Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic gingerbread cookie, offering the same rich and warm flavors in a soft, chewy, and easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a festive treat, these bars are topped with a creamy frosting that adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Skip the rolling and cutting of traditional cookies—just press the dough into a pan and bake!
• Rich Holiday Flavors: Warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves make these bars irresistible.
• Perfect for Sharing: Easy to cut into squares and serve at parties or gatherings.
• Customizable: Frost them as you like or leave them plain for a simpler treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses
• Large eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Cream cheese (for frosting)
• Powdered sugar (for frosting)
• Vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in the molasses and eggs until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread over the cooled bars.
7. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 24 bars.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes.
• Total Time: About 40 minutes.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Spice Adjustments: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Toppings: Sprinkle crushed gingersnaps or cinnamon sugar on the frosting for added texture.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, flax eggs, and a plant-based cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature. Allow refrigerated bars to sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bars a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

2. What kind of molasses should I use?

Use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses as it can be too bitter.

3. Can I make these without frosting?

Absolutely! They are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds extra sweetness.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two pans for larger batches.

5. How do I prevent the bars from drying out?

Ensure you don’t overbake them and store them in an airtight container.

6. Can I use a different frosting?

Sure! Try a buttercream frosting or a simple glaze if you prefer.

7. What can I substitute for molasses?

You can use dark corn syrup or maple syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly.

8. Are these bars spicy?

They have a warm, spiced flavor, but you can adjust the ginger and cinnamon to your taste.

9. Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes, chopped nuts or white chocolate chips make great additions.

10. What size pan should I use if I don’t have a 9×13?

You can use two smaller pans or adjust baking time if using a different-sized pan.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you’re craving cozy, spiced flavors. Their ease of preparation and versatile frosting options make them a go-to recipe for festive occasions or a comforting dessert at home. Give this recipe a try, and share the joy of these delightful bars with family and friends!

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