Nothing says cozy comfort quite like a delightful gingerbread treat, and this Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe captures all the nostalgic flavors in one easy-to-make dish. These bars perfectly balance warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves combined with the rich molasses sweetness and a tender, chewy texture. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family snack, or just craving that classic gingerbread hug in dessert form, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe plays a starring role, combining to create a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. The blend of simple pantry staples ensures you have everything on hand to whip up these bars whenever the craving strikes.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¼ cups – forms the sturdy base and provides structure to the bars.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon – essential for that subtle lift that keeps the bars soft and tender.
- Ground Ginger: 1 ½ teaspoons – packs the signature spicy warmth that defines gingerbread.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – introduces a sweet and woody flavor that deepens the spice profile.
- Ground Cloves: ½ teaspoon – enhances complexity with a slightly sharp, aromatic note.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – balances the sweetness and sharpens all the spices.
- Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks), softened – delivers rich, chewy indulgence to every bite.
- Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed – adds moisture and a lovely caramel undertone.
- Egg: 1 large – binds everything together seamlessly.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – lifts all the flavors, making them shine beautifully.
- Molasses: ½ cup – the soul of gingerbread, lending deep color and signature sweetness.
How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then lightly grease the paper so the bars release effortlessly once baked. This small prep step ensures a smooth finish every time.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This aromatic spice combination is what gives these bars their irresistible gingerbread character, so mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar, Then Add Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg, pure vanilla extract, and molasses. These wet ingredients bring moisture, depth, and richness that make each bar chewy and packed with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, stirring just until fully combined. The dough will be thick and fragrant from the spices and molasses. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture soft and tender.
Step 5: Press Dough into Pan
Transfer the dough to your prepared pan and use a spatula or your hands to press it evenly across the surface. Smoothing the top helps the bars bake uniformly and makes slicing into neat portions a breeze.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the edges are set and the center is no longer jiggly. You want the bars to hold their shape but remain soft enough to enjoy that classic chewy texture.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. For an extra touch, drizzle with a simple glaze or dust with powdered sugar to brighten their appearance and add a sweet finishing note.
How to Serve Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe by adding subtle garnishes. A delicate drizzle of vanilla or cream cheese glaze, a light sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a few chopped nuts provide eye-catching contrast and extra layers of flavor.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with warm beverages like mulled cider, hot chocolate, or a spiced chai latte, which complement the spices beautifully. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the spice with creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your gingerbread bars on a festive platter with fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of rosemary for an inviting holiday centerpiece. You can even serve them as part of a dessert buffet or gift them wrapped in rustic parchment with twine for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay moist and flavorful for up to five days, making them perfect for meal prep or grab-and-go treats.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars either whole or cut into individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They keep beautifully frozen for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
For warm, freshly baked vibes, gently reheat the bars in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds. This revives their soft, chewy texture and makes the spices even more fragrant and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use alternative sweeteners instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor crucial to the gingerbread taste, but you can experiment with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a twist. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have molasses on hand?
Molasses is key to the richness and deep color of authentic gingerbread bars. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with an equal amount of dark corn syrup or a mix of honey and a splash of blackstrap molasses for a similar effect.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain the chewy texture. Be sure to check your baking soda and spices are gluten-free too.
Are the spices adjustable?
Absolutely. If you love a stronger ginger kick, increase the ground ginger slightly. Alternatively, reduce the cloves for a milder spice, or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. The beauty of this Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe is in its versatility.
How thick should the bars be before baking?
Press the dough evenly so it’s about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This thickness allows the bars to bake through perfectly while maintaining a soft, chewy center without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe is a simple yet deeply satisfying way to bring warmth and spice into your kitchen year-round. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or indulging on a quiet afternoon, these bars deliver cozy comfort with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and make this enchanting gingerbread favorite your own!
