Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread is the perfect treat for cozy nights or festive gatherings. This flavorful dessert is packed with warm spices and the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
It’s easy to prepare and a great way to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Whether you’re enjoying it during the holidays or on a chilly afternoon, this gingerbread will warm your heart and fill your home with delicious aromas.
why make this recipe
This Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread is a must-try because it’s delightfully simple and bursting with flavor. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cranberries creates a cheerful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s not only mouthwatering but also makes for wonderful leftovers-if it lasts that long! 🍂💖
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
how to make Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Whipped cream or crème fraîche for serving
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
« This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free. »
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (9×9 inch / 23×23 cm)
(An 8×8 inch dish also works; baking time may be slightly longer.)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt. 🌾
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. 🍬
- Add the molasses and eggs, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries and nuts if using. 🍒
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. ⏳
- Allow to cool completely before wrapping and storing in the fridge.
- Serve at room temperature with whipped cream or crème fraîche. Enjoy! 🎉
how to serve Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread
Slice the gingerbread into individual pieces and top with whipped cream or crème fraîche. You can also sprinkle some extra cranberries on top for added festive flair.
how to store Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread
Store the gingerbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
💡 Pro Tips
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add orange zest for a citrusy twist! 🍊
- If you don’t have cranberries, try raisins or chopped apples instead.
- Serve it warm for a cozy treat, especially during the colder months!
variation
Consider adding a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweeter touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?
A: Yes! Raisins, chopped apples, or even cherries work well.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water for each egg).
Q: Is this gingerbread suitable for freezing?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Enjoy it later for a delicious treat!

Sticky Cranberry Gingerbread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm, spiced gingerbread filled with tart cranberries—simple to prepare, festive, and perfect for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
2 large eggs
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Whipped cream or creme fraiche for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Add the molasses and eggs, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in cranberries and nuts if using.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow to cool completely before wrapping and storing in the fridge.
10. Serve at room temperature with whipped cream or creme fraiche.
Notes
Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Raisins or chopped apples can replace cranberries.
Serve warm for an extra cozy treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: approx. 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cranberry gingerbread, holiday dessert, spiced cake








What size baking dish are you using?
Hi Tami!
Great question! I used a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish for this recipe.
If you only have an 8×8 inch dish, that works too – your gingerbread will just bake up a little thicker and extra cozy.
Let me know how it turns out for you!