Gingerbread (vegan)

Vegan Gingerbread: A Delightful Treat Full of Flavor and Tradition

Gingerbread is a dessert that reminds us of holidays, traditions, and moments spent with loved ones. This vegan gingerbread recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for enjoying at any time of the year. Whether you prepare it as a gift or savor it with a cup of fragrant tea, gingerbread will always bring a smile to your face.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 20 cookies

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 100 g honey (melted)
- 200 g margarine
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon grated orange peel
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sugar (for dusting)
- Decorative candies (optional)

Preparing the gingerbread:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients and placing them on your work surface. It is important to have everything at hand to avoid wasting time. If you wish, you can use flower honey or acacia honey, each bringing a slightly different taste.

2. Melting the margarine: In a suitable pot, add the margarine, sugar, and honey. Place the pot over low heat and stir constantly until the margarine is completely melted and the sugar has dissolved. It is essential not to bring the mixture to a boil, but to keep it at a low temperature to preserve the flavors.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour. Make a small well in the center of the flour and add the baking soda dissolved in a little lemon juice or vinegar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and orange peel. These ingredients will give the gingerbread a unique flavor.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the margarine mixture has cooled slightly, gradually pour it over the ingredients in the flour bowl. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until you obtain a dough with the consistency of soft playdough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

5. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for about 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten in the flour to relax, making it easier to roll out the dough.

6. Preheating the oven: In the meantime, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. It is important that the temperature is correct to achieve fluffy and delicious cookies.

7. Shaping the cookies: Once the dough has cooled, use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm. Use cookie cutters to cut out the cookies. You can choose classic shapes or be creative and use themed shapes, depending on the season or occasion.

8. Baking: Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to avoid sticking during baking. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until they become golden and slightly firm to the touch.

9. Cooling and decorating: After removing the tray from the oven, let the cookies cool on a rack. Once they are completely cooled, you can dust them with sugar or decorate them with candies to give them a festive look.

10. Serving: Serve the vegan gingerbread alongside a cup of hot tea or fragrant coffee. It is also perfect for gifting, beautifully packaged in boxes or cellophane.

Practical tips:

- For a more intense flavor: You can also add other spices such as ginger or nutmeg. These will bring an exotic note to your gingerbread.
- Storing the cookies: If you want to keep the gingerbread fresh for a longer time, store it in an airtight container. You can also add a slice of apple to the container to maintain moisture.
- Variations: You can experiment with additions such as ground nuts, raisins, or finely chopped dark chocolate. These will add a unique texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Vegan gingerbread is a healthier choice compared to other desserts, as it contains no dairy and is naturally sweetened with honey. Whole wheat flour can be used instead of white flour to add extra fiber and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use honey of another variety? Yes, you can experiment with different types of honey, each having a specific taste.
- What can I use instead of margarine? You can use coconut oil or vegan butter, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the gingerbread fluffier? Make sure the dough is not too dry; add a little plant-based milk if necessary.

In conclusion, vegan gingerbread is a versatile and flavorful dessert, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. With each bite, it will take you back in time, reminding you of the traditions and joys of childhood. So, share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the magic of cooking together! Enjoy your meal!