As the first hints of winter start to weave their magic, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the warm, spicy scent of ginger and molasses. There’s just something about the combination that instantly lifts my spirits, making any chilly day feel a bit brighter. I discovered these Gingerbread Cookie Bars during one such delightful afternoon when the rain was dancing against my window, and I needed a sweet escape from the mundane.
This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also effortlessly simple, allowing you to relish the joy of baking without the fuss. Imagine slicing into soft, chewy bars generously topped with a creamy frosting that may rival even your favorite bakery’s offerings. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet tooth or bringing a bit of seasonal cheer to a gathering, these bars are the perfect solution, striking the ideal balance between festive flavor and homey comfort. Let’s dive into the deliciousness that is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Why are Gingerbread Cookie Bars a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: These Gingerbread Cookie Bars combine warm spices such as ginger and cinnamon for a festive taste that gets everyone in the holiday spirit.
Effortless Baking: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can master this recipe without stress.
Creamy Delight: Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these bars elevate every bite, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Perfectly chewy: The soft, chewy texture of the bars offers a delightful contrast to the smooth topping, ensuring each piece is a satisfying treat.
Time-Saving Treat: No need to roll out dough—simply mix, bake, and frost for a homemade dessert that looks and tastes gourmet in a fraction of the time.
Transform your holiday baking with this easy, delicious recipe!
Gingerbread Cookie Bars Ingredients
Get ready to bake the best Gingerbread Cookie Bars you’ve ever tasted!
For the Cookie Base
- All-purpose flour – 2 and 1/4 cups provide a sturdy base perfect for chewy bars.
- Baking soda – 1 and 1/2 teaspoons helps the bars rise beautifully without becoming cakey.
- Ground ginger – 2 teaspoons pack a spicy punch that defines your gingerbread flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon adds warmth that perfectly complements the other spices.
- Ground allspice – 1/4 teaspoon offers a hint of complexity, enhancing the overall richness.
- Ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon provides a fragrant undertone that makes each bite memorable.
- Ground nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon contributes a warm, nutty aroma, enhancing the festive experience.
- Ground black pepper – A small pinch adds just enough heat to balance the sweetness.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon heightens the flavor profile and contrasts the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup, melted, ensures a rich and moist base; you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Brown sugar – 1/2 cup packed gives a deeper flavor, while granulated sugar complements it.
- Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup sweetens the bars perfectly without overpowering the spices.
- Unsulphured molasses – 1/3 cup adds that unmistakable gingerbread depth that makes these bars special.
- Egg – 1 large, at room temperature binds everything together for a perfect texture.
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon infuses warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Full-fat brick cream cheese – 6 ounces, softened, ensures a rich and velvety frosting that spreads easily.
- Unsalted butter – 2 Tablespoons, softened, enhances the creaminess of the frosting for a luscious finish.
- Confectioners’ sugar – 1 and 1/2 cups sweetens the frosting to perfection, balancing the tangy cream cheese.
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon adds extra flavor depth to the frosting, making it irresistible.
- Ground ginger, cinnamon, & allspice – A small pinch of each elevates the frosting with a festive twist.
For Garnish
- Sprinkles – An optional decorative touch that adds delight and a pop of color.
These ingredients combine to create something truly delightful—let’s bake!
How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to make it easy to lift the bars out later.
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Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl until well combined. This spice blend is essential for that classic gingerbread flavor!
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Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses in a medium bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to blend everything together.
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Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until no flour traces are visible, ensuring you have a smooth dough. Transfer this mixture to your prepared pan and press it into an even layer.
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Bake for 23–26 minutes, or until the top feels set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Once done, let the bars cool in the pan for at least 1 hour to set properly.
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Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together in a large bowl on medium-high speed until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and vanilla extract; start on low speed then increase to high until creamy and fluffy.
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Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top, then refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes for the frosting to set slightly before slicing.
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Cut the bars into squares after lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Enjoy fresh, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for later!
Optional: For an extra dash of festivity, consider garnishing with additional sprinkles before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Gingerbread Cookie Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into these Gingerbread Cookie Bars for a personalized touch!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Dairy-Free: Swap the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a creamy yet dairy-free experience.
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Sugar-Free: Substitute the granulated sugar with a suitable sugar replacement, like erythritol, for a guilt-free treat without sacrificing sweetness.
For a twist, consider using half brown sugar and half maple syrup. This will introduce a lovely depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
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Spiced Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm kick that balances beautifully with the sweetness and spices.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor, or top with crushed nuts before frosting for added crunch.
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Frosting Flavor: Experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or lemon, instead of vanilla in the frosting for a refreshing twist.
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Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for a rich, indulgent flair that elevates these bars to a new level of goodness.
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Chocolate Chips: Add dark chocolate or white chocolate chips into the batter for an exciting chocolatey contrast to the spices.
Each of these variations and substitutions can transform your Gingerbread Cookie Bars into a unique baking masterpiece that matches your taste and preferences!
Storage Tips for Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: Keep the leftover Gingerbread Cookie Bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use parchment paper to separate layers, preventing sticking.
Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Wrap them in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
What to Serve with Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
As you indulge in these delightful bars, imagine a cozy gathering filled with the aroma of spices and warmth.
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Warm Apple Cider: This comforting drink complements the warm spices in the bars, enhancing their cozy appeal during chilly days.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious, creamy contrast to the spiced bars, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
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Spiced Tea: A fragrant cup of spiced tea perfectly mirrors the ginger and cinnamon in the bars, making each bite a flavorful adventure.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness to the richness, balancing out the sweet frosting beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate drizzle over the bars elevates them to a decadent dessert masterpiece, perfect for chocoholics.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling creamy caramel over the bars introduces a sweet and buttery layer, enhancing the gingerbread flavors for a splendid treat.
Pair your Gingerbread Cookie Bars with these delicious accompaniments to create a magical dessert experience that lingers in your heart long after the last bite!
Tips for the Best Gingerbread Cookie Bars
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting. This ensures even mixing and a creamier texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until no flour is visible. Overmixing can make the bars tough instead of delightfully chewy.
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Check for Doneness: Avoid overbaking by checking the bars at the 23-minute mark. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they’re perfectly baked.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before frosting. This step prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a delightful layered experience.
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Frost with Care: When spreading the cream cheese frosting, use a gentle hand. Letting it set in the refrigerator for 30 minutes after frosting enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
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Storage Tips: Keep any leftover Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. Enjoy them cold or at room temperature!
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and let it cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. The cream cheese frosting can also be made up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the frosting over the cooled bars and optionally add sprinkles. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade holiday treats with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients like molasses, look for unsulphured varieties; they have a smoother flavor. Ensure your butter is unsalted and at room temperature for easy mixing. Room temperature eggs help create a better texture in your bars. Fresh spices are key, so check expiration dates on your ground ginger and cinnamon!
How should I store leftover Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
I often store my leftover Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days chilled, and I recommend placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For room temperature, they’ll be good for up to 3 days, but refrigeration helps retain their moistness!
Can I freeze Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, or leave them out at room temperature for a couple of hours. If a warm treat is your desire, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds!
What do I do if my Gingerbread Cookie Bars are too tough?
Very! If your bars turn out tough, it could be due to overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients. Remember to mix just until combined! If you overbaked, they may harden up. For a soft texture, try to take them out as soon as a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Also, let them cool properly before frosting, as this will help maintain softness.
Are there any dietary considerations for Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
You bet! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, note that the recipe contains gluten from all-purpose flour and dairy from butter and cream cheese. To modify, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend and use non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free option. Always inform guests of ingredient substitutions if you’re sharing these delightful bars!
Irresistible Gingerbread Cookie Bars Your New Holiday Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to make it easy to lift the bars out later.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt in a large bowl until well combined.
- Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses in a medium bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until no flour traces are visible, ensuring you have a smooth dough. Transfer this mixture to your prepared pan and press it into an even layer.
- Bake for 23–26 minutes until the top feels set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 1 hour.
- Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and vanilla extract until creamy and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars. Sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top, then refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes for the frosting to set.
- Cut the bars into squares after lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Enjoy fresh and store leftovers in the refrigerator.