Old-Time Ginger Bars
Old-Time Ginger Bars are a nostalgic treat featuring warm spices, dates, and walnuts, offering a moist, flavorful dessert that pairs well with tea or coffee for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients: flour, salt, soda, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Beat eggs until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add sugar to eggs, beating continuously.
- Add molasses and sour cream; beat well.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Fold in chopped dates and English walnuts.
- Spread the batter evenly in a greased 15 x 10-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using fresh ginger instead of ground ginger. If you don't have sour cream, yogurt can be a great substitute. Make sure to fold in the dates and walnuts gently to keep the batter light. If you prefer a less dense bar, you can reduce the amount of molasses slightly. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover dates from other baking projects.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ginger bars warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or gatherings. For a delightful twist, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Homemade Pound Cake for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ginger bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold. The flavors will continue to develop as they sit, making them even more delicious over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Time Ginger Bars contains roughly 174 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 7g fat.
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 a different type of sweetener instead of molasses?
Yes, you can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile. If using honey, consider reducing the sugar slightly, as honey is naturally sweeter. The texture may also vary, so monitor the baking time closely.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, try using flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together.
How can I make these ginger bars more festive?
To make ginger bars more festive, consider adding chopped candied ginger or a sprinkle of crystallized ginger on top before baking. You can also incorporate a dash of vanilla extract or orange zest for a unique flavor twist. Adding a drizzle of icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can also elevate their presentation.
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).