Name: Chewy Gingerbread Bars: 12 Irresistible Festive Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp ground ginger; 1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 3/4 cup butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup molasses; 6 tbsp butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp milk (more as needed)

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Chewy Gingerbread Bars are the epitome of cozy winter baking, offering a delightful combination of spices and sweetness that warms the heart. These bars are irresistibly soft and chewy, making them a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or a comforting snack with your favorite hot beverage. With their rich molasses flavor and a blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, they evoke the essence of the festive season. Let’s dive into the details of how to make these scrumptious bars, ensuring your winter celebrations are sweet and memorable!

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Gingerbread Bars

There are countless reasons to love these Chewy Gingerbread Bars. Here are just a few:

**Delicious Flavor**: The deep molasses and spices create a rich, warm flavor profile.
**Easy to Make**: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for bakers of all levels.
**Moist and Chewy Texture**: Unlike traditional gingerbread, these bars remain soft and chewy for days.
**Perfect for Gifting**: Wrap them up as delightful presents for friends and family.
**Great for Holiday Parties**: They’re an instant hit at any festive gathering.
**Versatile**: You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins, making them a fantastic canvas for creativity.
**Vegetarian-Friendly**: This recipe is suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.

These features make them one of the best gingerbread dessert recipes for the holidays!

Ingredients for Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Gather these items:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground ginger
1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup molasses
6 tbsp butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk (more as needed)

How to Make Chewy Gingerbread Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Mix in the egg and vanilla, then blend in the molasses until smooth.
Step 5: Slowly add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined.
Step 6: Press the thick batter evenly into the baking pan.
Step 7: Bake for 15–20 minutes, until set but still soft. Do not overbake.
Step 8: Cool fully. Beat frosting ingredients until creamy and spread over bars.
Step 9: Cut into squares and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Chewy Gingerbread Bars

Keep these in mind:

Store bars in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
They stay moist for several days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
For best results, do not overbake; they should be soft to the touch when removed from the oven.
Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture!

Best Ways to Serve Chewy Gingerbread Bars

These bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving:

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Serve with hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy treat.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.

How to Store and Reheat Chewy Gingerbread Bars

To keep your Chewy Gingerbread Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several days, maintaining their moistness. If you want to reheat them, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm. This recipe is perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chewy Gingerbread Bars

What are chewy gingerbread bars?

Chewy Gingerbread Bars are thick, soft dessert bars made with spices and molasses, offering a chewy texture and rich flavor profile. They differ from traditional gingerbread cookies by being more moist and cake-like, making them a favorite for many during the holidays.

Can I make Chewy Gingerbread Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a few days in advance and will maintain their moisture and flavor. Simply store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. They make for convenient holiday treats!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chewy Gingerbread Bars?

To ensure your Chewy Gingerbread Bars turn out perfectly, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to dense bars. Additionally, be cautious not to overbake them; they should feel soft when removed from the oven.

Variations of Chewy Gingerbread Bars You Can Try

Explore these fun twists on the classic recipe:

**Add Chocolate Chips**: Incorporate semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a delightful contrast.
**Nutty Delight**: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
**Fruity Flavor**: Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist.
**Gluten-Free Option**: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations to create your own perfect version of Chewy Gingerbread Bars!