The moment the rich, spiced aroma of freshly baked Gingerbread Bars fills my kitchen, it’s like a warm embrace that invites everyone in. I find a sense of comfort in preparing these delightful treats, especially as the days grow cooler and the holiday spirit begins to creep in. With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a moist, flavorful dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.
After a long week, there’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of these bars. They’re so simple to make—just mix, bake, and savor—that even novice bakers will feel like pros. Best of all, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply indulging in alone while watching your favorite holiday movie. Get ready to delight your taste buds and fill your home with the magic of gingerbread!
Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Bars
- These Gingerbread Bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps that will have you baking like a pro in no time.
- The rich spices create a warm and inviting flavor that will fill your home with delightful aromas, perfect for any cozy gathering.
- They’re wonderfully versatile, whether enjoyed as a holiday treat or a comforting dessert any time of the year, making them a true pantry staple.
- Visually, they slice beautifully into squares, making for an appealing presentation that will impress your friends and family.
- Easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing, these bars can quickly become a favorite for any occasion.
Gingerbread Bars Ingredients
Warm your heart with these delightful Gingerbread Bars!
For the Base
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This gives structure and a tender crumb to your bars.
• 2 tsp ground ginger – The star spice that gives these bars their signature kick!
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Adds a cozy warmth and lovely depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp nutmeg – A little goes a long way to enhance the aromatic profile.
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the bars rise, creating a light texture.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
For the Sweetness
• ¾ cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Act as a binder, providing richness and a soft texture.
• ½ cup unsalted melted butter – Contributes to the moistness and depth of flavor.
• ½ cup molasses – A must-have for that deep, traditional gingerbread taste!
How to Make Gingerbread Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your gingerbread bars come out perfectly without sticking.
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Whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until well combined. This blend of spices will create that warm, inviting flavor.
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Mix brown sugar and melted butter in another bowl until creamy and smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses until the mixture is glossy and well combined.
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Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix—it’ll keep your bars tender and delicious.
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Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean, signaling that it’s perfectly baked.
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Cool the gingerbread bars in the pan for a few minutes before slicing them into squares. This waiting time ensures they firm up nicely for perfect servings.
Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Bars
Room Temperature: Store gingerbread bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them moist and flavorful.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the bars in the fridge, where they will last up to a week. Remember to wrap them tightly to avoid dryness.
Freezer: You can freeze gingerbread bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Gingerbread Bars Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these delicious Gingerbread Bars for even more cozy flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the same great taste.
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Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and swap melted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cloves to introduce an exciting warmth in every bite.
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Fruity Touch: Fold in a cup of chopped apples or pears for a delicious, moist addition that lightens the flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast and added richness.
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Chocolate Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, decadent treat that’ll make your heart sing.
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Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a rich swirl by combining cream cheese with a bit of sugar and vanilla, adding it to the top before baking.
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Iced Finish: Drizzle some vanilla glaze over the cooled bars for a sweet touch, elevating them to the next level of indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, spices, baking powder, and salt) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. Additionally, the wet mixture (brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and molasses) can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the two mixtures, pour into your greased baking dish, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Gingerbread Bars ready to enjoy with minimal effort and just as delightful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Bars?
As the sweet, spiced scent of gingerbread fills your home, it’s the perfect time to think about what will enhance this delightful treat at the table.
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Classic Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy mug of hot cocoa perfectly complements the warm spices in the gingerbread bars, creating a snug winter pairing. Picture yourself wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping cocoa while indulging in these sweet squares.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious texture that balances the dense bars. A dollop on each piece enhances the experience, offering a delightful contrast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully atop warm gingerbread bars, turning them into a comforting dessert. Each bite is a wonderful combination of hot and cold, deepening the flavors.
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Chai Tea: The exotic spices in chai meld seamlessly with gingerbread, creating a harmonious blend for your taste buds. Enjoy sipping on this warming drink while savoring your bars.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The fruity sweetness of spiced apple cider enhances the ginger notes, making it a perfect companion for autumn gatherings. Serve it warm and watch your guests appreciate the seasonal flavors together.
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Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top of the gingerbread bars offers a delightful contrast in texture while complementing the warmed spices. The nuts add a satisfying bite that elevates your dessert into a complete treat.
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Cream Cheese Glaze: A drizzle of tangy cream cheese glaze adds a touch of decadence and creaminess that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the spiciness of the bars.
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Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup amplifies the sweetness and adds complexity with its earthy flavor. Serve the bars with this syrup for a delightful twist.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall flavors with a pumpkin spice latte! The cozy notes of coffee and pumpkin spices pair beautifully with the aroma of ginger in your bars.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Gingerbread Bars, ensure your butter is melted but not too hot to avoid scrambling the eggs when combined.
- To achieve the best texture, remember to whisk the dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent lumps that could lead to uneven rising.
- For a stronger flavor, consider letting the batter rest for a few minutes before baking to allow the spices to bloom.
- Keep an eye on the baking time towards the end, as ovens can vary; check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking and drying out your bars.
Gingerbread Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ginger for the Gingerbread Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting ground ginger for your Gingerbread Bars, look for a fresh, fragrant spice. If you’re using whole ginger, it should feel firm and have a smooth skin. Avoid any dried, shriveled pieces, as they may not provide the robust flavor that your recipe needs.
How should I store Gingerbread Bars to keep them fresh?
To maintain the wonderful moisture and flavor of your Gingerbread Bars, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent any dryness from the fridge’s air.
Can I freeze Gingerbread Bars? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Gingerbread Bars! Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a delightful warm treat.
What should I do if my Gingerbread Bars come out dry?
If your Gingerbread Bars turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or not measuring the ingredients accurately. To remedy this in future batches, make sure to monitor the baking time closely and test for doneness a few minutes early. If you find them dry after baking, you can serve them with a drizzle of icing or a scoop of ice cream for added moisture!
Are Gingerbread Bars safe for pets?
Very! Gingerbread Bars are safe for pets as they contain common ingredients like flour and eggs. However, avoid giving them to your pets if you’ve added any frosting or toppings, as they may contain sugar, xylitol, or other ingredients that can be harmful to animals. Always check ingredients before sharing anything with your furry friends!
Gingerbread Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until well combined.
- Mix brown sugar and melted butter in another bowl until creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses.
- Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the gingerbread bars in the pan for a few minutes before slicing them into squares.
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