Ingredients:
For the Cookie Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
Be careful not to overbake to keep the bars soft and chewy.
While the cookie base is baking, prepare the frosting.
In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency.
Once the cookie base has cooled completely, spread the frosting over the top in an even layer.
Optional: Decorate with additional sprinkles, chopped nuts, or festive toppings of your choice.
Allow the frosting to set before cutting the bars into squares or rectangles.
Serve and enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Cookie Bars!
These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, and the gingerbread flavor combined with the creamy frosting is sure to be a hit.