Immerse yourself in the festive season with these Decadent Gingerbread Bars, topped with a Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting. This gluten-free delight combines the warm, spicy flavors of traditional gingerbread with the creamy, sweet touch of cream cheese frosting, all while using almond flour as a base for those seeking a gluten-free option. Each bite offers a moist, flavorful experience that perfectly captures the essence of holiday cheer.
Why You'll Love This:
What's not to love about a dessert that brings the holiday spirit to life? These gingerbread bars are soft, moist, and packed with the comforting spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, balanced by the creamy sweetness of the frosting. The use of almond flour not only makes them gluten-free but also adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the rich spices. It's a holiday treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.
Perfect Occasion:
These gingerbread bars are the ideal treat for any holiday gathering, from Christmas parties to cozy family get-togethers. They're also a wonderful homemade gift idea, wrapped in festive packaging to spread some edible cheer. Whether you're looking to impress at a bake sale or just want to enjoy a festive treat at home, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra festive touch, top your gingerbread bars with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles. Consider using red and green for Christmas, or blue and white for a snowy effect. For a more elegant finish, a dusting of cinnamon or grated nutmeg adds both beauty and a hint of extra spice.
- Ingredients for Gingerbread Bars:
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups of almond flour
- Spices:
- 1.5 teaspoons of ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1.5 teaspoons of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Blend the cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until smooth. Incorporate the brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the almond flour, all spices, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Spread this batter evenly into your prepared pan.
- Bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool in the pan for 20 minutes before frosting.
- Ingredients for Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 4 cups of powdered sugar
- Frosting Instructions:
- Whip together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled gingerbread bars and garnish with your choice of festive sprinkles.
Enjoy these delightful gingerbread bars, a perfect blend of holiday spices and creamy frosting, sure to bring joy and warmth to your festive celebrations.