There’s something timeless about the combination of spices and sweetness that gingerbread brings to the table. Gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting elevate this classic holiday treat into a delectable dessert that delights your taste buds and warms your heart. Perfect for gatherings, these bars feature a soft, moist base infused with rich flavors, topped with a creamy frosting that creates a perfect balance. Whether it’s a family get-together, a cozy evening at home, or a festive holiday celebration, these gingerbread bars will surely be a hit, sparking memories and creating new traditions along the way.
Why We Love This Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
One of the best things about gingerbread bars is their versatility. They can be enjoyed throughout the colder months, making a warm, inviting treat as the temperatures drop. The gorgeous marbling of spices combined with the softness of the bars creates a comforting texture. Adding the cream cheese frosting takes these bars to the next level with its smoothness and slight tanginess, which complements the warm spices perfectly.
The recipe is simple and straightforward, allowing even beginner bakers to create a delightful dessert without much fuss. Moreover, these bars keep well, making them an excellent choice for those who want to bake ahead for upcoming gatherings or events. With minimal effort, you can indulge in these wonderful flavors and share them with friends and family, ensuring your place as the family baker extraordinaire.
Ingredients about Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
For your baking triumph, here’s what you need to gather:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk (as needed for consistency)
How to Make Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Directions
Creating gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting is not only enjoyable but also straightforward. You’ll want to start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven is warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it to prepare for that delicious batter you’re about to mix.
In a medium bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Give these dry ingredients a good whisk until well blended, and then set them aside for now.
Next, take a large bowl and add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter along with 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these together until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. This mixing phase is crucial as it integrates the sugar into the butter, resulting in a beautifully textured batter.
Now, it’s time to add some rich flavors to the mix. Pour in 1/2 cup of molasses, crack in 2 large eggs, and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend all these ingredients until smooth. You want everything to meld perfectly together, creating the perfect foundation for your gingerbread bars.
Once your wet ingredients are ready, it’s time to gently incorporate your dry mixture. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light for fluffy bars. After your mixture is ready, spread it evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean when the bars are done. Once baked to perfection, allow them to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Now for the crown jewel of this recipe – the cream cheese frosting. In a separate bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter. Once smooth and creamy, gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar along with another 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Once your gingerbread bars are completely cool, it’s time to frost them generously with your luscious cream cheese mixture using an offset spatula or a knife. Cut the bars into squares, and they’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting is a delightful experience in itself. You can offer them warm straight from the oven or at room temperature, depending on your preference. For a charming presentation, place the cut bars on a decorative platter, or serve them wrapped in festive parchment paper at holiday gatherings.
Pair these bars with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or coffee for an added touch of comfort. They also make excellent dessert options for potlucks, holiday parties, or family gatherings, allowing everyone to savor the rich flavors and delightful textures together.
Additionally, consider garnishing your frosted bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar, some candied ginger pieces, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a visually appealing touch. Not only will the decorations enhance the look, but they will also add layers of flavor to enjoy.
Expert Tips: Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality spices and fresh eggs for the best flavor. The key to great gingerbread is in the quality of the spices you use.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the bars to become dense rather than fluffy. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Ensure Proper Cooling: Let the bars cool completely before frosting. If they are still warm, the frosting may melt and slide off.
- Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little milk to reach your desired consistency. A smooth, spreadable frosting is key.
- Mix Spice Ratios: Feel free to experiment with different spice ratios. If you love a strong cinnamon flavor, adjust accordingly!
- Make Ahead: These bars can be baked and frosted a day in advance, making them perfect for preparing for parties or gatherings.
How to Store Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To keep your gingerbread bars fresh, you will want to store them properly. Place any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature if they will be consumed within a day or two. If you need to keep them longer, move them to the refrigerator; the cream cheese frosting will keep them safe and delicious.
When refrigerating, cover the bars with plastic wrap or store in a container with a tight-fitting lid. For the freshest taste, try to consume the bars within 5-7 days. If you have extra bars that you’d like to save for later, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months – simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Variation of Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
While the classic recipe is always a hit, feel free to get creative with variations! Here are some ideas to consider:
- Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for added texture and taste.
- Dried Fruits: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy element that complements the spices.
- Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting the bars, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top for a decadent twist.
- Spice Variation: Change the spices up to suit your palate – think cardamom or allspice to create your signature gingerbread flavor.
- Citrus Zest: A bit of orange or lemon zest in the frosting or batter can brighten the overall flavor, adding a fresh pop to your gingerbread bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes gingerbread bars different from traditional gingerbread cookies?
Gingerbread bars are typically moister and denser than traditional gingerbread cookies, which are crisp and chewy. The bars offer a cake-like texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting, making them more suitable for a dessert bar situation.
Can I use a different frosting for my gingerbread bars?
Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is a delightful choice, you can experiment with different types like a simple buttercream or even a chocolate ganache for a delicious variation. Just keep in mind that flavors should complement the warm spices of the gingerbread.
How can I make these gingerbread bars gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of these bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder and baking soda are also gluten-free.
Can I cut the sugars in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe slightly. Keep in mind that doing so may alter the texture and sweetness of the final product. Experiment with reducing sugar gradually to find a balance that still maintains the flavor you love.
Can I add frosting ahead of time?
You can frost the gingerbread bars a day ahead if you’re serving them for a gathering. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to soften the frosting slightly.
Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Bars
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Milk as needed Milk (as needed for consistency) Add to achieve desired frosting consistency.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and blend until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the dry mixture until just combined, then spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before topping with frosting.
Frosting
- In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and soft butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, adjusting with milk as needed for desired consistency.
- Frost the cooled gingerbread bars generously and cut into squares to serve.
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