Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting elevate a classic holiday treat into a delectable dessert, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
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.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!
Notes
For variations, consider adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or mixing other spices. Ensure proper cooling before frosting to avoid melting.