Gingerbread Brownies

Oh wow, you guys! I just baked the yummiest Gingerbread Brownies ever. They smell so warm and cozy, like the holidays!

I mean, brownies are amazing on their own, right? But adding gingerbread spices? Totally next level. They’re soft, chewy, and full of that cinnamon-y goodness.

I couldn’t wait to taste one (okay, maybe I ate two!). They’re perfect with a cup of hot cocoa. Honestly, everyone will ask for seconds.

So, let’s grab our baking pans and spice things up with these Gingerbread Brownies. I promise, they’re super easy and super tasty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Unique Twist on Traditional Brownies: This recipe combines the classic chewy brownie texture with the warm, aromatic spices of gingerbread for a cozy winter dessert.
• Deliciously Spiced: The combination of cinnamon, ginger, and molasses brings a rich, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness of the brownies.
• Easy to Make: Despite being packed with flavor, these gingerbread brownies are super easy to whip up. No fancy equipment required.
• Perfect for the Holidays: The warm, comforting spices make this recipe perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter celebration.
• Freezer-Friendly: If you have leftovers (which you probably won’t!), these brownies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for make-ahead holiday baking.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious gingerbread brownies:

• Mixing Bowls: A large one for the wet ingredients and a smaller one for dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key to getting the balance of spices just right.
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This makes the mixing process quick and easy, but you can also use a whisk and elbow grease if you prefer.
• Spatula: To scrape down the sides and mix everything together evenly.
• Baking Pan (9×13-inch): A standard baking pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Parchment Paper (Optional): For easy removal of brownies after baking.
• Cooling Rack: For letting your brownies cool down before serving.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful, spiced brownies (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Butter: Unsalted butter helps create a soft, chewy brownie base.
• Light Brown Sugar: The molasses in the brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that’s perfect for the gingerbread theme.
• Eggs: They provide structure and moisture to the brownies.
• Molasses: The key ingredient that gives the brownies their signature gingerbread flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the other flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of the brownies, giving them structure.
• Ground Ginger and Cinnamon: These spices add warmth and depth, making the gingerbread flavor really stand out.
• Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the brownies rise slightly for that perfect chewy texture.
• Kosher Salt: Salt helps balance out the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Confectioners’ Sugar (for dusting): A light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the brownies makes for a festive touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan

Before you begin mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will give it time to heat up while you prepare the batter. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and light brown sugar until smooth and well combined. You want the sugar to dissolve into the butter for a silky base. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to incorporate them fully into the mixture. Stir in the molasses and vanilla extract. The molasses will give the brownies their signature deep, sweet flavor that will pair wonderfully with the spices in the dry ingredients.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt. These dry ingredients are what give the brownies their structure and that comforting, spicy gingerbread flavor. Make sure the dry ingredients are well-mixed to ensure even distribution when combined with the wet ingredients.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overworking the batter can lead to dense brownies. The batter should be thick and rich, with just a slight sheen from the melted butter and molasses.

5. Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with a few moist crumbs attached). The top should be slightly cracked and firm to the touch, and the edges should be pulling away from the sides of the pan.

6. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar for a festive, snow-like touch.

Variations for Gingerbread Brownies

While this gingerbread brownie recipe is a classic, there are a few fun variations to try depending on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an even more decadent treat, fold in some dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter before baking. The added chocolate will create pockets of gooey chocolate within the spiced brownies.
• Use Dark Molasses: Dark molasses has a stronger flavor and will intensify the gingerbread notes in the brownies, making them even more aromatic.
• Add Candied Ginger: For a spicier kick, chop up some candied ginger and fold it into the batter. This will give the brownies an extra burst of flavor and a chewy texture.
• Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: These brownies are perfect on their own, but adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take them to the next level of indulgence.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make these brownies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How to Serve Gingerbread Brownies

These gingerbread brownies are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect treat for different occasions. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

• As a Holiday Dessert: Serve these brownies at your next Christmas or Thanksgiving gathering. Their warm spices make them ideal for the winter season.
• With a Hot Drink: Pair them with a hot mug of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a comforting snack.
• For a Festive Party: Cut the brownies into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter at your next holiday party. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• As a Breakfast or Snack: Who says brownies are just for dessert? These gingerbread brownies are perfectly acceptable for a sweet breakfast treat or mid-afternoon snack.

Storing Gingerbread Brownies

You can store your gingerbread brownies to keep them fresh and delicious:

• At Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Refrigerator: If you want them to last longer, you can keep the brownies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
• Freezing Gingerbread Brownies: These brownies freeze well for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving (1 brownie)
Calories	210 kcal
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	110mg
Total Carbohydrates	32g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	20g
Protein	2g

Conclusion

These Gingerbread Brownies are an absolute treat that combines the heartwarming flavors of gingerbread with the indulgence of a brownie. Whether you’re preparing them for the holidays, a winter treat, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy them as is, or get creative with your variations to make them your own. Whichever way you choose, these brownies will certainly steal the show!

Gingerbread Brownies FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these gingerbread brownies can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze gingerbread brownies?

Absolutely! These brownies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How do I make these brownies extra chocolatey?

For an extra chocolatey flavor, you can mix in some chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the batter before baking. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the spiced gingerbread flavor.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a slightly deeper molasses flavor. You could also use coconut sugar or white granulated sugar, but it will change the flavor profile a bit.