Gingerbread

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter a 13-by-19-inch baking pan.

2. Step 2.

   In a small bowl, stir together 2 teaspoons baking soda and 1 cup sour milk or buttermilk. The mixture will fizz; set it aside.

3. Step 3.

   In a large bowl, cream ½ cup butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 egg until well combined.

4. Step 4.

   Stir the baking soda-milk mixture into 1 cup molasses, then add this to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, mixing until smooth.

5. Step 5.

   In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups flour, 2 teaspoons ginger, and 1 teaspoon spices (such as cinnamon and clove). If using 1 quart blueberries, toss them in a little extra flour to coat.

6. Step 6.

   Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. If using, fold in the floured blueberries gently.

7. Step 7.

   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the gingerbread cool in the pan on a wire rack.

8. Step 8.

   Once cooled, cover with whipped cream or frosting. Serve warm or at room temperature.