Nothing says “cozy season” quite like the aroma of freshly baked Spiced Gingerbread Bars wafting through your home. These bars, with their rich, warm spices, are a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. They boast a tender crumb, just the right amount of chewiness, and a slight crispness around the edges that creates a perfect balance. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat on a chilly afternoon, these bars are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spiced Gingerbread Bars
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spiced Gingerbread Bars

I remember the first time I made Spiced Gingerbread Bars. It was a crisp December afternoon, and I had friends coming over for a holiday movie marathon. I was looking for something easy yet festive, and these bars delivered! They were a hit, devoured quickly, and I found myself making them over and over again throughout the season. The best part? They’re not just for the holidays! Enjoy them anytime you crave something sweet and cozy. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep in just 10 minutes, then bake for 15-20 minutes—ready in less than an hour!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm, aromatic treat that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Their golden-brown color and optional festive sprinkles make them fun and inviting.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for holiday gatherings, after-school snacks, or a cozy treat with your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free flour or other dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup butter: Unsalted, melted butter adds richness and moisture to the bars. You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
1/2 cup sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the bars while keeping the texture light.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This adds depth of flavor and moisture, making the bars chewy and delicious. Dark brown sugar works well if you prefer a richer flavor.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making each bite more delightful.
1/3 cup molasses: This ingredient gives the bars their signature deep flavor and a lovely color. Use dark molasses for a stronger taste.
1 egg: A large egg provides structure and richness. Ensure it’s at room temperature for better incorporation.
2 teaspoons baking soda: This acts as a leavening agent, helping the bars rise slightly and keeping them soft.
2 cups flour: All-purpose flour gives the bars their sturdy base. Substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and a sweet-spicy flavor that shines through.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Freshly ground ginger adds an authentic spice kick—don’t be shy with it!
1/4 teaspoon allspice: A little adds another layer of flavor, enhancing the warmth of the bars.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Ground nutmeg offers a subtle, nutty sweetness and an aromatic touch.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

How to Make Spiced Gingerbread Bars

Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This sets the stage for those beautiful Spiced Gingerbread Bars, ensuring they bake evenly.

Prepare the pan: Lightly spray a 9″x13″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. This helps the bars release easily once baked, making your cleanup a breeze.

Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and 1/3 cup molasses. Beat the mixture with a hand mixer or stand mixer until creamy, about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should look smooth and slightly fluffy.

Add egg: Crack 1 large egg into the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. This will add moisture and richness to your bars.

Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon allspice, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This step ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.

Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick, resembling cookie dough—this is perfect!

Spread in pan: Using a silicone spatula or your hands, spread the thick dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Make sure to smooth out the top for even baking.

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be golden brown and the center slightly gooey. Remember, ovens may vary, so check for doneness.

Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely. If you’d like, top with your favorite frosting and perhaps some Christmas sprinkles. Cut into squares and enjoy the holiday magic!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Spiced Gingerbread Bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you want to save them for later, these bars freeze beautifully; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Be aware that freezing may affect their texture slightly, but a quick reheat can bring back their delicious flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Always use room temperature butter and egg for better mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter.
To avoid dense bars, don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added. Mix just until combined.
Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.
Add a topping of cream cheese frosting or simple powdered sugar icing for an extra special treat!
Want to make it your own? Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for a delightful twist.

There you have it—these Spiced Gingerbread Bars are not just a baking project; they are a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. With their beautiful blend of spices and simple prep, you’ll never want to buy store-bought again. Feel free to personalize it to make it your own! I invite you to bake these bars, savor their cozy flavor, and enjoy the compliments that will come your way!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute 2 cups of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it has xanthan gum for the best texture.

How should I store leftover bars?

Store your Spiced Gingerbread Bars at room temperature in an airtight container, and they will last for up to 5 days. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for about a week.

What frosting pairs well with gingerbread?

A simple cream cheese frosting or even a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works beautifully. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive look!

Can I add additional spices or ingredients?

Certainly! You can play around with the spices; adding a pinch of clove or cardamom would enhance the flavor. Also, try stirring in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an added crunch!