Spiced Chewy Gingerbread Brownies

These spiced chewy gingerbread brownies bring a cozy warmth to any dessert table. The blend of molasses and warming spices makes them a perfect treat for holidays or chilly evenings when you want something a little special yet comforting.

I first made these brownies when I wanted a gingerbread twist on classic brownies. They quickly became a favorite for the season and a sweet staple in my house.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: for richness and moisture pick fresh unsalted butter from the fridge for a pure creamy taste
• Granulated sugar: balances the deep molasses sweetness use regular white sugar for classic texture
• Molasses: gives that signature gingerbread flavor look for dark molasses for the richest taste
• Large eggs: bind the ingredients and add structure fresh large eggs at room temperature mix better
• All-purpose flour: forms the base for chewy brownies use sifted flour to avoid lumps
• Ground ginger: for bold spicy warmth select fresh, fragrant ground ginger for best aroma
• Ground cinnamon: adds a sweet and woody flavor check the freshness for a lively spice note
• Ground cloves and nutmeg: contribute subtle warmth use sparingly or the dish can get too intense
• Baking soda: ensures the brownies rise just enough without being cake-like check the expiry for leavening power
• Salt: enhances all the flavors balance with fine salt for even mixing
• Boiling water: makes the batter smooth and helps dissolve the molasses for chewiness use freshly boiled water straight from the kettle

Instructions

Preheat And Prepare Pan:

Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 Celsius. Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray for easy release and to prevent sticking.

Melt Butter And Combine Sugars:

In a large saucepan on low heat, melt the butter gently. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar and molasses until fully combined creating a rich dark base.

Incorporate Eggs:

Let this mixture cool slightly so you do not cook the eggs. Beat in eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly after each to build a smooth batter.

Sift Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt to avoid clumps and ensure even spice distribution.

Mix Dry And Wet Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined to avoid tough brownies.

Add Boiling Water:

Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir until your batter is smooth and uniform this step melts any remaining sugar crystals and keeps the texture chewy.

Transfer To Pan And Bake:

Pour and spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan. Bake on the middle rack for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

Cool And Serve:

Remove from oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This helps them set and makes slicing neat.

I remember making these brownies with my kids each December and the house smelling like a spice market. Those smells bring back the best memories of cozy family time.

Storage tips

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container on the counter up to three days for peak freshness. For longer storage wrap tightly and freeze up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge then bring to room temperature for best texture.

Ingredient swaps

Butter can be replaced with coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist For a gluten-free version use a 1 to 1 gluten-free baking flour but expect a slightly different texture Try adding orange zest or crystallized ginger pieces for extra brightness and chew

Serving ideas

Brownies are delicious plain or dusted lightly with powdered sugar Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert A drizzle of warm caramel or a dollop of whipped cream complements the spices beautifully

These gingerbread brownies bring warmth and festive flavor enriched by the perfect chewy texture. Enjoy crafting this holiday favorite with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What spices are used in these gingerbread brownies?

The brownies feature ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, creating a warm and aromatic spice blend.

→ How does molasses affect the texture and flavor?

Molasses adds depth with its rich sweetness and contributes to the chewy, moist texture of the brownies.

→ Can I adjust the level of spice in the brownies?

Yes, you can increase or reduce spices or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat.

→ What is the purpose of boiling water in the batter?

Boiling water helps smooth the batter, ensuring a uniform texture and moist crumb.

→ How should these brownies be stored to maintain freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them soft and flavorful.