Description

Soft and chewy gingerbread bars packed with warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for the holidays. Easy to make and ideal for gifting or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
½ cup (120ml) molasses
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in molasses and eggs, one at a time, until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, ground cloves, and baking soda.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve as is, or frost if desired.

Notes

For best results, use fresh spices and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container to maintain softness. Optional toppings include cream cheese frosting or white chocolate drizzle.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 180
Sugar: 15
Sodium: 100
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 25
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 2

Keywords: gingerbread bars, holiday dessert, molasses bars, soft chewy bars, festive baking