Gingerbread Cookie Bars

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by Sarah Conley

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Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the holiday treat that dreams are made of, and if you can smell the warm spices wafting through your kitchen right now, then you’re already halfway to flavor town! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy bar infused with the sweet warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg—all while your taste buds do a happy dance. These bars are not just a dessert; they’re an invitation to cozy up by the fireplace, sip hot cocoa, and reminisce about simpler times filled with laughter and love.

Gingerbread Cookie Bars
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Now, let me take you back to my childhood—when my grandma would whip up her famous gingerbread cookies every December. The whole house would transform into a winter wonderland of delicious aromas, and I’d be right there, attempting to sneak bites of dough while pretending to help. Fast forward to today, and I’ve turned that nostalgia into these delightful Gingerbread Cookie Bars—perfect for family gatherings or simply indulging yourself on a chilly evening. Trust me; one bite will have you dreaming of holiday cheer!

Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Cookie Bars

  • This incredible Gingerbread Cookie Bars transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
  • Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
  • Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
  • Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

– Easy to whip up in just under an hour, making them ideal for last-minute holiday parties or cozy nights in.

Gingerbread Cookie Bars ingredients

– Packed with warm spices that create a heavenly aroma in your kitchen and deliver a flavor experience like no other.

– Visually stunning with their golden-brown crust topped with delectable frosting—these bars are as beautiful as they are tasty.

– Versatile enough to be enjoyed plain, frosted, or even topped with ice cream for a festive twist on dessert.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Gingerbread Cookie Bars:

  • All-Purpose Flour: A must-have base for our bars; it gives structure without being too heavy.
  • Ground Ginger: The star spice here! Freshly ground ginger has a robust flavor that really shines through.
  • Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth; it pairs beautifully with the ginger.
  • Nutmeg: Just a pinch will add that extra layer of holiday magic—trust me!
  • Baking Soda: Helps our bars rise nice and fluffy while keeping them soft.
  • Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture; light brown is best for that rich molasses flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: For richness; make sure it’s softened so it blends perfectly into the batter.
  • Eggs: Two large eggs help bind everything together—you can’t have cookie bars without them!
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash adds aromatic sweetness that takes these bars over the top.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Gingerbread Cookie Bars:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan (9×13 inch works wonders) with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside while we get gooey.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins! Add in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine It All Together

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overdo it! You want those gingerbread flavors to come together harmoniously.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake for about **20-25 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on it because nobody wants burnt edges!

Step 6: Cool & Frost

Allow your bars to cool completely before frosting if desired. A simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk drizzled on top adds the finishing touch!

Transfer to plates and serve warm or at room temperature—the choice is yours! Enjoy this delightful treat at family gatherings or simply as an afternoon pick-me-up paired with coffee.

These Gingerbread Cookie Bars will not only fill your kitchen with amazing scents but also fill your heart with joy. So preheat that oven already—it’s time for some scrumptious baking!

Gingerbread Cookie Bars

You Must Know About Gingerbread Cookie Bars

  • This showstopping Gingerbread Cookie Bars delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
  • The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
  • Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
  • Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve perfect Gingerbread Cookie Bars, start by preheating your oven while you mix the dry ingredients. Then blend in the wet ingredients before pouring the batter into a prepared pan. Bake until golden brown and let them cool before slicing.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Gingerbread Cookie Bars by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a splash of vanilla extract. You can also swap molasses for honey or maple syrup for a unique twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to restore their gooey goodness without drying them out.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Gingerbread Cookie Bars

  • This professional-quality Gingerbread Cookie Bars relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
  • Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
  • The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
  • Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

My friend once declared these Gingerbread Cookie Bars as “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite a compliment considering we both live in a world filled with avocado toast!

Gingerbread Cookie Bars

FAQs

Gingerbread cookie bars are a delightful twist on traditional gingerbread cookies. These bars combine the rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses into a soft and chewy treat. Unlike regular cookies, which require rolling and cutting, gingerbread cookie bars are baked in a single pan and then cut into squares. This simple method makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. People love their warm spices and the comforting aroma they bring to any kitchen.

To keep your gingerbread cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen gingerbread cookie bars can last up to three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Absolutely! One of the best things about gingerbread cookie bars is their versatility. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance the flavor and texture. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate or icing on top after baking. You can also adjust the spices according to your preference; adding nutmeg or cloves can give an extra layer of warmth to these delightful treats.

Yes, gingerbread cookie bars are an excellent choice for parties! Their easy-to-cut shape makes serving hassle-free, allowing guests to enjoy them without the mess of traditional cookies. They pair wonderfully with holiday beverages like hot cocoa or spiced cider. Plus, their festive flavor profile is sure to please a crowd, making them a favorite during the holiday season or any celebration.

Conclusion

In summary, gingerbread cookie bars offer a deliciously easy way to enjoy classic gingerbread flavors without the fuss of traditional cookies. With their soft texture and warm spices, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home. Remember to store them properly for maximum freshness and feel free to customize your recipe with fun additions. So next time you’re craving something sweet, try making gingerbread cookie bars for a delightful treat that everyone will love!

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Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gingerbread Cookie Bars


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  • Author: Sarah Conley
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a soft, chewy treat. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights at home, these bars fill your kitchen with warm aromas and are easy to whip up. Top them with a simple icing for an extra touch of sweetness or enjoy them plain. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they are sure to delight friends and family during the holiday season.


Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla.
  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
  5. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Allow to cool completely before frosting if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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