbread cookies – Start with 1.5 tablespoons of spice mix for an average cookie dough recipe. Taste a little pinch of the dough to see if it has enough flavor; otherwise, you can add more. For hot chocolate – For hot chocolate with a unique flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of this mixture. Add a star anise to the pot as you warm your milk for extra flavor. For cakes – Use about 2-3 tablespoons of gingerbread spice mix for a standard-sized cake. Again, adjust to taste. For pancakes pancakes or waffles – Start with 1 to 2 teaspoons of the spice mix per batch of batter. VariationsThe great thing about making your own spice mix instead of buying it at the store is that you can add more or less of the various spices, or test some of the flavors below. Our personal favorite is vanilla. Vanilla powder can add a sweet and aromatic flavor and produces a blend similar to a German gingerbread spice blend. Use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon.Allspice has a flavor like a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon to start. Ground anise adds a licorice-like flavor to your mix. Start with 1/4 teaspoon. A pinch of black pepper can add a bit of warmth. Try a small amount to start, about 1/4 teaspoon. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper. Be cautious and start with a very small amount.