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Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Irresistibly Chewy Gingerbread Bars for a Cozy Holiday Treat

These Chewy Gingerbread Bars are a delightful blend of classic spices and a chewy texture, perfect for a cozy holiday treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 12 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 1 cup Butter Adds moisture and richness; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Sugar Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar can deepen the flavor profile.
  • 0.5 cup Molasses Contributes a rich flavor and moisture; maple syrup can work as a lighter alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ingredients for optimal structure; a flax egg is a great vegan substitute.
  • 2 cups Flour Forms the base structure; all-purpose flour is standard but oat flour can be a gluten-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Enhances flavor with warmth; consider using pumpkin pie spice for a twist.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness; essential for flavor, but can be slightly reduced if using salted butter.
  • 2 teaspoons Ginger Offers a warm, spicy flavor that’s integral to gingerbread; ground ginger works beautifully here.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cloves Imparts a warm spice note; nutmeg can be used as an alternative.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (softened) Creates a creamy texture; vegan cream cheese is a perfect substitute.
  • 0.5 cup Butter (softened) Adds richness; opt for plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting; coconut sugar can be a less refined option.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Adjusts frosting consistency; almond milk or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Boosts flavor; this can be omitted for a simpler frosting.
  • 1 pinch Salt Enhances sweetness; only a small dash is needed.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric Mixer
  • Whisk
  • Baking pan
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Bars
  1. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and combine it with sugar and molasses. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and well-blended (2-3 minutes).
  2. Crack in the egg and continue to beat until completely smooth and creamy (about 1 minute).
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch pan or line with parchment paper. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan (30-45 minutes).
  7. Prepare the frosting by beating together cream cheese and butter, then add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy (3-5 minutes).
  8. Spread cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled bars. Refrigerate for at least one hour to set the frosting.
  9. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgSugar: 12gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual bars and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.

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