Sticky Fingers Gingerbread

Step 1: Preheat oven to 300F. Line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment, allowing overhang on two opposite sides. Butter the pan and parchment well. Place the baking soda in a small prep bowl and add a very SMALL amount of hot water. Stir until dissolved and set aside.

Step 2: Place butter, sugar, syrup, molasses, and spices in a heavy saucepan and melt over low heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add the milk and stir.

Step 3: Pour the mixture into a large bowl. Add the beaten eggs and baking soda. Mix well. Sift in the flour and beat hard for about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then REDUCE TEMP to 275F. Continue baking about 50 minutes our until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Step 5: Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes, then loosen sides and remove from pan. Cut into serving pieces. It is best while hot, with freshly whipped cream.