Name: Gingerbread Brownies: A Cozy Holiday Treat You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable, reduce added salt.); 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (Can replace with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan option.); 1/2 cup Molasses (Blackstrap molasses provides a more robust taste.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can replace with gluten-free all-purpose flour.); 1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Make sure to use unsweetened.); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Regular table salt can be used but reduce the amount.); 1 teaspoon Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice, Cloves) (Freshly ground spices will yield a more aromatic profile.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For dusting on top for a festive look.); 1 cup Sugared Cranberries (Optional garnish for an elegant presentation.)

As I walked through the bustling holiday market, the irresistible scent of gingerbread filled the air, mingling with the sweet notes of chocolate. This nostalgic aroma inspired me to create the perfect festive dessert: Gingerbread Brownies. Combining the cozy warmth of traditional gingerbread with the decadent richness of chocolate, these brownies are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly simple to whip up. You can enjoy them warm from the oven or serve them later, adorned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of sugared cranberries for an elegant touch. Ready to take your holiday baking game to the next level? Let’s dive in and make these delicious gingerbread brownies that will surely become a seasonal favorite!

Why Are These Brownies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: These gingerbread brownies merge the warm spices of traditional gingerbread with rich chocolate, creating a flavor that’s both festive and comforting.

Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients, anyone can whip up these treats in under an hour. Perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress guests of all ages. Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle some chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Customize at Will: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for personal flair, or try out different spices like cardamom for a unique twist. You could even check out my recipe for Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks if you’re craving gingerbread flavors in a different format.

Perfect for Gifting: Pack these brownies for holiday gifts or bake a batch to take to your next festive gathering. Everyone loves a homemade treat!

Gingerbread Brownie Ingredients

For the Brownies
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure to the brownies; substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; use salted butter if unsalted is unavailable, but reduce added salt.
• Vegetable Oil – Contributes to the fudgy texture; can replace with melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan option.
• Molasses – Gives the brownies their gingerbread flavor and moisture; blackstrap molasses can provide a more robust taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can replace with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds chocolate flavor and bitterness; make sure to use unsweetened, not sweetened cocoa.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; regular table salt can be used but reduce the amount slightly.
• Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Allspice, Cloves) – Provide the warm gingerbread flavor; freshly ground spices will yield a more aromatic profile.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.

For Garnishing (Optional)
• Powdered Sugar – Adds a decorative touch when serving; use it for dusting on top for a festive look.
• Sugared Cranberries – Optional garnish for an elegant presentation; they provide a beautiful contrast to the rich brownies.

Now that you have gathered the ingredients for your Gingerbread Brownies, let’s move on to whipping up this festive delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take a 9” x 13” baking pan and grease it with cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation ensures your gingerbread brownies bake evenly and release effortlessly once they’re done.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, and molasses. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend these ingredients well for about 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy. The mixture should appear thick and glossy, creating a perfect base for your gingerbread brownies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, kosher salt, and your warm spices: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, ensuring your gingerbread brownies are infused with that delightful seasonal essence.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined, about 30 seconds. It’s important not to overmix, as this will maintain the fudgy texture of the brownies. Finally, stir in a splash of vanilla extract, which enhances the overall flavor, completing the batter for your gingerbread brownies.

Step 5: Pour Batter Into Pan
Carefully pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, ensuring all corners are filled. The batter should be thick but smooth, giving rise to lush, decadent gingerbread brownies once baked.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, turn the oven off and let the brownies sit inside for an additional 15 minutes. This method helps them remain moist and fudgy, achieving the perfect consistency that complements the gingerbread flavors.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the time is up, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is essential for achieving clean cuts. When ready, slice the brownies into squares and consider dusting them with powdered sugar or adding sugared cranberries for an elegant holiday presentation.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Brownies

Cozy up your festive gatherings with delightful accompaniments that elevate your chocolatey treat.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness balances the spices beautifully, creating a rich and indulgent experience. A scoop on warm brownies turns them into a decadent dessert.
Sugared Cranberries: Their tartness cuts through the sweetness of the brownies, adding a pop of color and festive flair that guests will love. Plus, they offer a delightful texture contrast.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this adds a luscious touch that melds with the warm spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dessert. Serve it on the side for dipping!
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: The invigorating minty flavor pairs perfectly with the rich brownies, making for a heartwarming holiday treat perfect for cold nights.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm notes of spices in chai echo those in the brownies, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s a delightful drink that invites guests to linger.
Chocolate Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache over your brownies not only enhances their chocolatey goodness but also gives a lovely visual appeal when serving on a platter.
Candied Ginger: For an extra zing, consider adding candied ginger as a topping or side. It intensifies the ginger flavor found in the brownies, creating a fascinating twist.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and enhance the rough texture, contrasting delightfully with the fudgy softness of the brownies. A tasteful garnish that provides added richness.

Gingerbread Brownies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and replacements to make the recipe truly your own!

Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and extra flavor. Nuts bring a delightful surprise and pair wonderfully with the chocolate and spices.
Vegan Option: Swap the eggs for 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg and use coconut oil instead of butter for a completely vegan brownie that doesn’t skimp on richness.
Spiced Twist: Experiment with cardamom or nutmeg to add an intriguing flavor layer. A dash of fresh spices can elevate the warming gingerbread experience to new heights.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to cater to gluten sensitivity without sacrificing taste or texture.
Chocolate Burst: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a fudgier brownie that chocolate lovers will adore. This added decadence is hard to resist!
Frosted Version: Top your brownies with a simple cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache for a festive touch. This decadent layer adds richness and sweetness to your gingerbread brownies.
Marshmallow Swirl: Add mini marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, toasted topping that creates a sweet contrast to the spiced brownies!
Herbal Infusion: For a refreshing twist, try adding a hint of peppermint extract to the batter. The festive flavor merges beautifully with the spicy notes for a holiday treat to remember!

Feel inspired to make these heavenly variations, and while you’re at it, you might also enjoy introducing gingerbread flavors into your breakfast with our cozy Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks. Let your culinary creativity shine through this holiday season!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Brownies

Clean Cuts: Use a long, non-serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This helps maintain the beautiful edges of your gingerbread brownies.
Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easier to lift out the brownies after baking. It prevents sticking and allows for neat, clean squares.
Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Cooling helps them firm up and makes cutting easier.
Ingredient Swap: Customize your gingerbread brownies by using brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor. Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately. Just refrigerate both mixtures; this keeps them fresh and helps enhance the flavors overnight. On baking day, simply combine them as instructed and pour into the baking pan. If you want to bake them ahead, feel free to make the brownies and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To maintain their fudginess, allow them to cool completely before covering. When it’s time to serve, just dust with powdered sugar or add sugared cranberries for an elegant touch, and enjoy these festive treats just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Brownies

Room Temperature: Store cooled gingerbread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating the brownies for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out.

Freezer: These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen gingerbread brownies, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fudgy warmth.

Gingerbread Brownies Recipe FAQs

What type of molasses should I use for gingerbread brownies?
For the best flavor in your gingerbread brownies, use unsulfured molasses. Blackstrap molasses can give a more robust taste, but it’s a bit bitter. If you prefer something milder, regular light molasses works beautifully and keeps the brownies sweet without overpowering the spices.

How should I store my gingerbread brownies?
To keep your gingerbread brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’re in a warmer climate, I recommend refrigerating them, wrapped tightly, where they can last up to a week without drying out.

Can I freeze my gingerbread brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and for a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

How do I troubleshoot if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your gingerbread brownies turn out too dry, it’s often due to overbaking. Make sure to bake only for 20 minutes, then turn off the oven and let them rest inside for an additional 15 minutes. You can also try adding a splash more of molasses or an egg next time, which can help maintain moisture and richness.

Can I make these brownies vegan-friendly?
Yes! You can make your gingerbread brownies vegan by substituting each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This keeps the brownie texture fudgy and delicious while staying plant-based.

Which nuts or spices can I add for variation?
Feel free to play with the recipe! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some cardamom or nutmeg along with the traditional ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for an aromatic twist to your gingerbread brownies.