Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Gingerbread cookie bars are the ultimate holiday treat, inviting you into a warm kitchen filled with the delightful aroma of spices. Picture this: fresh from the oven, these bars exhibit a rich, golden-brown hue, their soft, chewy texture ready to embrace the perfect layer of cream cheese frosting. This recipe brings together the spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, just like your favorite gingerbread cookies, but in a more accessible bar form.
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I still remember the first time I made these gingerbread cookie bars for a holiday gathering. The smile on my niece’s face, as she took the first bite, is a memory I cherish. The way the spices danced on her palate, topped with the creamy frosting—it was a moment of pure joy that brought warmth to our family celebration. Perfect for cozy gatherings or even a sweet afternoon treat, these bars have a way of bringing people together. It’s time to get excited about baking these gingerbread cookie bars!
Why This Is The Best Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe
What makes this recipe for gingerbread cookie bars stand out? It’s simple and straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to whip up a delightful batch in just about 15 minutes of prep time and a quick bake in the oven. The aroma is mouthwatering, filled with warm spices that evoke the comforting essence of the holiday season. Though they are spectacularly delicious on their own, the luscious cream cheese frosting elevates them to a new level of indulgence.
Visually, the bars are stunning on any dessert table or holiday platter, and their chewy texture paired with the tangy frosting makes them irresistible. These bars can be enjoyed anytime—whether for breakfast, dessert, a snack, or at a potluck. Plus, they can easily adapt if you have gluten-free needs with minimal substitutions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Butter (1/2 cup softened): This rich fat brings flavor and moisture to the bars. Use unsalted butter for better control over the salt content.
Cream Cheese (1 (8 oz) package softened): Essential for the creamy frosting that complements the spiced bars. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar (2 1/2 cups): This gives the frosting a sweet kick and smooth texture. Use freshly sifted sugar if possible for a fluffier icing.
Vanilla (1/2 tsp for frosting + 2 tsp for bars): Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor in both the bars and the frosting; it’s worth using quality extract here.
Flour (2 cups + 2 tbsp): All-purpose flour provides structure to the bars. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Ginger (1 1/2 tsp): Ground ginger infuses that classic gingerbread flavor; fresh ginger can be used for a stronger taste, but the balance of spices may need adjustment.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): This warm spice adds depth to the mix and complements the ginger perfectly.
Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): A hint of nutmeg gives the bars that holiday warmth. Grated nutmeg can intensify the flavor.
Cloves (1/4 tsp): A touch of ground cloves enhances the spiciness, rounding out the gingerbread profile.
Baking Soda (1 tsp): This leavening agent helps the bars rise, making them soft and fluffy.
Salt (1/2 tsp): A little salt heightens the flavors in the bars, balancing the sweetness.
Butter (3/4 cup melted & cooled slightly): Adding melted butter incorporates richness and moisture, while cooling it slightly prevents cooking the egg when mixed.
Brown Sugar (1 cup): Brown sugar brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the base of the bars.
Molasses (1/4 cup, unsulphured): This ingredient is crucial for achieving that classic gingerbread flavor and color, adding complexity to the sweetness.
Egg (1): Eggs bind the mixture, contributing to the chewy texture of the bars.
How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, grab a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to ensure the bars release easily. This pan size is perfect for allowing the bars to rise without overflowing while maintaining that soft center. Have baking parchment handy to line the pan if you want even easier removal!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium size bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This step not only mixes the spices evenly, but it also allows the baking soda to activate properly when combined with the wet ingredients. Make sure there are no lumps in your flour for the fluffiest outcome. You want these spices to dance in your bars, imparting that warm aromatic flavor we all adore!
Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and molasses until the mixture is well combined and smooth. The trick here is to beat them well until the sugar starts to dissolve into the butter—this will create a fantastic flavor base. Add the egg and the 2 teaspoons of vanilla, mixing until creamy and fully combined. The butter and sugars should hold a light color, signifying that air is incorporated.
Fold Together Gently
With your mixer set to low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. This method ensures that you won’t create a dusty mess and helps to blend the ingredients without over-mixing. Stop as soon as you see no flour streaks; the dough will be thick and somewhat sticky, perfect for spreading into your pan. Use a spatula if necessary to gently fold in any stubborn flour patches lurking at the bottom.
Bake Until Golden
Pour the dough into your prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 14-17 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top will look set, and the scent of spices will fill your kitchen. Keep an eye on them; baking time may vary based on different ovens.
Make the Frosting
While the bars cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter and cream cheese. Once blended, gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until fluffy and smooth. Finally, mix in that 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla to add an extra layer of flavor. The frosting should be thick yet spreadable—if it’s too stiff, add a teaspoon of milk to help loosen it without sacrificing taste.
Frost and Enjoy
Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top in an even layer. If you’re planning to decorate these gingerbread cookie bars, wait to cut them into bar shapes before adding any sprinkles or holiday decorations. The final touch enhances not just the flavor but makes these bars visually pleasing for your holiday table.
Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough after adding dry ingredients to keep the bars tender.
- Bake until just golden; they will set a bit as they cool.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges and a lovely presentation.
Serve It With
These delightful gingerbread cookie bars are fabulous on their own, but they can be jazzed up even more. Consider pairing them with whipped cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for an added indulgent experience. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a festive touch, or serve alongside a steaming cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon treat. They are also a great addition to any holiday brunch spread, where they can dazzle alongside other seasonal pastries.
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer them chilled, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: For a longer shelf life, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Reheating: If you wish to warm them, pop them in a 350-degree oven for about 5-7 minutes. The gentle heat will refresh their softness and enhance the spices.
Tips & Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding a teaspoon of cardamom or swapping some of the spices to create your unique blend.
- If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute coconut cream for cream cheese and use dairy-free butter.
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for a delightful twist.
- You can use a mix of white and brown sugar for a lighter frosting flavor—perfect if you find cream cheese too rich.
- Tailor the spices to your liking, adjusting amounts based on personal preference and what you have on hand.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend—make sure it’s one that can be used cup-for-cup in baking. This will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these delightful treats without compromising on flavor or texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you want an alternative to cream cheese, consider using mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Both provide a similar creamy texture and can be flavored with vanilla just like the original recipe.
Can I add frosting variations?
Yes! If you’re craving something a bit different, a simple icing sugar glaze with milk can be a fantastic alternative. Or, mix in spices like cinnamon or orange zest for a unique twist on the cream cheese frosting.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
When done, the edges of the bars will look golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. The tops will feel set and slightly spring back when touched.
These gingerbread cookie bars are not just dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors and memories perfect for the cozy season. Bake a batch, share them with loved ones, and revel in the joy they bring. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, experiment and make them your own. Enjoy this delightful recipe that brings comfort and cheer!
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📖 Recipe Card
Gingerbread Cookie Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These gingerbread cookie bars offer a warm, cozy flavor with a delightful cream cheese frosting. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla (for frosting)
- 2 tsp vanilla (for bars)
- 2 cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup melted & cooled unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses (unsulphured)
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth; add the egg and vanilla.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients until just combined; pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 14-17 minutes or until golden brown; allow to cool.
- Prepare frosting by mixing cream cheese and butter, then adding powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once cool, frost the bars evenly and cut into squares.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Avoid over-mixing the dough to keep the bars tender.
Store leftovers in an airtight container; can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
