By Melinda Assaf, Kardish Owner

As we welcome the festive season here in Canada, our homes fill with the delightful aromas and flavours that define this time of year. I'm excited to share with you a healthier take on a holiday classic that's close to my heart – the Gingerbread Loaf. This recipe is a testament to how we can indulge in our favourite seasonal desserts without straying from a healthier path.

What makes this gingerbread loaf recipe healthier?

Whole Wheat Goodness: Using whole wheat flour not only retains the classic taste but adds fiber and essential nutrients.

Natural Sweeteners: Opting for honey or maple syrup provides a natural sweetness, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars.

Nutrient-Rich Spices: Ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are not just flavour enhancers; they offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Gingerbread Loaf Recipe with a Healthy Twist 

Ingredients:
-2 cups whole wheat flour
-1 teaspoon baking soda
-1/2 teaspoon baking powder
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-2 teaspoons ground ginger
-1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
-1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
-1/2 cup Kardish Coconut Oil, melted
-1/2 cup molasses
-1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
-2 large eggs
-1 cup unsweetened applesauce
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1/2 cup hot water

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
3. In another bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, molasses, honey or maple syrup, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
7. Allow the gingerbread loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This holiday season, try this delicious gingerbread loaf recipe! It's a wonderful way to enjoy the festive flavours we all love while maintaining our commitment to a healthy lifestyle.