Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating the most delicious and chewy holiday treat imaginable. If you love the warm, spicy flavor of gingerbread but want an easier alternative to rolling and cutting out individual cookies, then these Gingerbread Cookie Bars are your new best friend. This recipe captures all the classic, nostalgic taste of gingerbread in a simple, shareable bar form. Consequently, you get to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festive season with your loved ones. These soft, molasses-rich bars are perfectly spiced and topped with a sweet, creamy frosting, making them an instant holiday classic that everyone will request year after year.
Moreover, the beauty of these cookie bars lies in their simplicity. You simply mix the dough, press it into a pan, and bake. There’s no chilling required, and the cleanup is significantly easier. As a result, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you’re preparing for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just a cozy night in, these gingerbread cookie bars deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort. So, let’s get started on baking a batch of holiday cheer!
Why You’ll Adore These Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bars
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe, but the primary appeal is its perfect blend of convenience and classic flavor. Firstly, these gingerbread cookie bars are incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional gingerbread cookies that require chilling, rolling, and cutting, this recipe involves a straightforward process. You simply press the dough into a baking pan, which significantly cuts down on prep time and mess. Therefore, it’s an ideal choice for busy holiday schedules.
Secondly, the texture is absolutely divine. These bars are wonderfully soft and chewy, with a rich, moist crumb that melts in your mouth. The robust flavor of molasses, combined with a warm medley of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creates a taste that is quintessentially festive. Additionally, baking the dough in a single pan ensures that every single piece is consistently moist and delicious, avoiding the risk of dry or over-baked edges that can happen with individual cookies. For another amazing holiday bar recipe, check out these Cranberry Bliss Bars.
Finally, these bars are incredibly versatile and perfect for sharing. You can cut them into any size you like, making them suitable for everything from a large party platter to a small family dessert. They also travel well, so they’re a great option for potlucks, bake sales, or as a homemade gift for friends and neighbors. The simple yet elegant appearance, especially when topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, makes them a beautiful addition to any holiday spread.
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Gingerbread Cookie Bars: The 15 Ultimate Tips for the Perfect Holiday Batch
Soft, chewy, and warmly spiced, these Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a simpler alternative to traditional gingerbread cookies. Perfectly seasoned and topped with cream cheese frosting, they’re an easy, crowd-pleasing holiday treat.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tbsp ground ginger
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup unsulphured molasses
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk or cream, as needed
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined.
6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan using greased hands or a spatula.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
8. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
9. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in vanilla and milk to desired consistency.
10. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Use parchment paper to lift out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
Use only unsulphured molasses for the right flavor and texture—avoid blackstrap molasses.
For chewier bars, slightly underbake and allow to finish setting as they cool.
Store frosted bars in the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freeze unfrosted bars tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost just before serving.
Try adding white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Batch
The key to amazing gingerbread cookie bars is using high-quality ingredients that work together to create that signature flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role. For instance, the spices provide the warmth, while the molasses gives the bars their deep, rich color and chewiness. Here is a breakdown of what you will need.
The Foundation: Wet and Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure for the bars. Be sure to measure it correctly to avoid a dry or dense result.
- Baking Soda: This is our leavening agent, helping the bars rise just enough to be soft and not too dense.
- Spices: A classic blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg is essential for that unmistakable gingerbread flavor.
- Salt: A small amount enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a slight caramel note that complements the molasses perfectly.
- Egg: One large egg helps bind the ingredients together.
- Unsulphured Molasses: This is the star ingredient! It provides the deep, rich flavor and chewy texture. Do not use blackstrap molasses, as its flavor is too strong and bitter for this recipe.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the warm spice flavors beautifully.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Cream Cheese: Use a full-fat block, softened to room temperature, for the creamiest texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Also softened to room temperature.
- Powdered Sugar: Sift it to ensure a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Vanilla Extract: For a touch of extra flavor.
- Milk or Cream: Just a small amount to get the perfect spreading consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it is time to start baking! Follow these simple steps carefully, and you will have a perfect pan of gingerbread cookie bars in no time. The process is straightforward, so just relax and enjoy the wonderful holiday aromas that will fill your kitchen.
- Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This overhang will act as a handle to easily lift the bars out later.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Then, set this bowl aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Next, add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat again until everything is well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until combined. It is very important not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough bars.
- Press Dough into Pan: Transfer the dough to your prepared baking pan. Because the dough will be sticky, it helps to lightly grease your hands or a spatula to press it evenly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake for the chewiest texture.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is a crucial step before frosting; otherwise, the frosting will melt.
- Make the Frosting: While the bars are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract and a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Once the gingerbread cookie bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper handles to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut them into squares and serve.
Tips for the Best Gingerbread Cookie Bars Ever
While this recipe is quite simple, a few expert tips can elevate your gingerbread cookie bars from good to absolutely unforgettable. Paying attention to these small details ensures a perfectly chewy, flavorful, and beautiful result every time. These tricks are what separate a decent holiday treat from a spectacular one.
Use the Right Molasses
The type of molasses you use is critical. Always opt for unsulphured molasses, which has a cleaner, sweeter taste. Blackstrap molasses, in contrast, is much darker, more bitter, and has a very strong flavor that can easily overpower the other spices in the bars. Using the correct molasses guarantees that classic, well-balanced gingerbread flavor.
Measure Flour Correctly
How you measure your flour can make a huge difference in the texture of your bars. Instead of scooping the flour directly out of the bag with your measuring cup, use a spoon to fluff up the flour and then spoon it into the measuring cup. Afterwards, level it off with a straight edge. This “spoon and level” method prevents you from packing too much flour into the cup, which is a common cause of dry, dense baked goods.
Do Not Overbake
The secret to incredibly chewy gingerbread cookie bars is to slightly underbake them. You should pull them from the oven when the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. The bars will continue to cook from the residual heat of the pan as they cool. Overbaking, even by a minute or two, can result in a cakey or dry texture rather than a chewy one.
Let Them Cool Completely
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to baking. You must let the bars cool completely in the pan before you attempt to frost or cut them. Trying to frost them while they are still warm will cause the frosting to melt into a runny mess. Furthermore, allowing them to cool fully helps them set properly, making them much easier to slice into clean, neat squares. If you love perfectly cut holiday cookies, you might also enjoy making these flawless cutout sugar cookies.
Fun Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this gingerbread cookie bars recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your own tastes. While the classic version with cream cheese frosting is a crowd-pleaser, there are many ways to add your own creative twist. Consider these fun ideas to make your batch unique.
Switch Up the Toppings
Instead of cream cheese frosting, you could drizzle the bars with melted white chocolate for a different kind of sweetness. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of cinnamon also works wonderfully. For a festive touch, add some holiday-themed sprinkles, crushed peppermint candies, or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top before serving.
Incorporate Delicious Add-ins
Feel free to mix some tasty additions into the dough itself. For example, about a cup of white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped crystallized ginger can add another layer of flavor and texture. For a richer treat, you could also add chopped pecans or walnuts. These add-ins make the gingerbread cookie bars even more special and indulgent.
Experiment with Spices
You can adjust the spice blend to suit your preferences. If you love a strong ginger kick, feel free to add a little extra ground ginger. Some people also enjoy adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a more complex flavor profile. The health benefits of ginger are well-documented, with many sources like WebMD noting its anti-inflammatory properties.
Storing Your Treats for Lasting Freshness
Proper storage is key to keeping your gingerbread cookie bars fresh and delicious. Fortunately, they store very well, making them a great make-ahead option for the holidays. Whether you plan to enjoy them over a few days or save them for later, here is how to store them correctly.
For short-term storage, place the cut bars in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve used cream cheese frosting, it is best to store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. To prevent the bars from sticking together, you can place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between the layers. According to the Mayo Clinic, proper food storage is essential for preventing foodborne illness.
These gingerbread cookie bars also freeze beautifully. To freeze, let the unfrosted bars cool completely, then wrap the entire uncut slab tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, thaw the slab at room temperature, then prepare the frosting and frost them just before cutting and serving. This method ensures they taste just as fresh as the day they were baked.
Conclusion
In summary, these Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the perfect solution for anyone craving classic holiday flavor without all the fuss. Their wonderfully chewy texture, warm spice blend, and rich molasses taste make them an irresistible treat for the festive season. Furthermore, the simple press-in-pan method saves time and effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dessert with ease. Whether topped with creamy frosting or a simple glaze, these bars are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday baking tradition. Ultimately, this recipe proves that you don’t need a complicated process to create a truly spectacular and memorable holiday treat that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
While fresh ginger has a wonderful flavor, ground ginger is recommended for this recipe. Ground ginger provides a more concentrated, warm, and evenly distributed spice flavor that is characteristic of classic gingerbread. Fresh ginger would add too much moisture and change the texture of the bars.
Can I make these gingerbread cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend that contains xanthan gum. The results may be slightly different in texture, but they will still be delicious.
Why did my bars turn out dry instead of chewy?
Dryness in cookie bars is typically caused by one of two things: overbaking or using too much flour. To avoid this, make sure you are measuring your flour correctly using the “spoon and level” method. Additionally, be very careful not to overbake the bars. Pull them from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
