Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe Recipe

Classic gingerbread spice flavor without the fuss of rolling and cutting cookies
One‑bowl preparation makes this recipe easy and approachable
Soft, chewy texture that’s perfect for sharing or gifting
Cream cheese frosting adds rich, creamy balance
Great for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy desserts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Gingerbread Cookie Bars:
2½ cups all‑purpose flour
1½ teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon baking soda
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
⅓ cup unsulphured molasses
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13‑inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and baking soda.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add molasses, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture; beat until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for about 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, then vanilla and a pinch of salt; whip until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, slice into squares, and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Yield: 16 bars
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Bake time: ~25 minutes
Cooling time: ~20–30 minutes before frosting

Variations

Add a sprinkle of crushed gingersnaps or cinnamon on top of the frosting for extra texture and flavor
Swap half the all‑purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor
Skip the frosting and dust with powdered sugar for a simpler treat
Stir in chopped nuts or white chocolate chips into the batter before baking

Storage/Reheating

Store frosted bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Unfrosted bars can be wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before frosting.
Reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm treat.

FAQs

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out mostly clean with no wet batter, they’re done.

Can I make this recipe gluten‑free?

Yes — substitute a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend for the all‑purpose flour.

Can I skip the frosting?

Absolutely — the bars are delicious on their own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I make the bars ahead of time?

Yes — make them a day or two ahead, and store them covered in the fridge.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze these bars?

Unfrosted bars freeze well for up to 3 months; thaw before frosting.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes — fold in your favorite mix‑ins before baking for added texture.

Can I use dark molasses?

Yes — dark molasses will give a deeper flavor, but avoid blackstrap as it’s too bitter.

What pan size should I use?

A 9×13‑inch pan works best for even baking and correct thickness.

Why are my bars too dense?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter and measure flour accurately — too much flour can lead to density.

Conclusion

These gingerbread cookie bars are an easy and festive twist on classic gingerbread cookies. With warm spices, chewy texture, and creamy frosting, they’re perfect for holiday dessert tables or cozy nights in. Once you try this recipe, you’ll have a go‑to treat that’s both simple and satisfying.