Pain d'Epices (French Gingerbread) with Chocolate and Orange

honey

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: corn syrup

Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness with less processing.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar provides a lower glycemic index.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds a subtle flavor.

almonds

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts provide healthy fats and are often less expensive.

Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).

Grease a loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix honey and brown sugar until well combined.

Add eggs and milk to the mixture, whisking until smooth.

In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Fold in the orange zest and melted butter.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Sprinkle almonds on top, if using.

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens