Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate cozy treat that hits all those warm, spicy notes just right, then you’ve landed in the perfect spot. I’m so excited to share my Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with you because this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic — soft, tender gingerbread bars topped with a luxuriously creamy frosting that your family (and guests!) will rave about. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving something sweet with a little holiday spirit, you’ll find this recipe super reliable and absolutely delicious.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here come together beautifully, with fragrant spices and rich molasses that give these gingerbread cookie bars their signature cozy flavor. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds that classic tang and smoothness. Make sure to pick fresh spices—they really boost the aroma and depth of the bars.

• All-purpose flour: The base that keeps these bars soft but sturdy; make sure it’s spooned and leveled for accuracy.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These give the right lift so the bars aren’t too dense.
• Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the spices.
• Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg: Fresh, aromatic spices create that classic gingerbread flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Using room temperature butter helps with creaminess and texture in the dough and frosting.
• Light brown sugar: Adds just the right amount of caramel sweetness and moisture.
• Unsulphured molasses: Use regular molasses like Grandma’s, not blackstrap, for a rich but mellow taste.
• Large egg: Helps bind the dough together smoothly.
• Cream cheese: For that smooth, tangy frosting; make sure it’s properly softened to avoid lumps.
• Vanilla paste or extract: Brings depth and sweetness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sift it for a silky frosting texture without any graininess.

Variations

I love how versatile this Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is—there’s plenty of room for your own little twists to make it just right for your taste or occasion. Don’t be afraid to play with the frosting or add mix-ins to the bars themselves.

• Spicy Kick: I once added a pinch of cayenne pepper and it gave a surprising, warm depth without overpowering the gingerbread flavor—my family went crazy for it!
• Nutty Twist: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough adds lovely crunch and texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and bake a little extra time—just watch closely.
• Frosting Alternatives: Try a simple vanilla buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting if you want a sweeter, less tangy finish.

How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Mix the Dry Spices

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13-inch pan well with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all those warm spices—ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg. This whisking step is key because it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices, so every bite has just the right touch of flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Add Molasses

In your mixer bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy—about 1 to 2 minutes. I found this step essential because it helps build a light texture. Then, beat in the egg and molasses until fully combined. This molasses is pure magic here—it gives the bars their signature richness and depth. Just a heads-up: make sure to use light unsulphured molasses, as blackstrap can add bitterness and throw off the flavor.

Step 3: Add Flour Mixture and Bake

Switch your mixer to low speed and slowly add in the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together—don’t overmix or your bars might get tough. Then press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. The thickness is perfect here for soft, chewy bars. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs—a little softness is what makes these bars so yum.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the bars are cooling, it’s time to make that dreamy frosting. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla on medium-high speed until light and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar on low speed, then crank back up and beat until fluffy. Sifting the powdered sugar beforehand helped me avoid any lumps—totally worth it. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled gingerbread bars, then slice into squares.

How to Serve Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I usually go simple and let the bars shine, but when I’m feeling festive, a light dusting of cinnamon or some finely chopped crystallized ginger sprinkled on top of the frosting is beautiful and adds a hint of extra zing. Sometimes I top with a few holiday-themed sprinkles for a fun touch if serving at a party.

Side Dishes

These bars are a sweet treat on their own, but I love pairing them with a hot cup of chai latte or rich coffee to complement the spices. For holiday gatherings, they also pair nicely with whipped cream-topped hot cocoa or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For gift-giving or parties, I slice the bars into neat little squares and layer them in a pretty tin with parchment paper to keep them fresh. You can also cut them into festive shapes with cookie cutters after frosting if you chill the bars first—just be gentle to keep that creamy frosting intact. Stack them on a beautiful serving platter with holiday greenery or cinnamon sticks as decoration to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover bars tightly with plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days, which is perfect if you’re baking ahead for a party or family gathering.

Freezing

Freezing works great if you want to prep in advance—just slice the bars first, freeze them flat on a sheet tray, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you want one, thaw them in the fridge overnight. The texture holds up surprisingly well, and the frosting tastes just as delicious.

Reheating

If you want that just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It’s blissful when the frosting softens slightly. Just don’t overheat or the frosting might get a little too runny.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe always feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I made these and shared them with friends—they disappeared so fast! The perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy frosting makes them a standout treat every time. I’m confident you’ll enjoy making and sharing these bars as much as I do. So go ahead, try this recipe—it’s a cozy, delicious way to brighten your kitchen and your day.

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