Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They’re tender, spiced beautifully, and filled with the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Whether you’re whipping them up for the holidays or just craving something sweet, these bars are easy to make and always a hit!
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 180mg
Why Make Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
These Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also nutritious! Packed with warming spices, they provide a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen. The bars are super customizable, allowing you to experiment with different frostings or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Plus, they can be enjoyed warm out of the oven or served later, making them a versatile dessert option.
How to Make Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars Step by Step
Ingredients
3/4 cup melted butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup sugar
1 egg, room temperature
1/2 cup molasses
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ginger
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup butter (for buttercream frosting)
1/4 cup milk (for buttercream frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream frosting)
3 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream frosting)
6 oz. cream cheese (for cream cheese frosting)
1/4 cup melted butter (for cream cheese frosting)
2 cups powdered sugar (for cream cheese frosting)
2 tablespoons milk (for cream cheese frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese frosting)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before frosting.
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat butter, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread over cooled bars.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and melted butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and beat until creamy.
- Spread over cooled bars.
How to Serve Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Serve Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars as a delightful dessert after a busy week night dinner or alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. They also make a lovely addition to holiday gatherings, potluck parties, or as a handout to friends and neighbors during the festive season. Pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
How to Store Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
To store your Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them! Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight and warm them slightly before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ginger and cinnamon slightly.
- For an extra soft texture, do not overmix the batter.
- Wrap your cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap to keep them moist.
- Try doubling the frosting recipe for an even richer experience!
Delicious Variations of Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
To add a twist to your Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars, consider incorporating different spices such as cardamom for a unique flavor. For a nutty crunch, fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans. You could also switch up the frostings by adding a hint of citrus zest to either the buttercream or cream cheese frosting for a refreshing contrast.
Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a must-try for everyone who loves the classic taste of gingerbread. They are simple to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for sharing. Enjoy their unique flavor and the warm, cozy vibes they bring!
Soft Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before frosting.
- Beat butter, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread over cooled bars.
- Beat cream cheese and melted butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract and beat until creamy.
- Spread over cooled bars.
