Name: Irresistibly Soft Gingerbread Bars for a Cozy Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger for more flavor); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cups molasses (or honey as a sweeter alternative); 1 cups brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (may substitute with granulated sugar); 1 cup cream cheese frosting

A delightful aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of nostalgia. These Gingerbread Bars are the perfect embodiment of those festive moments, blending warm spices and sweetness into one irresistible treat. As we dive into the world of easy Christmas treats, you’ll find that these bars are not only simple to whip up but also a hit at any holiday gathering—ideal for the little helpers and adults alike. With their chewy texture and delightful flavors, they’re sure to evoke smiles and memories, transforming even the busiest days into joyful celebrations. Ready to spread some holiday cheer? Let’s explore how to make these delightful bars the centerpiece of your festive table!

Why Love Gingerbread Bars This Christmas?

Irresistible Aroma: The moment you take these Gingerbread Bars out of the oven, your home will be filled with a warm and inviting scent that beckons loved ones to the kitchen.

Chewy Texture: Each bite boasts the perfect chewy consistency, making them a delightful treat that kids and adults will adore.

Quick to Make: With straightforward steps, these bars are an ideal choice for busy holiday bakers—whip them up in no time!

Versatile Variation: Feel free to spice things up! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of chocolate for a tasty twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether at family gatherings or festive parties, they are guaranteed to be a hit, sparking joy and conversation around the table.

Pair Perfectly: Enjoy them alongside steaming cups of spiced cider or hot cocoa for a cozy treat that complements the holiday spirit beautifully.

With such appealing characteristics, these Gingerbread Bars are bound to become a cherished favorite in your holiday lineup!

Gingerbread Bars Ingredients

• Perfect for creating soft, spiced holiday treats.

For the Bars

All-purpose flour – Forms the base for a tender, chewy texture in your gingerbread bars.
Ground ginger – Provides the signature zing that makes gingerbread so beloved; fresh ginger can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and rich notes, complementing the ginger perfectly.
Molasses – Infuses moisture and depth, essential for that classic gingerbread taste; honey can be a sweeter alternative.
Brown sugar – Sweetens and enhances the softness of the bars while adding a hint of caramel flavor.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients and helps achieve that delightful chewiness we’ve come to love.
Baking soda – Helps the bars rise, ensuring they are soft and not dense.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of your gingerbread bars.

For the Topping

Powdered sugar – Perfect for dusting on top for a sweet finish; can be substituted with granulated sugar if needed.
Cream cheese frosting – Adds a tangy creaminess that beautifully complements the spices; it’s an easy way to elevate these treats even further.

With this thoughtful ingredient list, your Gingerbread Bars will surely become a centerpiece in your holiday festivities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. As you mix, take a moment to enjoy the spiced aroma that already hints at the festive gingerbread bars to come. Set the bowl aside, ready to join forces with the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of molasses until smooth and creamy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The mixture should become fluffy and light, radiating the joyous essence of holiday baking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients Together
Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; we want our gingerbread bars to be tender and chewy, not dense. The batter will be thick and aromatic, showcasing the warm spices that will bring joy to your festive gatherings.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. This little preparation ensures that your gingerbread bars won’t stick, allowing you to serve your treats with ease.

Step 5: Bake the Gingerbread Bars
Pour the gingerbread batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges will turn a lovely golden brown, tantalizing your senses as they fill the kitchen with comfort and warmth.

Step 6: Cool the Bars
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and allow the gingerbread bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set properly. Then, transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting, giving you time to plan the final touches that will make them truly festive.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate
While the bars are cooling, prepare your cream cheese frosting by mixing together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Once the gingerbread bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle with festive decorations or a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation of your delicious gingerbread bars.

Gingerbread Bars Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Gingerbread Bars with these mouthwatering ideas that will elevate your festive baking experience!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a delicious, lighter option.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the spices perfectly.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix in some ground cloves or allspice to enhance the warm spice profile of your bars for that cozy holiday touch.
Fruity Twist: Fold in some diced dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a chewy burst of flavor that balances beautifully with the ginger.
Chocolate Version: Swirl in some melted chocolate or mini chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent, delightful twist that infuses richness into your bars.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy this recipe without wheat, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Frosting Flavors: Spice up your cream cheese frosting by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon to make it even more irresistible.
Festive Toppings: Top with crushed peppermint candies or colored sprinkles for a dazzling holiday finish—great for kids and a fun touch for parties.

As you explore these variations, why not serve your bars with a delightful hot chocolate? It’s the perfect way to warm up your holiday gatherings. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to meld, and the bars will come out just as delicious when baked! Additionally, you can bake the bars ahead and store them unfrosted at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. Just allow them to cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw and frost the bars before your festive gathering, ensuring they remain moist and flavorful. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of easy holiday baking!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Bars

Room Temperature: Store gingerbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful chewiness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. They can be separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Thawing: To enjoy, thaw frozen gingerbread bars overnight in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Frosting: If topped with cream cheese frosting, consume within 3 days for optimal taste, as the frosting may soften over time.

What to Serve with Irresistibly Soft Gingerbread Bars?

Transform the joy of savoring Gingerbread Bars into a delightful holiday feast with these perfect pairings.

Spiced Hot Cider: Offers a warm, cozy flavor that beautifully complements the spices in gingerbread, enhancing the festive mood at any gathering.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: The rich, creamy sweetness and minty finish create a perfect contrast, making each bite of gingerbread even more delightful.
Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a rich and creamy complement, harmonizing beautifully with the spices of your gingerbread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth ice cream adds a cool and creamy touch that’s simply irresistible alongside warm gingerbread. The combination of temperatures and textures will make your taste buds dance in delight.
Cranberry Citrus Salad: A refreshing balance of tart cranberries and zesty citrus brightens up the sweet flavors of the gingerbread bars. This contrasting sharpness invigorates the palate.
Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the festive spirit alive with more gingerbread in a different form! The varying textures can lead to a robust holiday dessert spread.
Pecan Pie: Rich and nutty, this classic dessert offers a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the chewy gingerbread bars, creating a perfect ending to a holiday meal.
Mulled Wine: This aromatic drink serves as the ideal adult pairing, bringing warmth and spice that match seamlessly with the gingerbread’s cozy flavors.
Christmas Fruitcake: For those who appreciate tradition, the dense sweetness and fruitiness of fruitcake provides a wonderful contrast to the soft and spiced gingerbread bars.

By choosing these delightful accompaniments, you’ll create joyous holiday moments that embody the spirit of the season!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Bars

Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision; too much flour can lead to dense bars instead of the desired chewy texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the gingerbread bars.
Proper Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and helps the frosting hold its shape beautifully.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cloves to the batter for a more complex flavor profile in your gingerbread bars.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh ground spices to enhance the overall taste; stale spices can dull your festive flavors.
Store Correctly: Keep your gingerbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

Irresistibly Soft Gingerbread Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best molasses for my Gingerbread Bars?
Look for unsulfured molasses, as it provides the best flavor and is less bitter than sulfured varieties. Blackstrap molasses is a stronger flavor that can be used for a richer taste, but for traditional gingerbread, light or dark unsulfured molasses is ideal.

What’s the best way to store Gingerbread Bars?
Ensure your gingerbread bars are completely cooled, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep them moist and chewy. If you’d like to store them longer, place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Bars? How do I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze your gingerbread bars, first ensure they are fully cooled. Slice them into squares for easy serving, and then lay them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving.

Why did my Gingerbread Bars come out dense?
If your gingerbread bars are dense, it’s likely due to overmixing or using too much flour. Always measure flour accurately and mix the batter just until combined. This will help your bars maintain that perfect chewy texture rather than turning out tough.

Are there any dietary considerations for Gingerbread Bars?
Yes! For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Additionally, if you want to reduce sugar, use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be aware this may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially when using pre-packaged items like frosting or sprinkles.

How long can I keep cream cheese frosting on my Gingerbread Bars?
If your gingerbread bars are topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s best to consume them within 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to prevent the frosting from softening too much, maintaining that delightful texture for everyone to enjoy.