Gingerbread

2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 cup molasses
3/4 cup hot water
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preparation:
-Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan or spray with a baking spray with -flour. Heat oven to 325°.
-Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl;
-beat on low speed of electric mixer until ingredients are combined.
-Scrape the sides of the bowl and increase mixer speed to medium and beat for about 3 minutes longer.
-Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.


This gingerbread freezes well: cut into squares and wrap individually. Thaw and warm in the microwave just before serving.