Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

There’s something magical about the holiday season that brings out the baker in everyone. The smell of gingerbread wafting through the house evokes memories of family gatherings, festive decorations, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. Recently, I decided to make a batch of Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting, and let me tell you, they were an absolute hit! My family couldn’t get enough of the warm spices combined with the creamy frosting. The bars were soft, moist, and the perfect blend of sweetness and spice. They quickly disappeared, leaving behind smiles and requests for more. If you’re looking for a delicious treat to celebrate the season, these gingerbread bars are sure to please!

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Bars:

• 2 1⁄4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 3⁄4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3⁄4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
• 1⁄4 cup unsulphured molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1⁄4 cup sprinkles (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang on the long sides for easy lifting later.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Wet Ingredients

Turn the mixer to low and blend in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring by hand with a spatula until just combined and no streaks of flour remain.

Bake the Bars

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Frost the Bars

Once the gingerbread bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. If desired, sprinkle with festive candy sprinkles.

Chill and Slice

Chill the frosted bars in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-16
• Calories per serving: 405 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm or chilled: These bars can be enjoyed warm right after baking or chilled after frosting.
• With a drink: Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea for a delightful treat.
• Festive presentation: Top with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of your gingerbread bars.
2. Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.
3. Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bars tender.
4. Storage: Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
5. Experiment with flavors: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese substitutes.
• Add-ins: Incorporate raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday gatherings: Perfect for Christmas parties or holiday potlucks.
• Gift-giving: Slice and package in festive boxes for homemade gifts.
• Dessert bar: Create a dessert table with these bars alongside other holiday treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Cut the bars into squares, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Let frozen bars thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
   Yes, light brown sugar can be used, but dark brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
2. What can I substitute for molasses?
   You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Absolutely! They can be baked a day in advance and frosted before serving.
4. Is there a dairy-free option for the frosting?
   Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese and vegan butter for a dairy-free frosting.
5. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
   They are done when the top is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Can I add more spices?
   Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference for a spicier flavor.
7. What is the best way to cut the bars?
   Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean cuts.
8. Can I freeze the frosting?
   Yes, you can freeze cream cheese frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
9. How should I store leftover bars?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
10. What is the best way to decorate these bars?
    You can add nuts, chocolate drizzle, or seasonal sprinkles for decoration.

Conclusion

These Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup. They combine the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the rich, creamy sweetness of cream cheese frosting, creating a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with your family at home, these bars are sure to spread joy and warmth during the festive season. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice of holiday happiness!

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