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There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when baking Gingerbread Cookie Bars. As the sweet scent of molasses blends with the spicy notes of ginger and cinnamon, you can’t help but feel the cozy embrace of the holidays—regardless of the season. I discovered this delightful recipe during a rainy afternoon, a perfect reason to seek solace in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, these bars manage to deliver a comforting dessert that’s both easy to prepare and pleasing to a crowd.

What sets these Gingerbread Cookie Bars apart is their incredible versatility. One moment, they can be a festive treat adorned with colorful sprinkles, and the next, they can shine as a cozy dessert after a weeknight dinner. They combine the delightful chewiness of a cookie with a luscious cream cheese frosting, making every bite an indulgence worth savoring. If you’re tired of the same old snacks and craving the embrace of homemade goodness, these bars are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into this uncomplicated recipe and transform your kitchen into a haven of sweet memories!

Why are Gingerbread Cookie Bars a must-try?

Delectable flavor: The rich spices of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses blend to create an unforgettable taste that perfectly captures the essence of the holidays.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick sweet fix.

Versatile treat: Dress them up with festive sprinkles or enjoy them plain; these bars fit any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday celebrations.

Crowd-pleaser: Their delightful combination of chewy texture and creamy frosting ensures they’ll be a hit at get-togethers, making them hard to resist!

Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch, slice them up, and share the joy—friends and family will love the gesture, and you’ll enjoy the compliments!

Gingerbread Cookie Bars Ingredients

• To create these cozy delights, gather a few simple items from your pantry!

For the Bars

All-purpose flour – 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) gives these bars their structure.
Baking soda – 1 and 1/2 teaspoons helps the bars rise for a tender texture.
Ground ginger – 2 teaspoons adds that essential spiciness that makes gingerbread signature.
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon enhances the warm, comforting flavor profile.
Ground allspice – 1/4 teaspoon contributes a hint of depth that balances the sweetness.
Ground cloves – 1/4 teaspoon for a warm, fragrant touch.
Ground nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon adds a nutty warmth, perfect for holiday baking.
Ground black pepper – A small pinch elevates the spices with a surprising kick.
Salt – 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the overall flavors.
Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g), melted, for moisture and richness in the bars.
Brown sugar – 1/2 cup (100g), packed, for a lovely caramel note and moisture.
Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup (100g) balances the flavors with sweetness.
Unsulphured molasses – 1/3 cup (113g/80ml) for that deep, rich flavor characteristic of gingerbread.
Large egg – 1 at room temperature binds the ingredients and helps with texture.
Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon adds a lovely aromatic sweetness.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Full-fat cream cheese – 6 ounces (170g), softened, ensures a creamy, luscious frosting.
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons (28g), softened, to enhance creaminess and flavor.
Confectioners’ sugar – 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) sweetens the frosting and lends it a delightful texture.
Pure vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon for that sweet, comforting essence.
Ground ginger – A small pinch for an extra hint of warmth in the frosting.
Ground cinnamon & allspice – A small pinch of each mirrors the spice blend in the bars.

Optional for Garnish

Sprinkles – Add a festive touch if desired!

These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are about to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, ground black pepper, and salt in a large bowl. This fragrant spice blend is the heart of the bars!
Combine melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and unsulphured molasses in a medium bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, then add in the room temperature egg and pure vanilla extract for an extra kick of flavor.
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until there are no traces of flour left, creating a beautiful, sticky dough. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking pan and press it into an even layer.
Bake for 23–26 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Let the bars cool in the pan on a cooling rack for at least 1 hour—patience pays off!
Prepare the frosting by beating softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a large bowl until smooth. Then blend in confectioners’ sugar, a pinch of ground ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and pure vanilla extract until creamy and delicious.
Spread the decadent cream cheese frosting over the cooled bars. For the best results, refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cut the bars into squares and store them tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though they may not last that long with how tasty they are!

Optional: Top with festive sprinkles for a cheerful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Flour Measurement: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement; packing flour can lead to dry bars.
Egg Temperature: Ensure your egg is at room temperature for better emulsification, leading to a richer texture in your Gingerbread Cookie Bars.
Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process; allowing the bars to cool completely ensures they set properly and hold their shape when slicing.
Frosting Consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve a spreadable consistency without losing flavor.
Storage Tips: Keep the bars tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain their moisture and flavor for up to 5 days.
Optional Garnish: Feel free to experiment with various toppings like crushed nuts or holiday-themed sprinkles for added texture and seasonal flair!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

Imagine cozying up with friends or family around the table, as the warmth of freshly baked bars envelops the room.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolaty warmth perfectly contrasts the spiciness of the bars, making for a comforting pairing on chilly nights.
Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee elevate the sweetness of the frosting, adding a lovely balance that coffee lovers will savor.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream enhances the creamy texture, adding delightful lightness to each scrumptious bite.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or ginger ice cream brings a cool sensation that beautifully complements the warm bars, creating a delightful contrast.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite harmonizes with the ginger and cinnamon, creating a festive ambiance that feels like a holiday hug.
Spiced Apple Cider: The sweet-tartness of apple cider and spices mirrors the flavors in the bars while offering a refreshing sip to balance the sweetness.
Pecan Pie: These two desserts can dance together on the plate, as the nuttiness of pecan pie adds depth to the spiced sweetness of the bars.
Fruit Salad: A fresh and vibrant fruit salad creates a lovely contrast of textures and flavors, cutting through the richness for a balanced dessert experience.

Enjoying your Gingerbread Cookie Bars has never been more delightful with these tasty accompaniments!

Gingerbread Cookie Bars Variations

Bring your creativity to life and make these delightful bars uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Vegan: Use flax eggs in place of the large egg, swap the butter for coconut oil, and ensure the frosting is dairy-free cream cheese.
Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor contrast.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce through the batter before baking for a sweet and gooey surprise.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chunks to the dough, creating a rich explosion of flavor with every bite.
Spiced Up: Increase the amount of ground ginger to 1 tablespoon or add a dash of cayenne for a subtle but pleasing heat that warms the soul.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate 1 cup of finely chopped dried cranberries or apples into the dough for a fruity vibrant addition.
Frosting Flare: Experiment with flavored extracts in the frosting, such as almond or maple, for an unexpected twist on the classic recipe.

These variations will make your Gingerbread Cookie Bars even more enjoyable and allow you to share your unique taste with family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store un-frosted bars in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. Frosted bars will soften more quickly at room temperature.
Fridge: Keep your frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps the flavors meld and maintains their deliciousness.
Freezer: Freeze un-frosted bars in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Once firm, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy chilled bars, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, bake the bars ahead and refrigerate them without frosting for up to 3 days; just allow them to cool completely and wrap them well. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the cream cheese frosting and spread it over the bars—it takes just a few minutes to make. This way, you’ll have a truly delicious dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort! Enjoy homemade goodness without the rush during busy weeks!

Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh spices for the most vibrant flavors. Check for dark spots or clumps in your spices to avoid stale ones. Additionally, using room temperature eggs and unsalted butter will help create a better texture and flavor in your bars.

What is the best way to store Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
For optimal freshness, store your frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars tightly covered in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 5 days. If left at room temperature, they can last 2 days; however, they tend to soften more quickly.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Cookie Bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, first cool and frost them. Then, place the un-frosted bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Once firm, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container. Enjoy them for up to 3 months for a cozy treat!

How do I troubleshoot if my Gingerbread Cookie Bars turn out dry?
Very! If your bars turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking or measuring flour incorrectly. Ensure you spoon and level your flour to avoid packing it too tightly. If they seem dry after baking, you can drizzle a bit of additional frosting on top for moisture and flavor enhancement!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
Certainly! For those with dairy allergies, substitute the cream cheese frosting with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Always verify ingredient labels to avoid allergens. If making for pets, remember that chocolate and certain sweeteners are harmful; keep these bars to the humans!

Can I adapt the spices in my Gingerbread Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! If you’re low on certain spices or prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the ginger, cinnamon, and other spices to your taste. Just keep in mind that the classic gingerbread flavor profile comes from that delightful spice combination, so go easy on the adjustments!