Looking for a healthier twist on a classic holiday treat? Here's a recipe for a healthier version of a gingerbread loaf that still has all the rich, spicy flavor of traditional gingerbread but with some lighter ingredients. Whether you're baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, this healthier gingerbread will fill your kitchen with festive cheer!

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or spelt flour for a lighter texture)
• 1/2 cup almond flour (for added moisture and richness)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or use maple syrup for a different flavor)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (to replace some of the fat and add moisture)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for added protein and moisture)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/4 cup molasses (for classic gingerbread flavor)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger (optional, but adds a fresh kick)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

3. Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut sugar, applesauce, Greek yogurt, almond milk, molasses, vanilla extract, and freshly grated ginger (if using). Make sure the wet ingredients are well combined.

4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help keep the loaf tender.

5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and place the pan in the oven.

6. Bake for 50-60 minutes: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 50-minute mark.

7. Cool: Once done, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Slice and enjoy: Slice the gingerbread loaf once it's cooled. You can serve it plain or top it with a little whipped coconut cream or a dusting of powdered coconut sugar for extra sweetness.

Tips:

• Storage: The loaf can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, or you can wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

• Optional add-ins: Add a handful of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries) for extra texture.

This healthier gingerbread loaf gives you that cozy, spicy flavor while cutting down on sugar and unhealthy fats. Enjoy!