Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe

Craving something festive, spicy, and full of comforting flavors? Then you're in for a treat! Gingerbread cookie bars are the perfect way to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread with a convenient bar-style twist. These bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with that delightful gingerbread spice that we all love. Whether you're preparing them for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a cozy snack at home, this recipe will not disappoint. Read on to discover how to make these delicious treats, step-by-step, and get some tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time!

this Recipe

---

What Are Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

Gingerbread cookie bars are a simplified, easy-to-make version of traditional gingerbread cookies. Instead of rolling and cutting individual cookies, you bake the entire batter in a single pan, then cut it into bar-shaped pieces after baking. The result? A soft, moist, and chewy texture with all the flavor of classic gingerbread, but with a fraction of the effort. The ingredients that give these bars their signature flavor include ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and molasses, working together to create that warm, spiced goodness that makes gingerbread such a beloved treat, especially around the holidays.

---

Ingredients List for Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Here's a list of ingredients you'll need to prepare these irresistible gingerbread cookie bars:

1. All-purpose flour – 2 ¼ cups
   This serves as the base for your bars, giving them structure and softness.
2. Ground ginger – 2 teaspoons
   Essential for that iconic gingerbread flavor.
3. Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
   Adds warmth and depth to the spice profile.
4. Ground cloves – ½ teaspoon
   A small amount, but it contributes an aromatic and slightly sweet heat.
5. Baking soda – 1 teaspoon
   Helps the bars rise slightly for a light texture.
6. Salt – ¼ teaspoon
   Enhances the flavor of all the other ingredients.
7. Unsalted butter – ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks), softened
   Creates a rich, buttery texture and flavor.
8. Brown sugar – ¾ cup, packed
   Adds sweetness and moisture, with a deep, molasses-like flavor that complements the spices.
9. Molasses – ½ cup
   The star of the recipe! Molasses gives gingerbread its signature richness and dark color.
10. Egg – 1 large
    Helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure.
11. Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
    Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.
12. Optional Topping: Cream cheese frosting or powdered sugar
    A creamy frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate the presentation and sweetness of your bars.

---

Substitutions and Variations for Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Need to tweak the recipe to suit dietary needs or personal preferences? Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Be sure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
2. Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or plant-based butter alternative.
3. Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
4. Spice Variations: Want a little more kick? Add a pinch of black pepper to the batter, or swap out the cloves for nutmeg for a slightly different spice blend.
5. Sweetener Substitutes: If you’re avoiding refined sugar, you can substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar. For a lower sugar option, try reducing the sugar by ¼ cup and increasing the molasses slightly to compensate for moisture.
6. Add-ins: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. Or, stir in some candied ginger for an added spicy-sweet bite.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps create a light texture for the bars.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, followed by the molasses and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.
6. Spread the Batter: Spread the gingerbread batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the bars to remain soft and chewy.
8. Cool and Frost: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, you can either frost them with cream cheese frosting or sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a simpler presentation.

---

How to Cook Gingerbread Cookie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Baking Tools: Ensure you have a greased and parchment-lined 9x13 inch pan ready before you start mixing. This will save time and make for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Thoroughly, But Gently: While it's essential to fully incorporate your ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter once you've added the flour. This will help keep your bars light and tender.
3. Watch the Baking Time: Set a timer and check your bars at the 20-minute mark. You want them just set, with a soft, chewy center. Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly bars.
4. Let Them Cool Completely: Patience is key here. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing or adding any frosting. This ensures they set properly and hold their shape when cut.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to tough, dense bars instead of soft, chewy ones.
2. Overbaking: Gingerbread cookie bars should be soft and moist. Keep an eye on them to prevent them from drying out in the oven.
3. Skipping the Cooling Process: Cutting the bars too early can cause them to crumble. Make sure they cool fully before slicing.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautiful presentation, consider these ideas:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the cooled bars and sprinkle with cinnamon for a classic look.
2. Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a simpler, less sweet option, dust the bars with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve.
3. Holiday-Themed Decorations: Add festive sprinkles or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra decorative touch. If you're serving these during the holiday season, a few edible snowflakes or silver dragees can make a stunning impression.

---

How to Serve Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gingerbread cookie bars are perfect served alongside a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of milk. They also make a great addition to any holiday dessert platter or can be wrapped up and given as edible gifts. For special occasions, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

---

Presentation Ideas for Gingerbread Cookie Bars

• Festive Platter: Arrange the bars on a large platter and garnish with cinnamon sticks and sprigs of fresh rosemary for a holiday feel.
• Gift-Wrapped Treats: Place the bars in decorative tins or wrap them individually in cellophane with a ribbon for an easy, homemade gift.

---

Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep the bars chewy by pulling them out of the oven just as the edges set and the center is still slightly soft.
3. Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you love a stronger ginger flavor, add an extra teaspoon of ginger.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze gingerbread cookie bars?
A: Yes! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q: How long do gingerbread cookie bars stay fresh?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they should stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely. You can double the ingredients and bake in two separate pans or a larger pan, just be mindful of baking times as they may need a bit longer.

---

Conclusion

Gingerbread cookie bars are the perfect festive dessert, offering all the spicy-sweet flavors of traditional gingerbread with a soft, chewy texture that’s hard to resist. With minimal prep time and versatile serving options, these bars are ideal for holiday parties, cozy evenings at home, or as a delicious homemade gift. Try this recipe today, and you'll see why gingerbread cookie bars are a must-have treat for any season!

Print