Gingerbread Bars

If you’re looking to warm up your holidays with a sweet seasonal treat, these Gingerbread Bars are exactly what you need. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and molasses, these bars deliver a chewy texture and rich, cozy flavors that bring festive joy to every bite. They’re simple to make, share easily, and fill your home with that classic holiday aroma you’ve been craving. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet night in, Gingerbread Bars are the ultimate treat to spice up your holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced: The blend of warming spices hits every note without overpowering the palate.
• Chewy Texture: Delightfully moist and tender bars that stay soft even days after baking.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have, making it super accessible.
• Festive Aroma: Fills your home with the comforting scents of the holidays while baking.
• Easy to Serve: Perfectly portioned bars are great for sharing or gifting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients build the heart of your Gingerbread Bars, each contributing to flavor, texture, or that warm, inviting color you expect from a holiday favorite.

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bars, providing structure without heaviness.
• Baking Soda: Helps the bars rise slightly for a soft, chewy bite.
• Ground Ginger & Cinnamon: Spices that bring authentic gingerbread warmth and depth.
• Molasses: Adds richness, moisture, and that signature dark color.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances sweetness while maintaining a slight chewiness.
• Butter: Brings tenderness and richness to each bar.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and helps with the chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle complexity to balance the spices.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.

Variations for Gingerbread Bars

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Gingerbread Bars are incredibly versatile and easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences or flavor ideas.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and warmth.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe, tasty treat.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and a flaxseed egg for binding.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Top with melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.
• Orange Zest: Mix in some fresh orange zest to brighten and balance the spiciness.

How to Make Gingerbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan

Gather all your ingredients and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it generously to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar until light and fluffy. This helps create the chewy texture we love in Gingerbread Bars.

Step 4: Add Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla

Blend in the molasses, followed by the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all the rich flavors evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep your bars tender and soft.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top with a spatula, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the pan cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making Gingerbread Bars

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will make a notable difference in the depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull the bars out once the edges firm up but the center is still slightly soft for perfect chewiness.
• Chill the Batter: For richer flavor, let the batter rest for 15 minutes before baking.
• Line Your Pan: Parchment paper makes cleanup easy and prevents any sticking issues.
• Test Early: Start checking your bars around 25 minutes to avoid drying them out.

How to Serve Gingerbread Bars

Garnishes

Top your Gingerbread Bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm caramel, or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance their festive charm.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a steaming cup of spiced tea, frothy latte, or a cozy mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the Gingerbread Bars into bite-sized squares for holiday parties or stack them with festive picks for an attractive dessert platter everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Gingerbread Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Reheating

Warm bars slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven to revive that fresh-baked softness and smell.

FAQs

Can I use honey instead of molasses in Gingerbread Bars?

Honey can be used as a substitute but will alter the flavor and color slightly; molasses provides the classic deep, rich taste essential to gingerbread.

How do I make Gingerbread Bars more gluten-free friendly?

Replace all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking blend; adding a bit of xanthan gum can help mimic the chewiness.

Are Gingerbread Bars suitable for freezing?

Yes! They freeze very well. Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, and they’re perfect for enjoying at your convenience.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?

Absolutely, nuts like pecans or walnuts and dried fruits such as cranberries add extra texture and festive flavor to the bars.

How long will Gingerbread Bars stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they remain fresh and chewy for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread Bars are a cozy holiday classic that should grace every festive dessert table. Their warm spices and chewy texture bring the perfect bite of comfort and tradition, making every moment sweeter. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these cheerful bars that truly capture the spirit of the season!

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