Christmas in the United Kingdom is full of festive flavors and hearty treats that warm up the cold winter days. One delightful recipe that embodies the holiday spirit is the classic Gingerbread and Toffee Squares. These aromatic squares are a perfect blend of rich gingerbread and sweet toffee, creating a comforting and indulgent dessert for your holiday gatherings. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these treats are sure to become a new favorite in your Christmas baking repertoire.
**Gingerbread And Toffee Squares**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup toffee bits
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. **Prepare the dry ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream the butter and sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add the molasses and egg**: Beat in the molasses until well combined, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. **Incorporate the dry ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. **Fold in the toffee bits**: Gently fold in the toffee bits until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Spread the dough in the pan**: Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and press it evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.
8. **Bake the squares**: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **Cool and slice**: Allow the gingerbread and toffee squares to cool in the pan for a few minutes before using the parchment paper overhang to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars.
10. **Serve and enjoy**: These Gingerbread and Toffee Squares are best enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a mug of spiced tea. Perfect for a cozy evening by the fireplace or as a sweet treat during your holiday gatherings, these squares are sure to bring warmth and joy to your Christmas celebrations.
With their rich gingerbread flavor and pockets of sweet toffee, these squares are a delightful addition to any festive dessert spread. Make a batch to share with friends and family, or simply enjoy them as a cozy treat for yourself. Embrace the holiday season with the comforting taste of these Gingerbread and Toffee Squares, and let the aroma of spices fill your home with Christmas cheer.
