For the Bars: – ½ cup butter (softened) – ½ cup brown sugar – ¼ cup molasses – 1 egg – 1 tsp vanilla extract – 1½ cups all-purpose flour – 1 tsp ground ginger – ½ tsp cinnamon – ¼ tsp nutmeg – ¼ tsp cloves – ½ tsp baking soda – ¼ tsp salt For the Frosting: – 4 oz cream cheese (softened) – ¼ cup butter (softened) – 1½ cups powdered sugar – ½ tsp vanilla extract
1
Cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in molasses, egg, and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk dry ingredients, then combine with wet mix.
2
Spread dough evenly into a greased 9x9-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes, or until set. Let cool completely before frosting.
3
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
4
Spread frosting evenly over cooled bars. Garnish with holiday sprinkles, crushed cookies, or a light dusting of cinnamon, if desired.
5
Cut into squares and serve. These bars are soft, warmly spiced, and topped with creamy frosting—perfect for holiday cookie trays or parties.