Gingerbread Brownies

Name: Gingerbread Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 ½ cups light brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons molasses; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

by Peter Harper

Published on: December 1, 2025

Decadent gingerbread brownies topped with festive cream and spices

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Gingerbread Brownies are a wonderful fusion of spiced warmth and rich chocolate, perfect for embracing the cozy seasons. These brownies are not just a treat but a sensory experience, featuring a chewy texture that combines the classic taste of gingerbread with the fudgy richness of brownies. The aroma fills your kitchen, evoking memories of the holidays with every bite. What makes these brownies particularly special is their simplicity—made with everyday ingredients, they are perfect for festive gatherings or just a comforting snack at home. Check out more desserts here: {internal_link_1}.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gingerbread Brownies are a fantastic choice for holiday celebrations, cozy family gatherings, or simply indulging in comfort food. Their delicious blend of spices and chocolate makes them a delightful treat during the colder months, bringing a touch of warmth to any occasion. This recipe is also incredibly convenient, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it easy to whip up even on the busiest days. Plus, these brownies are versatile—enjoy them plain, or top with whipped cream, ice cream, or a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar for added flair.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

The holiday season brings an abundance of fresh, local ingredients that elevate the flavors of Gingerbread Brownies. The rich brown sugar adds deep caramel notes, while molasses delivers a luxurious, dark sweetness. Ground ginger and cinnamon infuse the batter with their warm, aromatic scents, evoking feelings of nostalgia and comfort. The inviting golden-brown crust, now slightly crispy, contrasts beautifully with the soft, fudgy center. Choosing seasonal ingredients contributes to sustainability and supports local farmers, making each bite not only delicious but also earth-friendly.

What You’ll Need

1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 ½ cups light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons molasses
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

For those looking to add a different texture or flavor, consider substituting with whole wheat flour for a nuttier twist or using coconut sugar for a more caramel-like sweetness. If you need a dairy-free option, replace regular butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures the brownies come out easily and helps in achieving evenly baked edges.

2. Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. The mixture should be glossy and slightly thick. Add the eggs, molasses, and a splash of vanilla extract; combine well until fully incorporated, enveloping your senses with rich aromas.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. The dry ingredients should have a lovely warm aroma.

4. Blend Mixtures

Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture. The batter will be thick and lusciously rich.

5. Bake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Check for doneness by gently pressing the center; it should not be overly sticky.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow brownies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and cutting into squares. The surface will become slightly crusty, contrasting beautifully with the soft interior.

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls (small and large)
Whisk or electric mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
9×9-inch baking dish
Parchment paper

Having the right tools makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable—consider using a high-quality whisk for blending ingredients flawlessly.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

For those who like to plan ahead, Gingerbread Brownies can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment. Allow the brownies to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper; they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to eat.

Perfect Pairings

Enhance your Gingerbread Brownies with complementary pairs that elevate their unique flavors. A warm cup of spiced chai or rich hot chocolate creates an inviting experience, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess. For an elegant touch, serve them with fresh whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The presentation of the desserts against a backdrop of wintery décor can make for an enticing visual treat.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Dough Too Dry

If your batter seems dry, add a splash of milk until it reaches the desired consistency. This adjustment can help achieve the perfect fudgy texture.

Unevenly Shaped Brownies

To ensure even baking, use a spatula to spread the batter evenly in the dish. Check for even thickness, as this will affect cooking time and doneness.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use room-temperature ingredients for better emulsification, enhancing the batter’s texture and flavor.
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the dry ingredients.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar just before serving to maintain a beautiful presentation.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Spiced Pumpkin Brownies: Add pumpkin purée and adjust spices for a seasonal twist.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Frosted Version: Top with a cream cheese frosting for a tangy counterpart to the rich brownies.

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

For those with dietary restrictions, consider making these brownies vegan by substituting eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal, and using dairy-free butter. Gluten-free flour blends can also replace all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat without worry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, dark brown sugar can be used; it will give the brownies a deeper flavor and color.

2. How can I tell when the brownies are done?
The edges will look set, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

3. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

4. How do I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

5. Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes! Wrap them well in freezer-safe packaging, and they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

With warm spices and rich chocolate, these Gingerbread Brownies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures or tag us when you give this recipe a try! Looking for more delicious treats? Visit our desserts section for inspiration.