Gingerbread Brownies Recipe : A Spiced Holiday Twist on a Classic Dessert

If you’re craving a cozy, nostalgic dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of the holiday season, Gingerbread Brownies are the ultimate treat. With the warm, spicy notes of traditional gingerbread and the rich, chewy texture of a brownie, this fusion dessert is guaranteed to steal the show at any winter gathering. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight bake or a festive dessert centerpiece, this Gingerbread Brownies recipe delivers.

This festive dessert is ideal for those who love real gingerbread, enjoy experimenting with spicy gingerbread desserts, or want to surprise guests with something different from the typical holiday pie or cookie. You can even serve them alongside Halloween Brownies or Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies for a full dessert spread.

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What Are Gingerbread Brownies?

Gingerbread Brownies are a seasonal dessert that combines the molasses-rich, spice-forward flavor of gingerbread with the dense, chewy consistency of brownies. Think of them as gingerbread cake mix brownies, only better—made from scratch with pantry staples and bold flavor.

These bars are perfect when you’re in the mood for spicy gingerbread but don’t want to roll out dough or decorate cookies. This dessert hits all the right notes for anyone who enjoys gingerbread cheesecake brownies, classic brownies, or even gingerbread pie.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Brownies

To make these brownies, you’ll need common baking ingredients along with holiday spices. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Molasses (not blackstrap)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

If you’re looking for more desserts made with seasonal spices, don’t miss Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles or Pumpkin Fluff Dip as they also deliver warm, holiday spice flavors.

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How to Make Gingerbread Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a larger bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Stir
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft.

Step 6: Cool and Slice
Let cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Serve with Lavender Lemonade or Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew for a cozy winter pairing.

Tips for the Best Gingerbread Brownies

• Use fresh ground spices for bold flavor
• Avoid overbaking to maintain fudginess
• Let the brownies cool completely before slicing
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence

These tips also apply when making variations like gingerbread cheesecake brownies or spicy gingerbread dessert bars.

Gingerbread Brownies Variations

Gingerbread Cheesecake Brownies: Swirl in a cream cheese layer before baking for a tangy twist.
Gingerbread Cake Mix Brownies: Use a boxed mix and enhance with spices and molasses for a quick version.
Spicy Gingerbread Brownies: Add extra ginger and a pinch of black pepper for serious spice lovers.
Frosted Gingerbread Brownies: Top with cream cheese frosting or maple glaze.

If you love experimenting with textures and flavors, try Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl or Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread for more inspiration.

How to Store Gingerbread Brownies

These brownies keep well and can be made ahead.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 1 week. Let sit at room temperature before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and store up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Make them part of a holiday treat box alongside Pumpkin Truffles or Apple Fritter Donuts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes gingerbread brownies different from regular brownies?
The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon gives these brownies a bold, spicy profile, unlike the traditional chocolate-focused brownie.

Can I make them in a 9×13 pan?
You can, but the texture will be thinner and the baking time should be reduced slightly.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Test a small batch first for best results.

Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Semi-sweet or white chocolate chips add richness.

Can I make gingerbread brownies without molasses?
Molasses is key to achieving that deep flavor. If you must substitute, use dark corn syrup with a pinch of brown sugar, but the flavor will be milder.

If you’re avoiding sugar altogether, check out Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs for a low-carb treat.

Final Thoughts

These Gingerbread Brownies bring together the best parts of two beloved desserts—warm holiday spices and fudgy chocolate. Perfect for baking on a chilly day, gifting to friends, or serving at your next holiday party, they’re festive, flavorful, and easy to make.

Love bold desserts? Try the Pumpkin Dump Cake or cozy up with Apple Crisp with Oatmeal. Whether you’re team spicy gingerbread or classic brownie, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

Make your holiday season extra special—bake a batch of Gingerbread Brownies today and fill your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon, ginger, and joy.

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