Gingerbread Brownies combine the rich, dense texture of traditional brownies with the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread. These delightful treats are ideal for festive occasions like Christmas or any time you want to indulge in a spicy-sweet dessert. The combination of chewy brownie goodness and aromatic spices makes them a standout choice for your dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a flavor profile that is both unique and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, these brownies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a special surprise for friends and family.
- Chewy Texture: Enjoy the rich, fudgy texture that complements the spiced flavors beautifully.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares to easily share with loved ones or package as gifts.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Gingerbread Brownies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother baking experience and better results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A sturdy 9×9-inch pan helps create evenly baked brownies with the right thickness.
- Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift out the brownies once baked.
- Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients allows for thorough mixing without overworking the batter.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Gingerbread Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, (melted)
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) light brown sugar, (packed)
- 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- confectioners’ sugar, (for dusting)
For Garnish
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
How to Make Gingerbread Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar. Stir well until mixed. Then add in eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually stir the dry flour mixture into the wet butter mixture. Continue mixing until completely combined but be careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is no longer jiggly. If using a larger pan (9×13 inches), reduce baking time to about 25–30 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Gingerbread Brownies cool completely in the pan before dusting with confectioners’ sugar. Once cool, cut them into squares and enjoy!
How to Serve Gingerbread Brownies
Gingerbread Brownies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Top your brownies with fluffy whipped cream for a light and creamy contrast to the rich flavors.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair your warm brownies with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious hot-and-cold experience.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
Garnished with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor that balances the softness of the brownies.
Dusting of Confectioners’ Sugar
- A simple dusting of confectioners’ sugar not only enhances the presentation but adds a touch of sweetness.
Served with Hot Cocoa
- Enjoy these brownies alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy dessert pairing.
How to Perfect Gingerbread Brownies
To ensure your Gingerbread Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature eggs: This helps the batter mix more evenly, creating a better texture in your brownies.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined to keep your brownies chewy and not cakey.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, indicating they are done but still fudgy.
- Let them cool completely: Allowing the brownies to cool fully before cutting helps them set and makes slicing easier.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger and cinnamon based on your taste preferences for a unique flavor profile.
- Store properly: Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their deliciousness.
Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Brownies
Gingerbread Brownies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here’s a selection that pairs wonderfully with them:
- Spiced Applesauce
A warm bowl of spiced applesauce offers a fruity balance to the rich brownie flavors. - Cranberry Compote
Tart cranberry compote adds a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with sweet desserts. - Pumpkin Spice Latte
This seasonal favorite brings warmth and familiar spice notes that harmonize well with gingerbread treats. - Pecan Pie Bites
Mini pecan pies add another texture and flavor, making dessert time even more indulgent. - Cheesecake Bars
Creamy cheesecake bars provide a luscious counterpart, enhancing your dessert spread’s variety. - Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad can lighten up the dessert table while adding color and nutrition. - Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate creates an exciting contrast against sweet brownies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Gingerbread Brownies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Using an oven that is too hot or too cold can lead to uneven baking. Make sure to preheat your oven properly to 350°F for optimal results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to tough brownies. Stir until just combined for a chewy texture that’s perfect for Gingerbread Brownies.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into brownies before they cool can result in a gooey mess. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges.
- Using Old Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor. Check the freshness of your ground ginger and cinnamon; replace them if they’ve been sitting for too long.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Gingerbread Brownies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freezing Gingerbread Brownies
- Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Gingerbread Brownies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm brownies for about 10 minutes. This helps maintain their chewy texture.
- Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on high for 15-20 seconds. This is great for a quick treat.
- Stovetop: Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat gently until warmed through without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gingerbread Brownies often raise some common questions. Here are some answers to help you out!
Can I use gluten-free flour for Gingerbread Brownies?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in this recipe. It may alter the texture slightly, but they will still taste delicious.
How do I make my Gingerbread Brownies more chocolatey?
You can add cocoa powder or chocolate chips into the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor while keeping the gingerbread essence intact.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to my Gingerbread Brownies?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch, as would white chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for added festive flair.
How long do these Gingerbread Brownies last?
When stored properly, they last about one week in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Gingerbread Brownies are not only rich and chewy but also bring warmth and spice that makes them perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Their versatility allows you to customize them with different mix-ins or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every indulgent bite!
Gingerbread Brownies
Indulge in the cozy flavors of the holiday season with these Gingerbread Brownies. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the warm spices of gingerbread—cinnamon, ginger, and molasses—these treats are perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet surprise for loved ones. The chewy consistency pairs beautifully with aromatic spices, making them a standout dessert choice. Serve them dusted with confectioners’ sugar, topped with whipped cream, or alongside a scoop of ice cream for an extra special touch. These Gingerbread Brownies are sure to impress and delight anyone who tries them.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 brownies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Confectioners' sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar until combined. Add eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract; stir until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for approximately 30–35 minutes or until set.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners' sugar and cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (67g)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. Avoid overmixing to maintain a chewy texture. Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
