Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly spiced gingerbread bar, topped with a luxuriously creamy cream cheese frosting that will transport you straight to holiday heaven! These irresistible bars are more than just a dessert - they're a warm, comforting embrace of seasonal flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply craving a delectable treat, these Cream Cheese Frosted Gingerbread Bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add molasses to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Once the gingerbread bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into 12 equal bars and serve. Optional: sprinkle with additional ground cinnamon or ginger for garnish.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep the bars tender and soft.
- Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs when the bars are perfectly baked.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese topping from melting.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for advance preparation.
- Garnish Option: For an extra touch, sprinkle some ground cinnamon or crushed candied ginger on top of the frosting for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
