Name: Comforting Simple Gingerbread Brownies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides rich moisture; use high-quality butter for best flavor.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness; can substitute with dark brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 2 large Eggs (At room temperature for optimal blending.); 1/4 cup Light Molasses (Delivers gentle sweetness; avoid blackstrap molasses.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla extract for richest flavor.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative.); 2 teaspoons Ground Ginger (Infuses signature spice; fresh ginger can elevate flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Precise measurement is key to avoid overwhelming flavor.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps the brownies rise for a fluffy texture.); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness; regular salt can be used with adjustments.); 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar (Adds a sweet finish; light dusting for an elegant touch.)

As the first hints of winter envelop us, my mind drifts to the comfort of cozy kitchens filled with the aroma of spices. These Simple Gingerbread Brownies encapsulate all that warmth and nostalgia, blending the traditional flavors of gingerbread with the chewy decadence of brownies. With just a few accessible ingredients, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time—perfect for those holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. They not only satisfy sweet cravings but also add a festive twist that will impress your friends and family. Ready to create something extraordinary that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

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Why are these brownies a holiday must?

Comforting, Cozy Flavors: These Simple Gingerbread Brownies bring a warm twist to your holiday baking with rich spices like ginger and cinnamon.

Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up effortlessly—perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Their unique flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds, making them ideal for festive gatherings or cozy nights in.

Versatile Temptations: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture, or enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream after a chilly day!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake these brownies ahead of time, and you’ll have a delicious treat ready to impress your guests whenever needed!

These brownies are not just treats; they create memories to cherish during the holiday season! Consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai for an even more delightful experience!

Simple Gingerbread Brownies Ingredients

• Dive in to create the perfect holiday treat!

For the Brownie Batter

Unsalted Butter – Provides rich moisture; use a high-quality butter for the best flavor.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a warm caramel note; can substitute with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal blending.
Light Molasses – Delivers a gentle sweetness and depth; avoid blackstrap molasses to keep the flavors well-balanced.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; opt for pure vanilla extract for the richest flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the brownies; gluten-free flour can be used for a suitable alternative.
Ground Ginger – Infuses the signature spice; fresh ginger can elevate the flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; precise measurement is key to avoid overwhelming flavors.
Baking Powder – Helps the brownies rise for a fluffy texture.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the spices; use regular salt if that’s what you have, but tweak the amount accordingly.

For Dusting

Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds a sweet finish; a light dusting makes these brownies extra special.

These Simple Gingerbread Brownies are sure to spread comfort and joy during the holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Gingerbread Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This setup ensures that your Simple Gingerbread Brownies will bake evenly and release effortlessly after cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and glossy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The warmth of the melted butter helps to dissolve the sugar, giving your brownies a rich and moist texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of light molasses, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mix. Use a whisk to blend everything together until fully combined and creamy, taking about another 2 minutes. This mixture is critical for the delightful flavor and texture found in these Simple Gingerbread Brownies.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are well-combined and free of lumps, which will contribute to the brownies’ fluffy consistency when baked.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough brownies. The batter should be thick and slightly glossy; this is a sure sign that your Simple Gingerbread Brownies will be chewy and delicious!

Step 6: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly into the corners. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly when you shake the pan. This will ensure a fudgy texture with the perfect gingerbread flavor.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process takes about 30 minutes. Once cooled, carefully lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired, and cut into squares. Your warm, inviting Simple Gingerbread Brownies are now ready to enjoy!

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What to Serve with Simple Gingerbread Brownies?

There’s nothing quite like the sweet and spicy aroma of gingerbread as you enjoy these delightful brownies, but let’s elevate your dessert experience!

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold vanilla ice cream harmonizes perfectly with the warm spices, creating a delightful contrast that melts in your mouth.
Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy complement to the rich brownies, making each bite feel indulgent and festive.
Spiced Chai Tea: The cozy flavors of spiced chai enhance the ginger and cinnamon notes in the brownies, creating a comforting beverage pairing.
Hot Chocolate: Rich, chocolatey hot cocoa brings a festive touch, with marshmallows adding an extra layer of decadence to your holiday treat.
Coffee: A warm cup of brewed coffee balances the sweetness of the brownies while enhancing the spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Pumpkin Pie: For a seasonal twist, serve with a slice of pumpkin pie to create a delicious duo that celebrates holiday flavors!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each brownie intensifies the sweetness and adds a lovely gooey texture that’s irresistible.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch, offering a contrast to the fudgy brownies and enhancing their flavor.

These pairings will create a warm, inviting spread, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in!

Expert Tips for Simple Gingerbread Brownies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before starting; this helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
Measure Spices Accurately: Be precise with your ginger and cinnamon measurements, as too much can lead to an overpowering flavor in your Simple Gingerbread Brownies.
Cool the Butter: Let your melted butter cool slightly before adding eggs. This prevents scrambling and keeps the texture creamy.
Check for Doneness: Start checking your brownies for doneness 5 minutes before the suggested bake time. They should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Let Them Cool: Allow the brownies to cool fully before cutting to ensure clean slices and prevent them from falling apart. Dust with confectioners’ sugar for an elegant finish.

These tips will help ensure your Simple Gingerbread Brownies turn out perfectly every time!

Simple Gingerbread Brownies Variations

Feel free to tweak these Simple Gingerbread Brownies to make them your own, creating delightful surprises in every bite!

Vegan Option: Swap regular eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy butter.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a rich, gooey twist or swirl melted chocolate into the batter before baking.
Nuts & Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delicious crunch that complements the chewy texture beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Boost the heat by incorporating a pinch of cayenne or a dash of cardamom for an exciting flavor profile.
Fruity Twist: Fold in 1 cup of diced dried fruit, such as cranberries or apricots, for a delightful sweet and tangy surprise.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over cooled brownies for a decadent topping that elevates the sweetness and richness.
Maple Syrup Substitute: Use 1/4 cup of maple syrup instead of molasses for a distinct flavor that’s equally lovely.

These Simple Gingerbread Brownies are just the beginning! If you’re on a roll with holiday treats, consider next trying out some delightful Red Velvet Brownies or bake a batch of Cheesecake Brownies Dessert for even more indulgence!

Make Ahead Options

These Simple Gingerbread Brownies are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your prepared baking dish and add an extra minute or two to the baking time to account for the cold temperature. If you prefer to make them even earlier, you can bake the brownies up to 3 days ahead of serving. Just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container to maintain their delightful chewy texture. Whichever option you choose, these brownies will remain just as delicious when it’s time for that sweet holiday treat!

How to Store and Freeze Simple Gingerbread Brownies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. These brownies improve in flavor after a day or two, making them even more enjoyable!
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze cut squares in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Perfect for quick snacks when cravings hit!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Topping them with ice cream enhances the experience!

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Simple Gingerbread Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Simple Gingerbread Brownies?
Choosing quality ingredients makes a world of difference in your brownies! Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and look for light brown sugar that feels moist and slightly sticky. For the freshest flavors, use room temperature eggs, and don’t shy away from good-quality vanilla extract—it enhances the overall taste. When it comes to spices, I recommend using fresh ginger if possible, as it lends a vibrant kick to your brownies.

How should I store my Simple Gingerbread Brownies?
After baking, let your brownies cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They get better with time, actually! If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before indulging in their chewy goodness.

Can I freeze my Simple Gingerbread Brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your brownies, cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the squares to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to snack, simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. You won’t regret having these seasonal treats on hand!

What are some common issues when making brownies and how can I avoid them?
A common issue is overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough brownies. To keep them chewy and fudgy, mix until just combined. Also, keep an eye on your baking time; start checking for doneness about 5 minutes before the timer goes off. Edges should set while the center remains slightly jiggly. Lastly, remember to let the brownies cool fully before cutting to achieve clean, beautiful slices!

Can I make Simple Gingerbread Brownies vegan or gluten-free?
Certainly! For a vegan version, you can substitute regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg) and use non-dairy butter. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. These adjustments will help everyone enjoy these cozy brownies!

Are there any allergy considerations for Simple Gingerbread Brownies?
Yes, if you are baking for someone with allergies, be sure to check label ingredients carefully. The typical allergens in this recipe are eggs, gluten, and dairy. For nut allergies, avoid adding any nuts. Utilizing alternatives for eggs and using gluten-free flour can cater to those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can partake in the delightful flavors of these brownies.

These Simple Gingerbread Brownies are not just delicious—they embody the spirit of the holiday season!