Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting embody the warmth and comfort of the holiday season. These delightful treats combine the festive spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a luscious cream cheese frosting that enhances their flavor profile. These bars not only fill your home with a delightful aroma as they bake but also create a perfect balance of spiciness and sweetness that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want a cozy dessert, these gingerbread bars are the ideal choice.
Why We Love This Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
There’s something undeniably special about the combination of gingerbread and cream cheese frosting. The spices used in the bar batter not only provide a warm and inviting flavor but also hold a nostalgic quality for many. The rich tones of molasses mingle beautifully with the warmth of ground ginger, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates these bars to a whole new level. This frosting brings a creamy and tangy contrast that perfectly complements the sweetness of the gingerbread. Additionally, the bars are easy to make, suitable for bakers of all levels, and perfect for sharing. They can be served as a festive dessert at gatherings, as a delightful treat for loved ones, or even enjoyed quietly at home with a cup of tea or coffee. Once you try this recipe, you will quickly understand why these bars are beloved by so many.
Ingredients for Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To create these delicious gingerbread bars, you will need the following ingredients:
- 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 for consistency)
How to Make Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Making Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward process that will fill your kitchen with warm, enticing aromas. Follow these simple steps to create your delicious bars:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your bars don’t stick during baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use. This blend of spices is essential for achieving that characteristic gingerbread flavor.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, take your softened unsalted butter and brown sugar. Beat these ingredients together until they are creamy and well combined. Next, incorporate the molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be sure to mix gently until everything is just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars, so aim for a smooth batter.
- Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. To check the doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the bars are ready. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the bars are cooling, you can make your cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and remaining unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Frost the Bars: Once the gingerbread bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or an offset knife for a smooth finish. When the frosting is applied, cut the bars into squares or rectangles for easy serving.
- Enjoy: Now that your gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting are ready, serve them up for everyone to enjoy. These treats are perfect for any occasion but truly shine during the festive season.
How to Serve Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Once your gingerbread bars are frosted and cut into squares, it’s time to think about serving! Here are a few ideas to elevate your presentation and make these treats even more enjoyable:
- Classic Plate Presentation: Arrange the bars neatly on a decorative plate. Dust them with a little extra powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible glitter for a festive look.
- Pair with Beverages: These bars go wonderfully with hot beverages. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa to complement their flavors. The spices in the gingerbread echo the warmth of these drinks, creating a delightful experience.
- Garnish with Festive Elements: Consider adding some garnishes like candied ginger pieces or crushed walnuts on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor. Fresh mint leaves or seasonal berries can also provide a vibrant color contrast.
- Ultimate Dessert Platter: For gatherings, place the bars on a dessert platter filled with other goodies such as cookies, brownies, or fruit tarts. This not only diversifies your dessert selection but also makes for an inviting spread.
Expert Tips: Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your gingerbread bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measuring is key – especially when it comes to flour. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense bars.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy frosting without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your bars tough, so it’s best to stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the bars to cool completely before applying the frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
- Experiment with Spices: While the traditional spices are wonderful, feel free to experiment. Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
How to Store Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Once you’ve made your gingerbread bars, you’ll want to know the best ways to store them so they remain delicious for as long as possible. Follow these simple storage instructions:
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to enjoy the bars within a few days, you can store them at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate for Longer Shelf Life: For longer storage, place the bars in the refrigerator. Make sure they are covered to prevent drying out. They can last about a week in the refrigerator.
- Freezing for Future Enjoyment: If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variation of Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
One of the best aspects of baking is the opportunity to get creative with variations. Here are some ideas to change up your Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries into the batter for added texture and flavor. These ingredients pair beautifully with the spices.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend if you’re looking for a gluten-free version. This allows everyone to enjoy the delights of gingerbread bars without dietary restrictions.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: For a sweet twist, add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter before baking. The rich chocolate complements the flavors of the gingerbread wonderfully.
- Seasonal Spices: Experiment with seasonal spices like cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for a unique flavor profile. This can add a fun twist to your traditional gingerbread experience.
- Frosting Alternatives: While cream cheese frosting is delightful, consider alternatives like whipped cream or a simple vanilla glaze for a lighter finish. You could even try a citrus frosting using orange or lemon zest for a refreshing contrast.
FAQ about Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your gingerbread bar experience:
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the gingerbread bars a day in advance. Store them at room temperature, and frost them just before serving for the best texture.
Why are my gingerbread bars dense? Dense gingerbread bars could be a result of overmixing the batter. Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients to avoid activating the gluten too much.
Can I make these bars without eggs? Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for an egg-free version. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water to replace one egg.
How do I know when my gingerbread bars are done baking? A toothpick inserted in the center of the bars should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, the bars need more time to bake.
Can I frost these bars with something other than cream cheese frosting? Definitely! You can use a simple buttercream frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for a different finish.
Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Bars
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and leveled for accuracy
- 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 At room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 2 large eggs Room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened At room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened At room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- as needed tablespoons milk For 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, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the molasses, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Baking
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Add milk as needed for consistency.
Finishing Touches
- Once the bars are cool, frost evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
- Cut into squares or rectangles for serving.
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