Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers all the nostalgic flavors of gingerbread in an easy bar form. The dough comes together quickly, and baking it in one pan saves so much time. The bars turn out perfectly chewy with golden edges and a soft, spiced center. They’re ideal for gifting, sharing, or keeping on the counter during the holidays. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves gives them that unmistakable festive aroma that makes the whole house smell amazing.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¼ cups
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
Ground Ginger: 1 ½ teaspoons
Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Ground Cloves: ½ teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks), softened
Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed
Egg: 1 large
Pure Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Molasses: ½ cup

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Then I line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it for easy removal later.

In one bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In a separate large bowl, I cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. I then beat in the egg, vanilla, and molasses until smooth and well combined.

Next, I gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick, sticky dough forms. Once combined, I press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

I bake the bars for 20–22 minutes, just until the edges are set and the center is no longer jiggly. I let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing them to ensure clean edges.

Once cooled, I like to drizzle a simple glaze over the top or dust them with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 22 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add white chocolate chips or drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a sweet twist. For extra texture, I mix in chopped pecans or walnuts. If I want more spice, I increase the ginger or cinnamon slightly. To make them extra festive, I top them with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. For a dairy-free version, I use plant-based butter.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They stay soft and chewy, but if I want to keep them longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week. To freeze, I wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I thaw them at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use dark molasses instead of light?

Yes, I prefer dark molasses because it gives a richer, more robust gingerbread flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Absolutely. I use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and they come out just as chewy.

How do I know when the bars are done?

I remove them when the edges are firm and the center is just set. Overbaking can make them dry.

Can I add frosting?

Yes, I love topping them with cream cheese frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze.

How do I keep the bars soft?

I store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—the moisture keeps them chewy.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of molasses?

If I’m out of molasses, I mix equal parts brown sugar and honey, though the flavor will be lighter.

Can I bake these in a smaller pan?

Yes, for thicker bars, I use a 9×9-inch pan and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I cut clean slices?

I let the bars cool completely before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. I double the ingredients and bake in a large sheet pan for easy serving at parties.

Conclusion

I love how these gingerbread cookie bars combine all the classic flavors of the holidays with the ease of a simple bar recipe. They’re warm, chewy, and perfectly spiced—ideal for gifting or serving at festive gatherings. Whether I’m making them for friends, family, or just a cozy night in, they always bring a touch of holiday cheer to the table.