Ginger Bars
A rich, spiced ginger bar with deep molasses flavor, crunchy nuts, and warm cinnamon, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the dark brown sugar, egg, soft butter, molasses, and vanilla until well combined.
- Sift the flour with soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves; add alternately with milk to the wet mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch square pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan, then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the dark brown sugar with light brown sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with raisins for added texture. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you want a spicier kick, you can increase the ginger or cinnamon slightly to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These ginger bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. For a unique twist, serve them alongside a warm cup of chai or coffee as a cozy snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ginger bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Bars contains roughly 295 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just be aware that this may change the texture slightly, making them denser.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly. Brown sugar mixed with a small amount of water can also mimic molasses' consistency.
How do I know when the ginger bars are done baking?
The ginger bars are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges should be slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan, and the top will have a nice golden color.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).