Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of gingerbread wafting through your home, evoking memories of cozy holiday gatherings and warm moments shared with loved ones. These delightful Gingerbread Cookie Bars capture all of that nostalgic goodness in a simple, easy-to-share treat. Rich with spices and a hint of sweetness, these bars are perfect for any festive occasion or simply as a warm afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup icing sugar (for drizzling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the parchment hangs over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this aromatic blend aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and absolutely dreamy.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, stirring until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want these bars to be tender and inviting!
- Spread the thick, spicy batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Don’t be afraid to use a spatula to smooth the top!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—each minute brings the delightful scent of ginger and spices closer to perfection.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Take a moment to enjoy that wonderful gingerbread aroma!
- When completely cool, drizzle icing sugar over the bars for a sweet finishing touch, then slice them into squares for serving.
Notes or Tips
For a little twist, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking for an extra layer of flavor. If you like a stronger spice profile, feel free to bump up the ground cinnamon or ginger. These bars also freeze wonderfully—just wrap them well to enjoy later!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the importance of proper mixing techniques. Creaming the butter and sugars until fluffy is crucial for achieving the right texture in your bars. Remember to whisk dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure a uniform spice distribution throughout the dough!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. Consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat for a better balance.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a hug in a pan, perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all to yourself. With their rich spices and mouthwatering sweetness, they capture the essence of the holiday season beautifully. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these delightful bars—you won’t regret it!