Name: Gingerbread Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup Unsalted Butter; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; ¼ cup Molasses; 1 large Egg; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; ¾ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; ½ teaspoon Ground Cloves; ⅛ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; ½ teaspoon Ground Ginger; ½ teaspoon Salt; 6 tablespoons Cream Cheese; 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked Gingerbread Bars wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to cozy family gatherings where laughter fills the air and the warmth of the oven contrasts the crispness outside. As the holiday season approaches, these bars bring back memories of decorating gingerbread houses with my kids, who would sneak bites of the dough when they thought no one was watching. When I first decided to bake Gingerbread Bars, I was looking for a recipe that embraced the rich flavors of the season and evoked that very nostalgia. With a bit of spice and everything nice, this dessert is not only easy to make but also a festive treat that everyone loves.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
28 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This Gingerbread Bars

Perfectly Festive

What I love most about these Gingerbread Bars is how perfectly they embody the spirit of the holidays. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves creates an inviting aroma that makes your home feel like a winter wonderland. They’re just the right amount of sweet, making them a great treat for any occasion.

Easy to Make

You don’t have to be a baking expert to whip up these delightful bars. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward process means anyone can make them. I remember the first time I baked these—I was surprised by how quickly they came together, and the satisfaction of pulling that golden-brown pan from the oven was unforgettable.

Versatile Treat

These bars are so versatile! You can dress them up with a luscious cream cheese frosting, or keep them simple with just a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, but don’t hesitate to enjoy them year-round. I often bake a batch to share with friends as a lovely surprise.

Always a Crowd Pleaser

Whenever I bring Gingerbread Bars to a gathering, they disappear within minutes. Kids and adults alike can’t resist their chewy texture and rich flavor. They’ve become a staple at our holiday parties, and I love how they spark joy and create lasting memories for everyone who tries them.

Great for Gift Giving

Not only are these bars delicious, but they make for wonderful gifts too! I often package them in festive boxes or tins, tied with beautiful ribbons. They bring a personal touch that store-bought treats just can’t match. Every time I share these bars, I know I’m spreading a little holiday cheer.

Key Ingredients for Gingerbread Bars

When it comes to baking Gingerbread Bars, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that warm, comforting flavor we all love. The key players here are the aromatic spices and the rich sweetness from molasses. Together, they create a delightful blend that truly captures the essence of the season.

¾ cup unsalted butter: This forms the base of the bars, providing richness and a tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is essential; this helps balance the spices.
¼ cup molasses: A must-have for that classic gingerbread flavor, adding depth and moisture.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, giving the bars structure.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of any baked good, providing the necessary bulk.
1 teaspoon baking soda: This ensures our bars rise and have that perfect texture.
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground ginger: These spices create that comforting aroma and flavor.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
6 tablespoons cream cheese: Used in the frosting, for a rich, creamy finish.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Also in the frosting, it adds creaminess and richness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds subtle flavor in the frosting.
1 ½ cups powdered sugar: For sweetness and to achieve the right frosting consistency.

Cooking Instructions for Gingerbread Bars

Baking Gingerbread Bars is a simple yet rewarding process. You’ll love how the kitchen fills with delicious aromas while they bake! Follow these steps for guaranteed success.

Preheat your oven to 375° F. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Make sure the oven is fully heated before you place the bars inside.
Line a 13” x 9” baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside. This will help in easy removal of the bars once they’re baked, keeping them intact and easy to cut.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds. You want it to be creamy and soft.
Add the granulated sugar to the butter and continue beating for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is the foundation for your bars, providing sweetness and texture.
Next, add the egg and molasses, mixing on medium-low speed just until they are combined. You’ll notice the mixture will darken slightly from the molasses.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the sugar-molasses mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft, sticky dough.
Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared pan. Use a spatula to ensure it’s level, as this helps with even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the top appears dry. Keep an eye on them; they will puff up while baking but will deflate slightly as they cool.
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This is essential for the frosting to adhere properly.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer for about 30 seconds until smooth. Adding vanilla and powdered sugar, mix well until fluffy and thick.
Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, and feel free to dress them up with festive sprinkles! Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps to create a smoother batter and allows for better mixing.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. They should be soft in the center and firm around the edges.
Let them cool: Cooling completely before frosting is essential to prevent the frosting from melting.
Store properly: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Tips and Tricks about Gingerbread Bars

To enhance your experience with Gingerbread Bars, here are some invaluable tips and tricks:

Storage: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you live in a hot climate, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They can last up to three months.
Pairing: These bars go wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or a spiced chai latte, making them perfect for a cozy evening.
Frosting variations: Experiment with different frostings! A chocolate ganache or a simple glaze can create a whole new flavor profile.
Gift ideas: Package them in decorative boxes for a delightful homemade gift during the holidays.

Accompaniments for Gingerbread Bars

When serving Gingerbread Bars, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your experience:

Serve warm: Warm bars topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream create a comforting dessert.
Holiday gatherings: These bars are a hit at parties, so consider serving them during your next holiday gathering.
Seasonal pairings: Pair with spiced apple cider or warm tea for a cozy feel.
Storage tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container, or offer them as treats to friends.
Picnic treat: These bars make for a delicious, easy-to-carry dessert for picnics or outdoor events.

FAQ

Gingerbread Bars are soft, spiced dessert bars made with a blend of warm spices and molasses, often topped with cream cheese frosting. They are a popular treat during the holiday season, cherished for their comforting flavors and chewy texture. They capture the essence of gingerbread cookies but in a convenient bar form.

Absolutely! Gingerbread Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to frost them, it’s best to wait until just before serving to keep the frosting fresh. You can also freeze them for longer storage, wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

To store your leftover Gingerbread Bars, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If you live in a warm climate, it’s better to refrigerate them to maintain their freshness. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

When serving Gingerbread Bars, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also go well with beverages like hot cocoa or spiced tea, enhancing the cozy experience. You can serve them plain or frost them with cream cheese icing for an extra special treat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gingerbread Bars are a delightful and nostalgic treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. They are simple to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic of gingerbread in bar form. You won’t regret the delicious flavors and heartwarming memories they create!