Name: Gingerbread Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, melted; 1 ½ cups (300 g) light brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tablespoons molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 28 reviews

If you love the chewy richness of a classic brownie combined with the warm, spicy charm of gingerbread, then you’re about to fall head-over-heels for this Gingerbread Brownies Recipe. It’s the ultimate treat that marries that fudgy texture we all adore with ginger, cinnamon, and molasses to create a cozy, irresistible dessert perfect for any season or celebration. Whether you want to impress guests or just enjoy a special indulgence, these brownies bring the comforting flavors of gingerbread right into a simple, crowd-pleasing bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a thick, smooth, light brown batter spread unevenly inside. The batter has a dense texture with visible small air pockets and slight unevenness where it has been stirred. A woman's hand is holding the bowl on the left side, showing part of the fingers wrapped around it. The scene is well lit, highlighting the glossy surface of the batter and the transparency of the bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Gingerbread Brownies Recipe are refreshingly straightforward but essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. Each one plays a unique role, from the richness of butter to the spark of warm spices, ensuring every bite is a warm hug.

Unsalted butter (1 cup / 227 g): Melted to add moistness and richness for that fudgy brownie texture.
Light brown sugar (1 ½ cups / 300 g): Packed for sweetness with a subtle molasses undertone that enhances the gingerbread flavor.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): The binding agents that add structure and contribute to the chewy consistency.
Molasses (2 tablespoons): The star that imparts that unmistakable deep, spiced gingerbread taste.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out the spices beautifully.
All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups / 312.5 g): Provides the sturdy base, balancing the richness without making the brownies cakey.
Ground ginger (1 tablespoon): Brings that signature gingerbread zing and a lovely hint of spice.
Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and enhances the depth of the ginger flavor.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): A touch to help the brownies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Elevates all flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting): Optional finishing touch for a delicate, snowy look and gentle sweetness.

How to Make Gingerbread Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This ensures your brownies bake evenly and lift out easily once cool, making slicing a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Stir until well blended and smooth—this mixture is the foundation that creates that irresistible fudgy texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Molasses, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by molasses and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture, richness, and that unmistakable gingerbread warmth.

Step 4: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, and kosher salt thoroughly. This step ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout your brownies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix here—you want a uniform batter that stays dense for that chewy brownie feel.

Step 6: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking near the end—the brownies are ready when the edges are set, and the center is just firm without jiggle. If you opt for a larger 9×13-inch pan, reduce baking time to 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Let the brownies cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar. Cooling not only sets the texture but also lets those cozy flavors deepen—then slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Gingerbread Brownies Recipe

The image shows two square brown cake slices on a white plate, each slice covered with a light dusting of white powdered sugar. The cakes have a moist and slightly crumbly texture. In the background, there is another white plate with more cake slices and a glass of white milk to the right side. The setting is on a white marbled surface, and a white cloth with red stripes is partially visible in the lower right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar adds a lovely festive touch, reminiscent of fresh snow. You can also top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to bring an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve these Gingerbread Brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a perfect contrast of warm spices and creamy coolness. A cup of hot tea or mulled cider pairs beautifully, highlighting the gingerbread spices and making it a perfect cozy combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, layer small cubes of these brownies in clear glass jars with whipped cream and crushed ginger snaps to create an easy gingerbread trifle. Or serve them alongside roasted nuts and candied ginger for a delightful holiday dessert platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Gingerbread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, preserving that lovely gingerbread flavor without drying out.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready to thaw when a craving strikes.

Reheating

To warm frozen or refrigerated brownies, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or briefly heat in a low oven until just warmed through. This brings back a freshly baked warmth that’s hard to resist.

FAQs

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Absolutely! Dark brown sugar will deepen the molasses flavor and give your Gingerbread Brownies Recipe a richer taste, which many people love for a more robust gingerbread experience.

What if I don’t have molasses on hand?

Molasses is crucial for that authentic gingerbread flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or dark corn syrup for sweetness and moisture, though the flavor might be a bit milder.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Sure! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep that chewy texture in your gingerbread brownies.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The edges will look set and start to pull away slightly from the pan, and the center should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! Walnuts, pecans, or crystallized ginger chunks complement the warm spices beautifully. Just fold in about ½ to 1 cup of your preferred mix-ins after combining the wet and dry ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Brownies Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it hits that perfect sweet spot of chewy brownie goodness and nostalgic gingerbread spice. It’s such a joy to bake and share, adding a little extra warmth and sweetness to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and bring that same cozy delight to your table—happy baking!