Top 10 gingerbread recipes

With Thanksgiving over, new flavors are replacing the popular fall flavors of pumpkin and cranberry. One of these is gingerbread, which is among the most popular smells and tastes during the holiday season. Spiced but sweet, this flavor can be found in cookies shaped like men, drinks at coffee shops or even shower gel.

According to PBS, gingerbread has a long history, which started with the ancient Chinese harvesting ginger. Although many connect this food with Germany, the oldest recipe came from Greece in 2400 BC. Not until the Middle Ages did the rest of Europe begin to incorporate this spice.

Now many cultures enjoy the ginger spice especially in connection with the Christmas season. Not only is it delicious, there are also many health benefits. Health Diaries lists that ginger’s benefits include helping treat ovarian cancer, reducing morning sickness and providing relief for migraines.

Gingerbread cookies, candles and drinks are a major part of December. Right in time for Christmas, here are some delicious recipes for interesting and tasty ways to use gingerbread.

image of Adrienne Bailon courtesy of Sara Jaye Weiss/INFGoff.com

[ new page = Gingerbread Smoothie ]
10. Gingerbread Smoothie from Peanut Butter and Peppers

There is no need to go to a coffee shop when the craving for a gingerbread drink hits. With this recipe, people can easily make a drink with this spice in their own kitchen. Vegan and gluten-free, the gingerbread smoothie can be enjoyed by nearly anyone.

[ new page = Gingerbread Dip ]
9. Gingerbread Dip from Shugary Sweets

Want a gingerbread-flavored snack? This recipe would be great with graham crackers, apples, or cookies. Plus, the Greek yogurt base makes this a bit healthier than the average dip.

[ new page = Gingerbread Cookie Dough Fudge ]
8. Gingerbread Cookie Dough Fudge from Lauren’s Latest

Cookies are traditional part of Christmas. However, that does not mean that other desserts should be forgotten. This fudge might take some time to make, but it will taste delicious as well as bring something unique to the treat table.

[ new page = Gingerbread Cheesecake ]
7. Gingerbread Cheesecake at Tastes of Lizzy T’s

One does not usually think of cheesecake and gingerbread together. However, this recipe for a rich, scrumptious cake is sure to be a hit. A crust of gingersnaps is topped with cheesecake that is layered with gingerbread. Whipped cream with a hint of nutmeg and ginger is spread over the top, and finally crushed gingersnaps are sprinkled on top.

Perhaps cheesecake and gingerbread should go together more often.

[ new page = Gingerbread Loaf ]
6. Gingerbread Loaf from Tastes of Lizzy T’s

Want breakfast to feel festive? Gingerbread can taste wonderful as toast with butter, cream cheese or cinnamon butter. Plus, this recipe does not need time to rise which makes it simpler and quicker than other homemade breads.

[ new page = Gingerbread Poke Cake ]
5. Gingerbread Poke Cake from Crazy for Crust

Sometimes, one needs a dessert but only wants to use a few ingredients. This poke cake only needs gingerbread cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, butterscotch topping, whipped cream and toffee bits. The result is a wonderfully moist cake with gooey butterscotch inside and crunchy toffee on top.

[ new page = Gingerbread Blondies with Molasses Buttercream Frosting ]
4. Gingerbread Blondies with Molasses Buttercream Frosting from Rock Recipes

Want to make a quick but scrumptious dessert? Chewy blondies are topped with a creamy molasses frosting. They only take an hour to make but will probably be eaten in even less than that amount of time.

[ new page = Gingerbread Spice Cinnamon Rolls ]
3. Gingerbread Spice Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Frosting by Crazy for Crust

Here is another wonderful breakfast recipe. Although these cinnamon rolls take time to create, the result is wonderful with hints of cinnamon, molasses, ginger and more spices. A maple syrup frosting finishes the masterpiece. Each gooey bite will make it worth the effort.

[ new page = Nutella Stuffed Gingerbread Cookies ]
2. Nutella Stuffed Gingerbread Cookies from The Food Charlatan

Perhaps the only thing better than a chocolate cookie is chocolate hidden in the center of it. Normal gingerbread cookies are made more exciting by the surprise Nutella center. Watch the shocked and elated faces of people as they bite into this treat.

[ new page = Gingerbread Kettle Corn ]
1. Gingerbread Kettle Corn from Wine and Glue

Desserts do not need to be the only way that gingerbread can be enjoyed. This popcorn with gingerbread flavoring can be a great seasonal snack. Popped popcorn is sprinkled with a spice mixture and then drizzled with melted white chocolate. Munch on this treat between holiday meals.