Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen during the holidays has a way of transforming any ordinary day into a cherished memory. These delightful Chewy Gingerbread Bars capture that festive spirit, offering all the beloved flavors of classic gingerbread cookies but with a thicker, chewier twist. Not only are they quick to prepare, taking just 10-12 minutes to bake, but they’re also a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly brings joy to any holiday gathering. Whether you choose to top them with a dollop of cream cheese frosting or enjoy them as they are, these bars are the perfect blend of comfort and celebration. Curious about how to make these holiday treats a staple in your own home? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Bars So Irresistible? Quick Preparation: These Chewy Gingerbread Bars whip up in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy holiday schedules. Warm, Spicy Flavors: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves fills your kitchen with irresistible holiday aromas. Chewy Texture: Unlike traditional cookies, their thick and chewy consistency makes them a delightful treat everyone will love. Versatile Topping Options: Whether you opt for the creamy cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze, each bite is an indulgence. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These bars are ideal for gatherings, serving as a delectable centerpiece that everyone will rave about at your next holiday party. For even more festive ideas, don’t forget to check out how to double the recipe. Chewy Gingerbread Bars Ingredients For the Bars Butter (3/4 C) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Sugar (1 C) – Provides sweetness and structure; can be replaced with brown sugar for extra depth in flavor. Molasses (1/4 C) – Imparts warmth and traditional gingerbread flavor; honey can work in a pinch, albeit with a different taste. Egg (1) – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative. Flour (2 C) – Forms the structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for a gluten-free version. Baking Soda (2 t) – A leavening agent to help the bars rise; no substitute needed. Cinnamon (1 t), Ginger (1/2 t), Cloves (1/2 t), Salt (1/2 t) – A spice blend for classic gingerbread flavor; adjust spices to taste, adding nutmeg for extra warmth. For the Cream Cheese Frosting Cream Cheese (4 oz) – Adds richness and tanginess; consider non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan option. Butter (2 T) – Provides creaminess; substitute with a non-dairy butter alternative. Powdered Sugar (2 C) – Sweetens the frosting; use less for a lighter sweetness. Milk (1 T) – Helps achieve the desired consistency; any milk alternative can be used if needed. Vanilla (1/2 t) – Enhances flavor; optional but recommended for added depth. Dash Salt – Balances sweetness. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Bars Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, melt ¾ cup of butter and let it cool slightly. Add 1 cup of sugar and ¼ cup of molasses to the bowl, then beat the mixture until smooth and well combined. You’ll know it’s ready when you achieve a glossy texture, which should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or whisk. Step 2: Add the Egg Crack one egg into the mixture and blend it until fully incorporated. This step is crucial, as the egg acts as a binder for the Chewy Gingerbread Bars, adding moisture to the batter. Make sure to mix for about another minute until everything comes together seamlessly, creating a creamy batter. Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, ½ teaspoon of cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for even baking. The mixture will create a fragrant spice blend that captures the essence of gingerbread. Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; aim to combine until you no longer see dry flour. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky, creating the perfect consistency for your Chewy Gingerbread Bars. Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan Take a 9×9-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Use your fingers or a spatula to press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring that it spreads out uniformly. This step is key to achieving even baking and a delightful chewy texture throughout the bars. Step 6: Bake the Bars Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and start checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. When the toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the Chewy Gingerbread Bars are ready to come out of the oven. Step 7: Cool the Bars Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the bars to firm up and become even chewier as they set, which may take about 30 minutes to an hour. Please be patient; they will still cook slightly while cooling. Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting While the bars cool, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, ½ teaspoon of vanilla, and a dash of salt. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this should take around 3-5 minutes for a delightful consistency. Step 9: Frost the Bars Once the Chewy Gingerbread Bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Aim for an even layer, allowing the frosting to complement the rich flavors of the bars. The creamy frosting adds a sweet contrast, making each bite irresistible. Step 10: Chill and Serve For the best results, refrigerate the frosted bars for at least one hour before cutting them into squares. This final chilling helps firm up the frosting and makes for neater slices. Once set, serve your Chewy Gingerbread Bars at gatherings or enjoy them cozy by the fire—perfect for sharing the holiday spirit! What to Serve with Chewy Gingerbread Bars Pair your festive treats with delightful sides that will elevate your holiday gathering to new heights. Hot Cocoa: This creamy, chocolatey drink perfectly complements the spiced flavors of the bars and creates a cozy holiday atmosphere. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, fragrant cider with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the gingerbread flavors beautifully. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast to the chewiness of the bars, making every bite indulgent. Christmas Sugar Cookies: Pairing with these sweet treats adds variety and a playful touch to your dessert table. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel on top for an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing each chew of your gingerbread delight. Cheese Board: A selection of soft cheeses brings a savory balance to the sweetness, making for a well-rounded dessert experience. If you’re sipping cocoa or enjoying a festive gathering, don’t forget to share your chewy gingerbread bars; they’re sure to spark joy and delicious memories! Storage Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Bars Fridge: Keep leftover Chewy Gingerbread Bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This helps preserve their softness and flavor, making them a convenient treat to enjoy throughout the week. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy the holiday flavors anytime! Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel. Frosting Storage: If you have extra cream cheese frosting, store it separately in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Re-whip to revive its creamy texture before using! Expert Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Bars Butter Temperature: Start with slightly cooled melted butter. If it’s too hot, it could cook the egg, leading to an uneven texture. Baking Time Caution: Avoid overbaking! Check for doneness at 15 minutes; remove them once a toothpick comes out clean to ensure chewy bars. Mixing Methods: Use a spatula for the final mixing to prevent overmixing. A gentle approach keeps your Chewy Gingerbread Bars soft and delicious. Frosting Flexibility: For less sweetness, adjust the powdered sugar in the cream cheese frosting. You can splash in extra milk for a lighter cream. Resting Period: Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and maintains a beautiful layer. Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. These flavors develop over time, making each bite even better! Make Ahead Options These Chewy Gingerbread Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious holiday treats with less hassle! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients as directed and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, the frosted bars can be made up to 3 days ahead—after frosting, simply cover tightly and refrigerate. This helps maintain their soft, chewy texture and delicious flavor! When you’re ready to serve, cut the bars into squares directly from the fridge for easy serving, and you’ll have fresh-tasting, festive delights to share with family and friends! Chewy Gingerbread Bars: Delicious Variations Feel free to get creative with these Chewy Gingerbread Bars; your imagination can turn them into something utterly unique and satisfying! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of regular flour for a gluten-free delight. This way, everyone can join in the festive fun! Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and cream cheese with coconut oil and non-dairy cream cheese for a dairy-free option. These swaps still yield a delightful bar that everyone can enjoy. Extra Spicy: Amp up the holiday flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of ginger or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. It adds an extra layer of cozy magic! Chocolate Lovers: Mix in a cup of chocolate chips for a rich twist that balances perfectly with the spice of gingerbread. Who can resist chocolate, after all? Enhanced Frosting: Swirl in some orange zest into your cream cheese frosting for a refreshing burst of flavor. It brightens up the sweetness in the most delightful way. Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—into the batter for added texture. You’ll love the crunch alongside the chewy bars. Delightful Glaze: For a lighter topping, drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the bars instead of frosting. It offers just the right amount of sweetness without the heft. Spicy Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling a spiced caramel sauce atop the bars can give them a sensational twist that makes for a show-stopping dessert. It’s a flavor combo that everyone will rave about! By mixing and matching these ideas, you’ll create Chewy Gingerbread Bars that reflect your taste and keep your holiday celebrations vibrant. And if you’re looking for a way to make them extra special, you might check out how to double the recipe to share with loved ones! Chewy Gingerbread Bars Recipe FAQs What kind of molasses should I use? For the best flavor in your Chewy Gingerbread Bars, I recommend using unsulfured molasses, as it has a smoother taste and is less bitter than sulfured types. This ingredient is essential for that classic gingerbread flavor! While honey can be a substitute in a pinch, the taste will be different, so stick to molasses when possible. How do I store leftover gingerbread bars? Absolutely! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their delightful chewiness. If you’re planning to enjoy them later, consider freezing them for up to 3 months to lock in that scrumptious flavor! Can I freeze Chewy Gingerbread Bars? Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap your cooled Chewy Gingerbread Bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked goodness. What should I do if my gingerbread bars are too dry? If your bars come out dry, don’t fret! Keep an eye on the baking time next time; overbaking can lead to dryness. Start checking for doneness at 15 minutes using a toothpick; remove them once it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you do end up with dry bars, serve with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm frosting for added moisture and flavor. Is there a vegan version of these bars? Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of Chewy Gingerbread Bars! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for about 5 minutes) and use coconut oil in place of the butter and a non-dairy cream cheese for the frosting. These adjustments will maintain all the warmth and flavor while accommodating a vegan diet! Can I adjust the spices? Very! Spice it up to your taste buds’ delight! The spice blend in the bars can be tweaked according to your preference. If you’d like a bit more warmth, a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor. Alternatively, if you’re not a ginger fan, reducing the ginger while boosting the cinnamon can offer a sweeter taste without overpowering. Enjoy experimenting! Chewy Gingerbread Bars: A Cozy Holiday Treat to Savor Chewy Gingerbread Bars are thick, flavorful, and perfect for the holidays, offering a delightful twist on classic gingerbread cookies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 16 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bars3/4 C Butter Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.1 C Sugar Provides sweetness and structure; can be replaced with brown sugar for extra depth in flavor.1/4 C Molasses Imparts warmth and traditional gingerbread flavor; honey can work in a pinch, albeit with a different taste.1 large Egg Acts as a binder and adds moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.2 C Flour Forms the structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for a gluten-free version.2 t Baking Soda A leavening agent to help the bars rise; no substitute needed.1 t Cinnamon A spice blend for classic gingerbread flavor.1/2 t Ginger A spice blend for classic gingerbread flavor.1/2 t Cloves A spice blend for classic gingerbread flavor.1/2 t Salt A spice blend for classic gingerbread flavor.For the Cream Cheese Frosting4 oz Cream Cheese Adds richness and tanginess; consider non-dairy cream cheese for a vegan option.2 T Butter Provides creaminess; substitute with a non-dairy butter alternative.2 C Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting; use less for a lighter sweetness.1 T Milk Helps achieve the desired consistency; any milk alternative can be used if needed.1/2 t Vanilla Enhances flavor; optional but recommended for added depth.Dash Salt Balances sweetness. Equipment Mixing BowlBaking PanSpatulawhiskOven Method DirectionsIn a large mixing bowl, melt ¾ cup of butter and let it cool slightly. Add 1 cup of sugar and ¼ cup of molasses to the bowl, then beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.Crack one egg into the mixture and blend it until fully incorporated. Mix for about another minute until everything comes together seamlessly.In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, ½ teaspoon of cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt.Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together. Aim to combine until you no longer see dry flour.Take a 9x9-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for 15-20 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark.Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes to an hour.While the bars cool, make the cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 ounces of cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, ½ teaspoon of vanilla, and a dash of salt.Once the Chewy Gingerbread Bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top.For the best results, refrigerate the frosted bars for at least one hour before cutting them into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesStore in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. These flavors develop over time, making each bite even better!. For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
