Gingerbread Brownies Recipe

Gingerbread Brownies combine the rich, spiced flavors of gingerbread with the chewy, fudgy texture of a brownie. These holiday delights are perfect for anyone who loves seasonal desserts but wants to break away from traditional gingerbread cookies. They make a great addition to holiday parties, gift baskets, or a cozy evening at home.

Whether you’re looking for a festive new dessert or a simple treat that combines warmth and nostalgia, these Gingerbread Brownies will quickly become a favorite. Keep reading for detailed instructions, tips, and answers to your burning questions about this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Gingerbread Brownies stand out with their soft, chewy texture and perfect balance of spice. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Classic Holiday Flavor: Gingerbread spices like cinnamon and ginger add a warm, comforting taste perfect for winter.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
• Versatile Dessert: You can serve these brownies plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or even dressed up with whipped cream or ice cream.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Brownies

Before diving into the baking process, gather the following ingredients. Each element contributes to the rich, spiced flavor and chewy texture of the 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

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand can streamline your baking experience. Here’s a list of kitchen equipment you’ll need to make these Gingerbread Brownies:

• 9×9-inch baking dish (or a 9×13-inch for thinner brownies)
• Parchment paper (for easy removal and cleanup)
• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Whisk (or a fork for mixing the dry ingredients)
• Spatula (for spreading the batter)
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Gingerbread Brownies

Making these Gingerbread Brownies is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have delicious brownies ready in no time.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and set it aside.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and packed brown sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Next, mix in the eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
3. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
4. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the flour mixture until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher brownies.
5. Spread and bake: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes (or 25–30 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan). The brownies are ready when the edges are set, and the center is no longer jiggly.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before dusting them with confectioners’ sugar. Once cooled, cut them into squares and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure the best results, avoid these common mistakes when making Gingerbread Brownies:

• Overmixing the batter: Stirring the flour too much can result in dense, tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
• Undercooking or overcooking: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. The edges should be set, and the center should be firm but not dry.
• Skipping parchment paper: This helps to remove the brownies easily and keeps them intact when cutting.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Brownies

• Add-ins for a twist: For extra texture and flavor, consider folding in white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crystallized ginger into the batter.
• Brownie texture preference: If you prefer thicker brownies, stick with the 9×9-inch pan. If you’d rather have thinner, bar-like brownies, use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Molasses substitute: If you don’t have molasses, dark corn syrup or honey can be used, but molasses gives the most authentic gingerbread flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

These Gingerbread Brownies are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them a wonderful option for holiday gatherings or gifting. Here are some fun presentation ideas:

• Simple dusting: After cooling, lightly dust the top with confectioners’ sugar for a snowy holiday look.
• Holiday decorations: Use festive cookie cutters to cut the brownies into shapes like stars or trees.
• Dress it up: Serve the brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storing Gingerbread Brownies

To keep your Gingerbread Brownies fresh for longer, follow these storage tips:

• At room temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Layer the brownies between parchment paper to prevent them from sticking.
• Freezing: Wrap each brownie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for a few seconds.

FAQ About Gingerbread Brownies

Can I make these brownies vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter to make vegan Gingerbread Brownies.

What can I use instead of molasses?
You can replace molasses with dark corn syrup, maple syrup, or honey. However, molasses gives the brownies a richer, deeper flavor.

Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the mix for a more complex flavor profile.

How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check the brownies at the minimum baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the brownies are ready.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Brownies are a perfect way to enjoy the comforting flavors of gingerbread in a soft, chewy dessert. With a simple recipe and endless presentation options, these brownies are sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Be sure to try this recipe and share it with your friends and family.

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