Chewy Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the deep, spicy flavor of gingerbread with the sweet tang of cream cheese frosting. These bars are quicker than rolling out individual cookies, and I only need one baking dish to get a whole batch ready to serve. They’re soft in the center, lightly crisped around the edges, and the frosting is thick enough to feel indulgent without being overpowering. Plus, they’re easy to decorate, which makes them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Gingerbread Bars:

• 1 and ½ cups flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 and ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 3 teaspoons ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup melted butter

• 1 egg

• ¼ cup molasses

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• ½ cup softened butter

• 4 oz softened cream cheese

• 2.5 cups powdered/confectioners sugar

• Optional: holiday sprinkles

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch square baking dish with a bit of oil.

2. In a mixing bowl, I combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, I beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Then I add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing again until smooth.

4. I gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until everything is fully incorporated. The dough is a bit sticky, but that’s normal.

5. I transfer the batter to the baking dish and use a rubber spatula — sometimes dampened with water — to press and spread it evenly.

6. I bake the bars for 16–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs but no wet batter.

7. Once baked, I let the bars cool completely in the pan before flipping them onto a tray to frost.

8. For the frosting, I beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Then I add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth.

9. I spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars, top with sprinkles if I want, and slice into 24 squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 24 bars. The total time is 26 minutes, with 10 minutes for prep and 16 minutes for baking.

Variations

• Spicier bars: I add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for deeper holiday flavor.

• Citrus twist: A bit of orange zest in the frosting adds a bright contrast to the gingerbread.

• Gluten-free option: I’ve used a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with great results.

• Different frosting: I’ve also topped these with a maple glaze or simple vanilla icing instead of cream cheese.

• Decorate creatively: I sometimes use crushed peppermint, mini gingerbread men, or festive stencils for a decorative touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I prefer letting them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving so the frosting softens slightly. They also freeze well — I freeze the unfrosted bars, thaw them, then frost just before serving.

FAQs

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I double it and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. I just watch the baking time — it may need a few extra minutes.

Do I need to refrigerate these?

Because of the cream cheese frosting, I keep them refrigerated. They’re fine at room temp for a few hours when serving, though.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Definitely. I often bake the bars a day in advance, store them covered, and frost the next day.

What type of molasses should I use?

I stick with unsulfured molasses for the best balance of flavor — not too bitter, not too sweet.

Why is my batter so sticky?

The molasses and melted butter make the dough sticky, but it spreads easily with a damp spatula or spoon.

Conclusion

These Chewy Gingerbread Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are one of my go-to treats during the holidays. They come together fast, taste amazing, and add just the right amount of festive flair to any dessert table. Whether I’m sharing them at a party or saving a few for myself with a cup of tea, they always deliver cozy, spiced flavor in every bite.

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