Easy Gingerbread Brownies for the Holidays
Ready to discover a holiday dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds? Imagine rich chocolate brownies mixed with the warm, nostalgic flavors of gingerbread. That’s what these Easy Gingerbread Brownies offer—a classic favorite that also captures the holiday spirit!
This recipe combines a brownie mix with festive spices, making holiday treats special. You can make a batch in just 36 minutes. Plus, they’re easy to make and no fuss.
These Gingerbread Brownies are perfect for any gathering or festive treat. Especially ideal for any fall or winter holiday dessert table, even starting as early as Halloween! Of course, if you want make Halloween spookier, check out this other hauntingly delicious dessert idea here!
What Makes Gingerbread Brownies So Perfect for the Holidays?
Gingerbread brownies mix rich chocolate with festive spices, making them a standout holiday treat. They fill the kitchen with a cozy aroma, perfect for any gathering. This sweet treat is a must-have for holiday baking.
Each bite of these brownies brings out the essence of gingerbread. Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg make them a true holiday delight. The fudgy texture and warm spices make them hard to resist. Are you drooling yet?
Essential Ingredients for Gingerbread Brownies
Making gingerbread brownies is all about mixing flavors and textures. The blend of brownie mix and gingerbread spices creates a perfect treat for any holiday. Let’s look at what makes up this festive dessert.
Brownie Base Components
The brownie base is the heart of this recipe, with a rich chocolate taste. Here are the main brownie mix ingredients:
- 1 box dark chocolate brownie mix
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the best texture, follow the box’s instructions. Use more oil than water to get a fudgy brownie.
Gingerbread Swirl Ingredients
To add warm gingerbread flavors, mix these ingredients into the batter:
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
This spice mix makes a tasty swirl that goes well with the chocolate. It makes the brownies very tasty.
Optional Toppings and Variations
Make your brownies special with these toppings and variations:
- 4 tablespoons of holiday sprinkles for a festive look
- Powdered sugar dusting for a classic finish
- Use cookie cutters as stencils to create festive shapes before dusting (see image above)
- Serve with vanilla or ginger ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence
With these ingredients and toppings, your gingerbread brownies will be a hit at any holiday party. Or for more Halloween-themed desserts, see this collection of spooky sweet recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Gingerbread Brownies
Making gingerbread brownies is a fun process. They mix chocolate and gingerbread flavors, making a great holiday treat. Follow these Brownie Preparation Steps for the best results.
Preparing the Brownie Batter
First, heat your oven to 350°F. In a big bowl, mix the brownie mix, eggs, water, and oil as the package says. Make sure it’s smooth and ready for your brownies. You can add Mixing Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for more flavor.
Creating the Gingerbread Swirl
Then, mix molasses, melted butter, spices, and vanilla in a small bowl. Make sure to mix well so the flavors blend well with the brownie.
Baking and Cooling Tips
Grease a 13×9 inch pan and put in the brownie mix. Smooth it out. Then, add the gingerbread swirl on top and swirl it gently. Bake for 20-30 minutes until it’s lightly browned on top.
Let the brownies cool for 20 minutes before cutting. Follow these Baker Tips for a great experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or refrigerate for longer. These Cooling Brownies will be a hit at your holiday party.
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Gingerbread Brownies: Mixing Chocolate and Spices
Gingerbread brownies are a delightful mix of Chocolate and Spice Desserts. They blend rich chocolate with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger. This mix creates a dessert that looks great and tastes amazing, perfect for holiday gatherings.
When baked, the chocolate melts and the spices fill the air with a cozy aroma. This brings back memories of holiday fun. Each bite is soft and chewy, with a hint of spice that makes it a hit at parties.
To make it even better, add chocolate chips or a drizzle of dark chocolate on top. These touches add to the chocolatey taste while keeping the spice flavors in the forefront. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat. This makes them a great choice for holiday sharing.
| Nutritional Information | Per Brownie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 441 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 61 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Sugar | 45 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 71 mg |
| Sodium | 104 mg |
| Potassium | 363 mg |
| Vitamin A | 414 IU |
| Calcium | 79 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
These gingerbread brownies are a unique treat that everyone will love. They’re perfect for celebrating the holiday season with a delicious dessert.
Ways to Serve and Enjoy Your Gingerbread Brownies
Getting creative with Brownie Serving Ideas can make your holiday gatherings special. Gingerbread brownies are not just delicious but also perfect for festive presentations. With a few simple steps, you can turn your brownies into a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance, making your brownies look amazing. This is especially great for holidays, giving them a snowy look that matches the spices. Sprinkle powdered sugar just before serving to make your brownies look their best.
Using Cookie Cutters for Festive Shapes
Using cookie cutters adds a fun twist to your presentation. Cut brownies into shapes like stars or Christmas trees for a playful look. Finish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra festivity. This not only makes for creative dessert ideas but also captures the holiday spirit.
Adding Ice Cream or Whipped Cream
Serving warm gingerbread brownies with ice cream or whipped cream makes them even better. The mix of textures is delightful, especially in cold weather. Choose toppings like vanilla or cinnamon for flavors that go well with the spiced brownies.
Alternative Recipes for Gingerbread Brownies
Looking for different gingerbread brownie recipes can make your holiday dessert table stand out. These variations cater to different tastes and dietary needs. They add a special touch to festive gatherings.
Using Gingerbread Cake Mix
Using gingerbread cake mix is a simple way to make brownies. Just mix it with evaporated milk and melted butter. This method gives a unique texture and keeps the ginger flavor that’s so festive.
This recipe is quick, making it great for holiday baking. It’s perfect for adding to your festive treats.
Gluten-Free Options
For those who can’t eat gluten, there are tasty gingerbread brownie options. Gluten-free mixes use almond flour or coconut flour. Look for brands like King Arthur Flour or Bob’s Red Mill.
These mixes ensure everyone can enjoy delicious brownies. They offer a way to bake for different dietary needs.
Storing and Freezing Gingerbread Brownies
Keeping brownies fresh is key. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
If you want to freeze them, line your pan with parchment paper first. Cool the brownies, then wrap them well. They can stay fresh for up to six months in the freezer.
Why Baking with a Box Mix is a Time-Saver
Baking during the holiday season can be fun but takes a lot of time. Using a box mix makes it easier and quicker. Betty Crocker Gingerbread Cake & Cookie Mix is a perfect example. It’s a 14.5 oz box that gives you a tasty base for fast preparation and delicious results.
Most recipes need just a few simple ingredients. You’ll need 1/3 cup of evaporated milk, 1 stick of melted unsalted butter (1/2 cup), and 1 large egg yolk. This makes it easy, especially when you’re busy. The brownies bake in 25 minutes for a firm texture or 30 minutes for chewier ones.
Using an 8-inch square or 9-inch square pan makes the brownies thicker. This meets your preference without extra work. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. This way, they’re always ready for guests or holiday parties.
Adding your own twist to box mixes can make them even better. Try sprinkling in cinnamon or nutmeg, or adding nuts like walnuts or pecans. Quick Baking Tips suggest using colorful items like chocolate chips or M&Ms. This turns a simple mix into a special holiday treat.
Seasonal Tips for Making the Best Gingerbread Brownies
To make the perfect gingerbread brownies, pay attention to a few key details. These Holiday Baking Tips will help you make a treat that’s sure to delight at your holiday gatherings.
Start by measuring all ingredients accurately. Use an 8×8 metal baking pan lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleaning up a breeze. When mixing the batter, melt the butter with chocolate for a deep flavor.
It’s important to sift the dry ingredients before mixing. Mix sugar, molasses, and the gingerbread cake mix in a separate bowl. This ensures a smooth mix. Then, add two eggs and a splash of vanilla. Fold in the dry ingredients gently to keep the texture airy. You can also add chocolate chips if you like.
Preheat your oven to 350°F for baking. The brownies will take about 20-25 minutes to bake. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out a bit gooey. This means the brownies are moist and full of flavor.
After baking, let the brownies cool before refrigerating them for an hour or two. This step helps them reach the perfect texture and flavor. You can even add a glaze for an extra special touch.
By practicing these Best Brownie Techniques all year, you’ll get better at baking. Following these tips will make your gingerbread brownies a holiday favorite.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Melted Butter | 1 stick (1/2 cup) |
| Gingerbread Cake Mix | 14.5 oz |
| Evaporated Milk | 5 oz (1/3 cup) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
Related Holiday Dessert Ideas
As the holiday season comes near, it’s a great time to try new holiday desserts. You might enjoy making Hot Chocolate Cookies for a fun twist.
Whether you’re new to baking or experienced, there’s a recipe for you. From simple cookies to complex soufflé and trifle, each recipe comes with the right accessories. This holiday, make your dessert table shine with these vibrant options, alongside the beloved gingerbread brownies.
