Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe for Cozy Baking

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Baking can be a joyful experience, especially when it involves warm, cozy flavors like gingerbread. Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that makes your kitchen smell amazing and brings a touch of warmth to any occasion. They are soft, sweet, and slightly spiced, making them perfect for holidays or any time you need a comforting dessert. Plus, they are easy to make, even for beginners!

Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Cookie Bars

These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a wonderful treat for anyone, especially beginners. This recipe is simple and does not require any fancy techniques. With just a few common ingredients, you can create a delicious dessert that tastes like a holiday hug. The combination of warm spices and sweet molasses makes these bars comforting and festive. And the best part? They are forgiving if you make small mistakes, so that you can bake with confidence!

Simple Steps to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Making Gingerbread Cookie Bars is a breeze! First, you’ll prepare your ingredients and mix them together. Then, you’ll bake the cookie bars in the oven until they’re just set. Once cooled, you’ll whip up a creamy frosting to finish them off. Finally, cut them into squares, and you’re ready to enjoy these tasty treats!

Ingredients

2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Small pinch of ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar (dark recommended)
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/3 cup (113g/80ml) unsulphured molasses (do not use blackstrap; Grandma’s brand is preferred)
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
6 ounces (170g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Small pinch each of ground ginger, cinnamon, & allspice (optional)
Optional for garnish: sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Adjust the oven rack to the center position. Line a 9×13-inch metal or glass baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, pepper, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and molasses. Whisk until there are no lumps. Then, whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the butter mixture into the flour mixture. Using a large spoon or silicone spatula, mix until no dry flour remains. The dough will be thick and shiny.
Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan. Press it into an even layer, even if it feels thin—that’s completely fine!
Bake for 23–26 minutes. The top should be set but still soft. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. If in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of under-baking.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 1 hour.
In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. If needed, scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Add the confectioners’ sugar, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and vanilla. Start mixing at low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed and mix for 2 more minutes, until creamy. If the frosting is too sweet, add a tiny pinch of salt.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. If you’d like, top with sprinkles.
To set the frosting, refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Once ready, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into squares.
Store any leftover bars tightly covered. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you skip the frosting, store the plain bars at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Simple Steps to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars

When to Serve Gingerbread Cookie Bars

These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are perfect for any occasion! Serve them as an after-school snack, at holiday gatherings, or with coffee for dessert. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you want to dress them up, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat!

How to Store Gingerbread Cookie Bars

To keep your Gingerbread Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you have frosted the bars, keep them in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 5 days. If they are plain, you can store them at room temperature for 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them. Just remember not to freeze these bars, as it can change their texture.

Tips for Success with Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Ensure you measure your flour accurately. Too much can make the bars dry. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup, then level it with a straightedge knife.
To check if the bars are done, look for a soft top that is set but still slightly springy when pressed.
If the frosting is too sweet, adding a pinch of salt can help balance the flavors without sacrificing its creaminess.
If you want a thicker frosting, feel free to add a bit more confectioners’ sugar until you achieve your desired consistency.

Easy Variations to Try

Spiced Nuts: Add finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough for a delightful crunch.
Chocolate Swirl: Fold in some chocolate chips or swirl in melted chocolate for added richness.
Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the spices.

FAQs

Can I make Gingerbread Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container until you are ready to frost and serve. This makes them an excellent option for busy holiday preparations!

What should I do if my bars are too dry?

If your bars turn out dry, make sure you are measuring the flour correctly. Next time, try underbaking them slightly and check for doneness with a toothpick. This ensures a moist texture.

Is there a way to fix runny frosting?

Yes! If your frosting is too runny, add more confectioners’ sugar a little at a time until you reach your desired thickness. Mixing on a low setting will help incorporate the sugar without making a mess.

Enjoying Your Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Baking these Gingerbread Cookie Bars is not just about making a dessert; it’s about creating a moment of joy and comfort. Each bite offers a cozy mix of spices and sweetness that can brighten any day. With their simplicity and delightful flavor, you can confidently add these bars to your baking repertoire. Enjoy preparing this tasty treat and share it with those you love for a truly special experience.

Reflect on how wonderful it feels to make your own Gingerbread Cookie Bars! Allow yourself to feel proud of the delicious treat you’ve created. Maybe next time, you’ll try a different variation or explore easier baking recipes.

Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe