Frosted gingerbread brownies

⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 16 squares

📝 Ingredients List

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the frosting:
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• 8×8 inch square baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric hand mixer or whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, and molasses until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, beating until the mixture is well-combined and glossy. ✨
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined. Do not overmix!
5. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
6. While the brownies cool completely, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Frost your cooled brownies and slice them into 16 squares. Enjoy! 😋

💡 Pro Tips Section

• Storage: Store your frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Room Temperature: For the best texture, let them sit on the counter for 15 minutes before serving.
• Easy Slicing: Use a plastic knife or a warm, clean blade to get perfectly sharp edges on your brownie squares.

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for an added crunch.
• Spiced Glaze: If you prefer a thinner topping, whisk together powdered sugar and milk with a dash of ginger for a simple glaze.

FAQ

Can I freeze these brownies? Yes! Freeze them unfrosted, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Frost them once thawed.

Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.