Learn how to combine the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies for a delicious holiday dessert!
The holiday season is known for warm, spicy flavors and comforting desserts. In addition, two of the most loved treats during this time are gingerbread and brownies. However, what happens when you mix these two classic desserts into one? The result is a gingerbread brownie, a dessert that combines the best of both. Thus, in this article, we’ll go through how to make this unique treat, explore different variations, and explain why gingerbread brownies are perfect for your holiday dessert table.
Table of contents
What is a Gingerbread Brownie?
A gingerbread brownie is a delicious mix of two popular holiday treats: gingerbread and brownies. Gingerbread is known for its warm spices—ginger, cinnamon, and molasses—while brownies are known for their rich, moist texture. Therefore, when combined, they make a dessert that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
The idea of a gingerbread brownie is not only creative but also brings together the best qualities of both desserts in one treat. In addition, the gingerbread flavor blends into the brownie batter, giving it a rich, spicy taste without taking away from the gooey chocolate texture. Whether you’re a gingerbread lover or a brownie fan, this dessert is sure to please everyone and is perfect for a cozy holiday gathering.
The Key Ingredients for Gingerbread Brownies
To make the perfect gingerbread brownie, you’ll need a mix of key ingredients that provide the right balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flour: Use regular flour for a standard brownie base. On the other hand, for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free flour mix works well.
- Butter: Unsalted butter makes the texture smooth and rich.
- Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture, plus it helps with the gingerbread flavor.
- Molasses: A key ingredient in gingerbread, it adds richness and a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- Spices: Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create that classic gingerbread taste. You can adjust how much of each you use depending on how spicy you want your brownies.
- Cocoa Powder: This adds the chocolate taste that complements the spices.
- Eggs: Eggs provide the structure and moisture for the batter.
- Chocolate Chips: For added richness, fold in some chocolate chips.
- Baking Powder/Soda: These are used to help the brownies rise to the right level of moist and fudgy.
Looking for other cozy holiday desserts? Try this Mounds Cake Recipe for a chocolatey twist on holiday baking.
For dietary alternatives, you can use dairy-free butter and plant-based eggs if you’re making a vegan gingerbread brownie.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Gingerbread Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Then, add the molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until well blended.
Want a healthier holiday treat? Check out these Whole Wheat Pancakes with Fresh Fruit for a lighter festive breakfast idea.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and baking powder.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the batter comes together. Next, stir in the chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The top should be slightly cracked.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the gingerbread brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Moreover, serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Gingerbread Brownie Variations to Try
While the classic gingerbread brownie is delicious on its own, there are plenty of fun ways to elevate this festive treat and make it even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for extra crunch, a gooey caramel twist, or a touch of elegance, these creative variations will take your gingerbread brownies to the next level:
1. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
For a satisfying texture contrast, fold in chopped nuts like:
- Walnuts: Earthy and slightly bitter, pairing perfectly with the molasses.
- Pecans: Buttery and mild, adding a softer crunch.
- Hazelnuts: Rich and nutty, complementing the warm spices beautifully.
Mix about 1/2 cup of your preferred nuts into the batter before baking. You can also sprinkle some on top just before baking for an eye-catching finish.
2. Gingerbread Frosting for a Spicy Finish
Take your brownies up a notch with a gingerbread-spiced frosting that adds extra holiday flair. Try this simple frosting recipe:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Beat all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Once the brownies have cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. For a festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or crushed gingerbread cookies on top.
3. Caramel Swirl for Extra Gooeyness
For a rich, decadent twist, swirl caramel sauce into the batter before baking:
- Prepare the brownie batter as usual and pour it into the pan.
- Drizzle about 1/4 cup of caramel sauce on top of the batter.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the caramel into the batter gently.
The caramel adds a buttery sweetness and gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the warm gingerbread spices.
4. White Chocolate Drizzle for a Sophisticated Touch
White chocolate is a fantastic addition if you’re looking to balance the bold spices with a creamy, sweet element.
- White Chocolate Chips: Stir 1/2 cup into the batter before baking.
- Drizzle: Melt 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled brownies.
The smooth, sweet white chocolate creates a striking contrast against the dark, spiced brownie base. You could also sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the drizzle for a peppermint gingerbread twist!
5. Dark Chocolate Lovers’ Twist
If you’re all about rich, intense chocolate flavors, try incorporating dark chocolate into your gingerbread brownies:
- Replace 1/4 cup of cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate for an even fudgier texture.
- Add dark chocolate chunks instead of standard chocolate chips for a bold bite.
Dark chocolate’s bitterness pairs beautifully with the molasses and warm spices.
6. Festive Mix-Ins for Holiday Charm
Add a pop of color and festive cheer with fun holiday mix-ins:
- Dried Cranberries: For a tart contrast to the rich chocolate.
- Crushed Candy Canes: For a peppermint gingerbread combo.
- Sprinkles: Holiday-themed sprinkles for a fun and colorful finish.
Simply fold these mix-ins into the batter or use them as a decorative topping after baking.
7. Gingerbread Cheesecake Brownies
For the ultimate holiday indulgence, turn your brownies into a cheesecake masterpiece:
- Prepare your gingerbread brownie batter and pour it into the pan.
- Whisk together:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and swirl gently.
- Bake as directed.
The creamy cheesecake balances the spices beautifully, making it perfect for special holiday celebrations.
If you love experimenting with flavors, try enhancing your holiday dishes with these Best Chicken Seasoning Blends for savory ideas that balance the sweetness of your desserts.
Final Tip: Mix and Match!
Don’t be afraid to get creative by combining multiple variations. Imagine gingerbread cheesecake brownies with a caramel swirl—the possibilities are endless!
These ideas will help you transform your classic gingerbread brownies into a personalized holiday masterpiece everyone will rave about. Let me know if you need any more festive baking inspiration!
Why Gingerbread Brownies Are Perfect for the Holidays
The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy a gingerbread brownie. The warm spices of gingerbread blend perfectly with the comfort of brownies, making them an excellent choice for festive gatherings. Their rich flavor and moist texture capture the spirit of winter and the holidays, making them a favorite at parties, family dinners, or as a homemade gift. Plus, their versatility—whether enjoyed as-is or with a creative twist—makes gingerbread brownies a standout holiday dessert.
How to Store Gingerbread Brownies
Storing Gingerbread Brownies for Freshness
Store any leftover gingerbread brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month.
How to Serve Gingerbread Brownies
These brownies are great on their own, but you can serve them with toppings for a special treat. Try:
- Whipped cream or ice cream
- A dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder
- A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce
If you’re planning a holiday spread, consider pairing these brownies with this classic Southern Cornbread Recipe for a perfect festive balance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the three types of brownies?
The three main types of brownies are:
Fudgy Brownies: Dense, rich, and gooey with a high fat-to-flour ratio, often made with more butter and chocolate.
Cakey Brownies: Light, airy, and soft with a texture closer to cake due to a higher flour and leavening agent content.
Chewy Brownies: A balance between fudgy and cakey, often made with a mix of melted butter and cocoa, giving a slightly chewy texture.
Why are gingerbread called gingerbread?
The term gingerbread originates from the Old French word gingembrat, derived from the Latin zingiber, meaning ginger. Initially, it referred to preserved ginger treats but evolved over time to describe baked goods made with ginger and spices. Medieval European gingerbread was often made with honey and spices for preservation and flavor, eventually becoming the spiced cookies and cakes known today.
Does gingerbread harden?
Yes, gingerbread can harden over time, especially if it’s left exposed to air. Gingerbread cookies or houses are often baked to be firm so they can hold their shape for decoration. However, if gingerbread is baked for consumption (like soft gingerbread cake), it’s usually kept moist and tender. The hardening occurs as moisture evaporates from the baked goods.
What is a blondie vs brownie?
Blondie: A blondie is a bar dessert similar to a brownie but made without cocoa powder or melted chocolate. It has a rich, butterscotch-like flavor due to brown sugar and vanilla being the primary flavor components.
Brownie: A brownie contains cocoa powder or melted chocolate, giving it a deep chocolate flavor. Brownies can be fudgy, cakey, or chewy, depending on the ingredients and method used.
The main difference lies in the absence of chocolate in blondies, making them lighter in color and caramel-flavored compared to the chocolatey richness of brownies.
Conclusion
Gingerbread brownies are a delicious holiday treat that brings together the best of spicy gingerbread and rich, moist brownies. Whether served as a festive dessert or gifted during the holidays, they’re sure to impress. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like the Mounds Cake and Whole Wheat Pancakes for more holiday inspiration!