Gingerbread Cookie Bars

gingerbread Cookie Bars are delightfully spiced treats that are filled with the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. They’re not heavy or overly sweet either. I think they’re a perfect holiday or wintertime dessert, and if you’re not a fan of the spices, feel free to adjust them to your liking. They will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a light & flavorful dessert that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a soft and chewy gingerbread base and top it with a creamy frosting, you get the perfect bar. The addition of spices just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for the holidays to arrive and these dreamy bars remind me of cozy winter days. Not a fan of all the spices? Don’t worry, they’re still delicious with your preferred spice level.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Electric mixer

Ingredients

For the gingerbread Bars:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   • In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
   • Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Spread the Batter:
   • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Bake the Bars:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the Bars:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack.
9. Prepare the Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and beat until combined.
10. Frost the Bars:
    • Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
    • Dust with ground cinnamon if desired.
11. Cut and Serve:
    • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
    • Cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these gingerbread Cookie Bars as a delightfully spiced treat for any holiday or wintertime gathering!