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Made these spiced bars for my folks over the weekend and they vanished so fast. They're incredibly moist, packed with warm spices and covered with the smoothest cream cheese topping you can imagine. These are my go-to for gatherings since one tray makes 24 portions and runs under $6 total. That's not even 25 cents per piece. Way more budget-friendly than store-bought treats and they taste tons better too.
What Makes These Bars Special
Ever notice how traditional gingerbread cookies tend to be firm and crispy? These squares are completely different. They remain wonderfully soft for several days and the cream cheese layer on top is so delicious you'll be scraping the bowl. My little ones always enjoy adding colorful sprinkles. No complicated cookie shapes or dough rolling required – just combine, pour and cook. Much simpler than old-school gingerbread.
How To Make Gingerbread Bars
- Combine dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and ginger in a mixing bowl.
- Prepare wet mixture: Beat together your butter, sugars, molasses and vanilla until creamy.
- Incorporate egg: Drop in the egg and blend thoroughly.
- Mix everything together: Gradually add your dry ingredients to wet mixture until it forms a dense batter.
- Bake it: Pour into your baking dish and cook at 350 for roughly 20 minutes.
- Let it rest: Allow to cool entirely before adding frosting.
- Add frosting: Whip up your cream cheese topping and spread across the top.
- Finish up: Add festive sprinkles then slice into squares.
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Storage Tips For Maximum Freshness
- During events: They can stay out for a few hours while your guests enjoy them.
- Afterwards: Store any extras in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 5 days.
- Long-term storage: Want to keep them longer? Remove the sprinkles, freeze them on a sheet, wrap them securely and place in a freezer bag. They'll stay good for about two months.
Try These Related Treats Too
- Traditional spiced bars with tangy cream cheese topping
- No-bake gingerbread truffle balls great for presents
- Zesty gingerbread cupcakes with cinnamon cream cheese swirl
- Our crowd-pleasing gingerbread spread for cookie dunking
- My nana's trusted method for crafting gingerbread structures
Fast Answers To Your Questions
Can you make them in advance? Absolutely, just bake them a day ahead and keep in the fridge. They'll stay tasty for around 5 days.
Thinking about freezing? Go ahead, wrap them tightly and they'll last a couple months frozen.
What about extras? Just pop them in a container in your fridge and enjoy them all week long.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for bars that are slightly darker in color and a toothpick inserted comes out with just a few moist crumbs. They should be soft but set in the middle.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Let them come to room temperature before serving for best taste.
- → Why did my cream cheese frosting turn out lumpy?
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing. Beat them together first until smooth, then add other ingredients.
- → Can I freeze these bars?
These bars freeze well for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- → Can I adjust the amount of spices?
Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. The recipe creates a classic gingerbread flavor, but you can add more ginger for extra kick.