Simple Gingerbread Brownies Recipe – Warm Festive Treats

Decadent chocolate brownies meet the warm, spicy charm of holiday gingerbread in this irresistible gingerbread brownies recipe.

Rich cocoa swirls with aromatic ginger, creating a dessert that dances between deep chocolate intensity and festive seasonal notes.

Each bite promises a luxurious blend of sweet and spice that melts perfectly on your tongue.

The recipe combines classic brownie richness with the distinctive zesty kick of traditional gingerbread spices.

Dark chocolate and molasses form a deeply satisfying base that hints at comforting winter memories.

Crumbling these brownies reveals a complex layers of flavor that elevate a simple dessert into a memorable treat.

Prepare to indulge in a delightful fusion that will become your new favorite holiday indulgence.

Gingerbread Brownies Ingredient Checklist

• Butter: A rich and flavorful base that helps create a moist and tender brownie texture.
• Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the deep, caramel-like flavor of the brownies.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help create a smooth, cohesive batter.
• Molasses: Adds a deep, warm sweetness and enhances the gingerbread flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a subtle depth and complexity to the overall taste.

• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure and foundation of the brownie.
• Ground Ginger, Cinnamon: Signature spices that give the brownies their distinctive gingerbread character.
• Baking Powder: Helps the brownies rise and creates a soft, tender crumb.
• Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the recipe.

• Confectioners' Sugar: A light, sweet dusting that adds a festive touch to the finished brownies.

Baking Instructions for Gingerbread Brownies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350°F.

Grab your 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy brownie lifting.

Step 2: Create Wet Mixture Magic

• Melted butter
• Brown sugar

Whip these together until silky smooth.

Crack in the eggs one by one, stirring after each addition.

Pour in molasses and vanilla, mixing until everything looks perfectly combined.

Step 3: Prepare Spice Blend

• All-purpose flour
• Ground ginger
• Cinnamon
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt

Blend these dry ingredients until the spices are dancing evenly throughout.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Use a spatula and mix just until combined.

Don’t go crazy with mixing – we want tender brownies!

Step 5: Fill the Baking Pan

Spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan.

Smooth the top with your spatula to create a level surface.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

The edges should look set, and the center should be just barely wiggle-free.

Do the toothpick test – it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Decorate

Let the brownies chill completely in the pan.

Dust with a snowfall of confectioners’ sugar.

Slice into squares and get ready to devour these spicy, chocolatey treats!

Helpful Tips for Gingerbread Brownies Recipe

• Experiment with additional warm spices like nutmeg or cloves to enhance the gingerbread flavor profile.
• Avoid overbaking by checking the brownies a few minutes earlier, ensuring they remain moist and fudgy.
• Fold dry ingredients gently to maintain a light, tender brownie texture without developing tough gluten.
• Replace some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Store and Reheat Gingerbread Brownies

• Store cooled brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
• Place brownies in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Warm individual brownie squares for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add more time if needed. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Warm brownies at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent edges from becoming too crisp.

Great Pairings for Gingerbread Brownies

• Warm Spiced Chai Latte: Create a cozy flavor harmony by serving a creamy, aromatic chai tea alongside these rich brownies. The warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger in the latte complement the gingerbread's deep, complex flavor profile.
• Caramel Cream Cheese Drizzle: Elevate the brownies with a luxurious homemade caramel sauce swirled with tangy cream cheese. This decadent topping adds a silky, sweet contrast to the spiced chocolate base, making each bite more indulgent.
• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Scoop: Top warm gingerbread brownies with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The cold, smooth texture and subtle vanilla notes provide a delightful temperature and flavor contrast that enhances the dessert's rich, spicy characteristics.
• Mulled Red Wine Pairing: Serve a glass of warm, spiced red wine alongside these brownies for an adult dessert experience. The wine's deep fruity undertones and gentle spice notes beautifully echo the gingerbread's warm, complex flavors.

Gingerbread Brownies Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Ginger Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same rich texture while making the brownies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Spice Squares: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water) and use plant-based butter or coconut oil to create a dairy-free, egg-free version that maintains the warm gingerbread flavor.
• Low-Sugar Ginger Brownie Bites: Swap brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while preserving the deep, molasses-like taste that defines these gingerbread brownies.
• Nutty Ginger Chocolate Chunk Variation: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans and dark chocolate chunks before baking, adding extra crunch and depth to the classic gingerbread brownie recipe.

FAQs

• What are the key spices in these gingerbread brownies?

Ground ginger and cinnamon are the primary spices that give these brownies their distinctive gingerbread flavor, creating a warm and festive taste profile that sets them apart from traditional chocolate brownies.

• How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

The brownies are done when the edges are set, the center is no longer jiggly, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. This ensures a fudgy, soft texture without being undercooked.

• Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

You can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a deeper flavor. For a gluten-free version, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

• Why is molasses important in this recipe?

Molasses adds a rich, deep sweetness and contributes to the classic gingerbread flavor, giving these brownies their unique depth and moisture that sets them apart from regular brownies.

What Makes Gingerbread Brownies So Good

• Gingerbread brownies blend classic chocolate richness with warm, comforting holiday spices for a unique twist on traditional brownies.
• This recipe requires minimal preparation and basic baking skills, making it perfect for home bakers of all experience levels.
• Versatile enough for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dessert nights, these brownies appeal to both kids and adults with their irresistible flavor combination.
• Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip up a delicious dessert in under an hour, satisfying sweet cravings with minimal fuss.

Gingerbread Brownies Recipe

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4.5 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Festive gingerbread brownies blend holiday warmth with rich chocolate decadence, creating a delightful dessert that dances between classic comfort and seasonal cheer. Spicy molasses and warm ginger invite winter memories while chocolate layers promise indulgent satisfaction for anyone craving a sweet holiday treat.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, room temperature

Spices and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Leavening and Finishing:

• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Confectioners sugar, for dusting

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9-inch dish with parchment paper, ensuring overhanging edges for easy removal.
2. Create a smooth wet mixture by whisking melted butter and brown sugar until well combined, then incorporate eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
3. Fold in molasses and vanilla extract, stirring until the wet ingredients form a homogeneous blend.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt, ensuring even distribution of spices.
5. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix and maintaining a light texture.
6. Transfer batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly and smoothing the surface with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, watching for set edges and a slightly firm center. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick, which should emerge with minimal moist crumbs.
8. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely within the baking dish.
9. Finish by dusting with confectioners’ sugar and cutting into square servings.

Notes

• Adjust ground ginger and cinnamon quantities to suit personal taste preferences, ensuring the warming flavors complement the rich chocolate undertones.
• Check brownies early to prevent overbaking, as they should remain slightly fudgy in the center for optimal texture and decadent mouthfeel.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, maintaining the same measurement to create inclusive treats for those with dietary restrictions.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 246
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg