Oh, the magic of the holidays! There’s something special about the blend of spices, the sweet scents wafting through the air, and, of course, the joy of sharing it all with friends and family. Enter my all-time favorite festive dessert: Frosted Peppermint Gingerbread Bars! These bars are a delightful twist on classic gingerbread, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights spent by the fire. I came across this recipe during a particularly busy holiday season, and let me tell you, they become an instant hit! Now, whenever I make them, I can’t help but remember the laughter and warmth they bring to the table. Plus, they’re visually stunning with that bright peppermint finish, making them irresistible.
So, put on your favorite holiday playlist, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this winter wonderland of flavors. These bars are soft, fragrant, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that will make you swoon! Now, let’s get to the good stuff.
What’s in Frosted Peppermint Gingerbread Bars?
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of our bars, giving them that perfect structure. I use King Arthur flour because I find it to be consistent in quality.
- Baking soda: Our leavening agent! It helps the bars rise to pillowy perfection.
- Ground ginger: The warm heat of ginger will tickle your taste buds and remind you of gingerbread houses.
- Ground cinnamon: A holiday staple! Its cozy aroma is sure to fill your kitchen with that festive cheer.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
- Ground cloves: Just a pinch will enhance the warmth and depth of the bars.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and heightens the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Helps create a rich, moist texture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
- Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar brings in that delightful molasses flavor and moisture.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch for sweetness—every bit counts during the holidays!
- Molasses: The star of gingerbread! It adds a deep, rich flavor and keeps the bars wonderfully moist.
- Egg: Binds all our ingredients together for that perfect bar texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla makes everything sweeter and more aromatic.
Is Frosted Peppermint Gingerbread Bars Good for You?
Ah, the age-old question of indulgence during the holidays! While these Gingerbread Bars aren’t exactly a health food, they do offer some benefits. For instance, ginger and cinnamon are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, making them with love means they’re just as good for the soul as they are for your taste buds. Just be mindful of portion sizes—these bars are a treat, after all! If you want a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with a light whipped topping or even Greek yogurt for a tangier twist. But really, who can resist that creamy frosting after all the hard work? Treat yourself!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsweetened cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)
How to Make Frosted Peppermint Gingerbread Bars?
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract and enough milk to reach your desired frosting consistency.
- Frost the Bars: Once the gingerbread bars have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for decoration and extra flavor.
- Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy!
Holiday Cheer Tips!
- These bars are perfect for potlucks or holiday parties! They hold up well and travel easily.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed peppermint based on your holiday spirit! More peppermint equals more festivity!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Fun fact: the flavors actually deepen over time, making them even more delicious!
There you have it—Frosted Peppermint Gingerbread Bars that will surely charm everyone at your feast! Let me know how yours turn out; share your pictures, and I might just live vicariously through your holiday baking adventures. Happy baking and may your holidays be sprinkled with joy and delightful treats!
