I’ll be the first to admit, I wasn’t always the biggest fan of gingerbread growing up. I associated the baked good with a dry, crumbly texture and an over-spiced taste. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve experienced the deliciousness that is fresh gingerbread, and I’ve never gone back to the store-bought stuff. These Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the pinnacle of what all gingerbread should aspire to be. Over the top? Maybe, but one taste, and you’ll be on my level!

With brown sugar, molasses, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon, these bars have a rich, earthy flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. And don’t even get me started on the cream chees frosting. Delish. See how it all comes together in the video below!

To get started on this festive holiday treat, preheat the oven to 350F and place oven rack in the middle position. Prepare a 9×13 jelly roll pan with non-stick spray and set it aside. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

Using a stand mixer, or a large bowl with a handheld mixer, cream together butter, sugars, vanilla, and molasses until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the egg and mix until combined. Add dry ingredients and pulse, mixing until thoroughly combined.

Evenly spread dough into prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Set the pan on a wire rack to cool completely.

While the bars are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Cream together cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until smooth and creamy. Frost the cooled cookie bars and top with sprinkles!

Not only are these Gingerbread Cookie Bars festive and perfect for any holiday party, but they are absolutely mouth-watering. You may want to bring a double batch for your next party. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!! Get the full ingredient list and step-by-step instructions below.