“`html
If you’re dreaming of a festive treat that’s bursting with holiday cheer, look no further than this Peppermint Ginger Bars with Buttercream Frosting Recipe. These bars are a delightful blend of warm, spicy ginger and nutmeg aromas perfectly balanced by the cool, refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes. The rich, molasses-infused batter bakes into tender, chewy bars that get even better topped with a luscious, creamy buttercream frosting studded with peppermint pieces. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or gifting sweet homemade joy, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a treasured seasonal favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just simple, essential ingredients that work together to create the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Each component plays a vital role: from the buttery richness to the warming spices and that peppermint pop which makes these bars unforgettable.
- Butter (2/3 cup plus 3/4 cup for frosting): Provides a creamy base, adds moisture, and makes the frosting silky smooth.
- Brown sugar (1 & 3/4 cups): Adds a deep caramel flavor and keeps the bars tender.
- Molasses (1/4 cup): Gives a rich, robust sweetness and that classic gingerbread depth.
- Eggs (2): Bind everything together and provide structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons plus 1 & 1/2 teaspoons for frosting): Enhances all the other flavors with a sweet, floral note.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Gives the bars their body and ideal texture.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) and baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Help the bars rise to just the right fluffiness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon for frosting): Balances sweetness and heightens the spices.
- Nutmeg (1 teaspoon) and cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Warm spices that add cozy flavor.
- Lightly Dried Ginger (4 teaspoons): Boosts the spicy ginger flavor for those who love a kick. Powdered ginger works too!
- Crushed candy canes (2/3 cup plus extra for frosting): Creates a cooling peppermint surprise both inside the bars and on top!
- Powdered sugar (2 & 1/2 cups): Forms the sweet, fluffy base of the buttercream frosting.
- Milk (2–3 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting to perfect spreadable consistency.
How to Make Peppermint Ginger Bars with Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 9×13 inch glass pan with parchment paper or foil. If you use foil, a quick spray with nonstick spray ensures the bars come out cleanly without sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter Until Fluffy
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter for 1 to 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key for creating a tender crumb, so don’t rush it and be sure to scrape the bowl sides as you go!
Step 3: Sweeten With Brown Sugar
Add in the brown sugar and beat again until the mixture is silky and well combined. This melding of butter and sugar lays the foundation for rich, caramel notes in the bars.
Step 4: Mix In Molasses, Eggs, and Vanilla
Next, stir in the molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat well, making sure to scrape the sides so every drop of flavor is fully incorporated and the batter becomes beautifully smooth.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Then crush about 8 candy canes in a food processor or by placing them in a ziplock bag and pounding with a rolling pin. Add the crushed candy canes along with the lightly dried ginger to the dry ingredients and whisk again. This blend infuses the bars with warm spice and surprising bursts of peppermint.
Step 6: Bring Batter Together
Pour the dry ingredients into the butter mixture and stir just until combined. This keeps the bars tender rather than dense — a light touch is all you need.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 27 to 28 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake because these bars are best when slightly fudgy inside, similar to brownies.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely. This step is essential so the buttercream frosting won’t melt when spread.
Step 9: Make the Buttercream Frosting
While your bars cool, beat 3/4 cup butter until smooth and creamy (this can take a few minutes, especially if your butter is cold).
Step 10: Sweeten the Frosting
Add 1 cup of powdered sugar and the vanilla extract to the butter and beat until incorporated and fluffy.
Step 11: Finish the Frosting
Add the remaining powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, then beat vigorously. Adjust with an extra tablespoon of milk or powdered sugar if needed to get a perfect, spreadable consistency. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl to make sure everything is well mixed.
Step 12: Frost and Decorate
Spread the luscious frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Quickly sprinkle 3 to 4 crushed candy canes on top for a festive crunch, or fold them right into the frosting for an all-over peppermint surprise. Now, grab a plate and dive into these festive bars!
How to Serve Peppermint Ginger Bars with Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes or finely chopped crystallized ginger on top just before serving. Fresh mint leaves work beautifully too, adding a subtle green contrast and an herbal brightness that complements the peppermint.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or rich hot chocolate to amplify the cozy holiday flavors. For a lighter option, serve them alongside vanilla whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a decadent twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into festive shapes using cookie cutters for a holiday party platter, or layer them in a clear glass trifle bowl with whipped cream and crushed peppermint for a show-stopping dessert display. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with red ribbon also makes a lovely homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigeration is a good option—just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer-safe container. To thaw, leave them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. Frost after thawing if possible, as freezing with frosting can slightly change its texture.
Reheating
If you like your bars slightly warm, gently heat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Warming enhances the spices and softens the buttercream just enough for a melt-in-your-mouth experience without making it too soft or runny.
FAQs
Can I use fresh ginger instead of dried ginger?
Fresh ginger has a much stronger and more pungent flavor than dried ginger, so it’s best to stick with lightly dried or powdered ginger in this recipe to maintain the right balance and texture.
What if I don’t have molasses?
Molasses lends a rich depth to these bars, but you can substitute with dark corn syrup or honey in a pinch. The flavor will change slightly but it will still be delicious.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might be a touch different, but the flavor will shine through perfectly.
How do I store bars with the buttercream frosting?
Because of the buttercream, it’s best to store frosted bars in a single layer in an airtight container, refrigerated if you plan to keep them for more than a day or two. Let them warm to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I use peppermint extract instead of candy canes?
You can add a few drops of peppermint extract to the frosting if you want an extra peppermint punch, but the crushed candy canes also add a wonderful crunch and visual appeal that extract alone can’t replicate.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Ginger Bars with Buttercream Frosting Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both nostalgic and fresh, warming you up with cozy spices while delighting your palate with cool peppermint surprises. I promise once you bake and taste these bars, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. So go ahead, whip up a batch, share the love, and enjoy every bite of this fabulously festive dessert!
“`
