Name: Chewy Gingerbread Bars That Will Spice Up Your Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Butter, melted (Let cool slightly after melting.); 1 cup Sugar (Swap with brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 1/4 cup Molasses (Dark molasses enhances taste.); 1 Egg (Use a flax egg for a vegan option.); 2 cups Flour (All-purpose is ideal, but whole wheat offers a healthier twist.); 2 teaspoons Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can use nutmeg for a different flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Ginger (Fresh ginger can intensify the flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Cloves (Try cardamom for variety.); 4 ounces Cream Cheese, softened (Essential for the frosting.); 2 tablespoons Butter, softened (Can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sifted helps avoid lumps.); 1 tablespoon Milk (Non-dairy milk works just as well.); 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla (Optional but highly recommended.); dash Salt (Enhances sweetness in the frosting.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of warm spices began to weave through the air, instantly transporting me to cherished holiday memories. These Chewy Gingerbread Bars are a festive delight that’s perfect for those of us who crave the season’s traditional flavors. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep, they offer a wonderfully chewy and fudgy texture, tantalizing taste buds while being incredibly family-friendly. The rich, spiced profile pairs perfectly with a creamy cream cheese frosting, making these bars an absolute crowd-pleaser for any gathering. So, are you ready to whip up a batch of these delightful treats that will elevate your holiday celebrations?

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Why Are These Gingerbread Bars Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—results in a warm and aromatic experience that captures the essence of the holidays.

Quick to Make: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up these delicious bars, making them a perfect last-minute addition to your holiday gatherings.

Family-Friendly: They’re soft, chewy, and suitable for all ages, ensuring everyone will enjoy this festive treat.

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts, creating a unique twist to suit your taste.

For a fun variation, don’t forget to check out my S’mores Bars Dessert, which is just as easy and festive!

Decadent Frosting: The creamy cream cheese frosting elevates these bars, making them an indulgent treat everyone will adore.

Chewy Gingerbread Bars Ingredients

For the Bars
• Butter (3/4 C, melted) – Adds richness and flavor; make sure to let it cool slightly after melting.
• Sugar (1 C) – Provides sweetness and structure; swap with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Molasses (1/4 C) – Gives the bars their signature gingerbread flavor and moisture; dark molasses enhances taste.
• Egg (1) – Binds ingredients together; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Flour (2 C) – Forms the base of the bars; all-purpose is ideal, but whole wheat offers a healthier twist.
• Baking Soda (2 t) – Acts as a leavening agent to light texture.
• Cinnamon (1 t) – Provides warmth and spice; can use nutmeg for a different flavor.
• Salt (1/2 t) – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Ginger (1/2 t) – Adds a warm, spicy note; fresh ginger can intensify the flavor.
• Cloves (1/2 t) – Complements other spices with a hint of sweetness; try cardamom for variety.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Creates a creamy texture and tangy flavor; essential for the frosting.
• Butter (2 T, softened) – Adds richness to the frosting; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Powdered Sugar (2 C) – Sweetens and smooths the frosting; sifted helps avoid lumps.
• Milk (1 T) – Adjusts the frosting’s consistency; non-dairy milk works just as well.
• Vanilla (1/2 t) – Adds depth to the frosting flavor; optional but highly recommended.
• Salt (dash) – Enhances sweetness in the frosting.

Get ready to indulge in these Chewy Gingerbread Bars that bring warmth and joy to your holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine 3/4 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of molasses. Beat these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, roughly for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll want to see the sugar dissolve and the mixture become light in color.

Step 2: Incorporate the Egg
Add 1 egg to the butter-sugar-molasses mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated, which should take another minute. The batter will become creamier as you blend. It’s essential that the egg is mixed in thoroughly to ensure the Chewy Gingerbread Bars hold together when baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon of cloves. Mix until well blended, ensuring there are no lumps in the flour to achieve even texture in your chewy bars.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing; you want the Chewy Gingerbread Bars to remain soft and tender, so stop as soon as you no longer see any dry flour.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. Spoon the gingerbread batter into the pan and use a spatula to evenly spread the mixture across the bottom, smoothing the top for an even bake. Ensure the mixture reaches all corners of the pan for a uniform texture.

Step 6: Bake the Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Chewy Gingerbread Bars for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, they are ready. The edges should start to pull away slightly from the pan, indicating they’re baked through.

Step 7: Cool in the Pan
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool. Allow them to cool completely in the pan—this typically takes about 30-45 minutes—so that they firm up enough to slice without crumbling.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the bars cool, in a medium bowl, combine 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla, and a dash of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy, which will only take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 9: Frost the Cooled Bars
Once the Chewy Gingerbread Bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish. The frosting will not only enhance the flavor but also add a festive touch to your holiday dessert.

Step 10: Chill and Serve
For best results, refrigerate the frosted bars for at least an hour before slicing them into squares. This chilling time will help the frosting set up nicely, making your Chewy Gingerbread Bars even more delightful to serve and eat!

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Variations & Substitutions for Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Feel free to get creative and make these bars your own; the possibilities are endless!

Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent flavor twist that pairs beautifully with the spices in gingerbread.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute half of the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. This not only changes the texture but adds a nutty richness.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a lovely crunch that complements the soft bars.
Spice Variations: Swap out cloves for cardamom or use a mix of spices for a custom flavor profile. A dash of allspice can also enhance the warmth of the bars.
Dairy-Free Frosting: Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut milk for the frosting to make it completely dairy-free without sacrificing taste.
Extra Spice Kick: Increase the ginger to 1 teaspoon if you adore a bolder ginger flavor. Fresh ginger can also add a fantastic punch!
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Put a twist on tradition by incorporating 1/2 cup of pure pumpkin puree into the batter for a pumpkin-gingerbread fusion that’s simply delightful.
Zesty Lemon Frosting: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the frosting for a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich taste of the bars that lightens up the overall flavor.

As you explore these variations, you might also enjoy desserts like my delicious Vanilla Cheesecake Bars, which are another charming way to celebrate the season!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Fridge: Store leftover Chewy Gingerbread Bars in an airtight container for up to one week. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Frosting Tip: If the frosting separates after freezing, simply give it a quick stir or re-whip before spreading on the thawed bars.

Helpful Tricks for Chewy Gingerbread Bars

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until the dry ingredients are combined to keep your Chewy Gingerbread Bars tender and chewy.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the bars; it should come out clean. Underbaking slightly gives a fudgier texture.

• Cool Completely: Ensure the bars are completely cool in the pan before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the cream cheese frosting.

• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to substitute the flour or add chocolate chips and nuts to create your delightful twist on these Chewy Gingerbread Bars.

• Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerate the frosted bars for at least an hour before slicing to help the frosting set and make clean cuts.

What to Serve with Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Enjoy the festive essence of the holidays by creating a delightful spread to accompany these rich and chewy bars.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: This comforting drink pairs perfectly, enhancing the warm spices while chocolate complements the ginger flavor beautifully.
Spiced Apple Cider: Aromatic and warming, this drink brings the cozy feel of autumn, making your dessert experience even more special.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the chewy bar’s spiced richness, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a casual touch, allowing the spiced flavors of the bars to shine.
Nutty Trail Mix: A homemade mix of nuts and dried fruits provides a crunchy texture, balancing the soft bars while adding a wholesome element.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple addition of melted chocolate drizzled over the bars can enhance the dessert’s richness and make it even more indulgent.
Ginger Tea: Brewed ginger tea complements the spiced elements, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
Cranberry Relish: A tangy cranberry relish adds a fresh and tart note, offsetting the sweetness and rounding out your dessert table beautifully.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of citrus and seasonal fruits invigorates the palate, providing a bright and refreshing counterpoint to the rich bars.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Gingerbread Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, refrigerate the wet mixture in an airtight container and keep the dry ingredients in a separate bowl; this prevents moisture from affecting the texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the mixtures and proceed with baking. Additionally, you can frost the bars ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before serving. Just allow them to come to room temperature for a few moments before cutting, ensuring you enjoy these delicious bars at their best!

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Chewy Gingerbread Bars Recipe FAQs

What kind of molasses is best for this recipe?
Using dark molasses will enhance the flavor and richness of your Chewy Gingerbread Bars, as it provides a more robust taste compared to light molasses. If you want a milder flavor, you can opt for light molasses, but I highly recommend dark for a truly authentic gingerbread experience.

How should I store leftover bars?
Leftover Chewy Gingerbread Bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them to avoid moisture buildup, which can affect their texture.

Can I freeze Chewy Gingerbread Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours, and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting?
To avoid melting or sliding of the cream cheese frosting, ensure your Chewy Gingerbread Bars are completely cooled before applying the frosting. After frosting, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before serving to help the frosting set nicely.

Can I make these bars without eggs?
Yes! For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This will bind your ingredients just as effectively while keeping the bars vegan-friendly.

What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter turns out too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to achieve the desired consistency. It should be thick but spreadable. Just be careful not to add too much at once; a little goes a long way in getting that perfect fudgy texture!