Delicious Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) to Savor

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Leonardo Recipes Team

On a chilly evening, when the air tinged with the scent of pineinvites us indoors, I found myself craving something warm and comforting. That s when my eyes landed on a jar of molasses tucked away in the pantry, igniting a memory of the delicious, spiced treats of my childhood gingerbread cookies! But, looking for a fun twist, I decided to whip up some Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) instead.

Picture soft, chewy bars infused with aromatic spices, topped with an airy frosting that complements the deep, rich flavors perfectly. These cookie bars are not just a delight to your palate; they also invite nostalgia and warmth into your home. Ideal for sharing at holiday gatherings or enjoying during cozy nights in, they come together quickly and easily, making them the perfect antidote to fast-food monotony. Let s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe that s bound to impress!

Why Love These Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires just 10 minutes of prep time and a few straightforward steps, making it accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned bakers.

Delightful flavors abound: The blend of warming spices like cinnamon and ginger creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste, reminiscent of holiday cheer.

Vegan-friendly indulgence: Enjoy all the classic flavors without the eggs or dairy, allowing everyone to savor these bars guilt-free.

Perfect for sharing: These cookie bars are an instant crowd-pleaser, whether at festive gatherings or cozy family nights everyone will love grabbing a slice!

Versatile options: Feel free to customize your frosting or sprinkle choices for any occasion, ensuring they are as unique as your celebrations.

With all these reasons, it s clear why these Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) should be the next treat you bake!

Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars Ingredients

Here s everything you need to create delightful Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan).

For the Cookie Bars

• Flax egg 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) acts as a perfect egg replacer for moisture.
• Vegan butter 1/2 cup provides that rich, buttery flavor without dairy.
• Brown sugar 1 cup adds deep sweetness and a hint of molasses undertone.
• Molasses 1/4 cup brings a warm, earthy flavor that s essential in gingerbread.
• Vanilla extract 1 tsp enhances all the delightful spices and balances the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour 2 cups (use gluten-free if needed) ensures the bars have that soft, chewy texture.
• Ground cinnamon 2 tsp contributes a classic aroma and flavor that makes gingerbread irresistible.
• Ground ginger 1 tsp amplifies the spiced profile, giving it that signature ginger kick.
• Baking soda 1 tsp helps the bars rise to fluffy perfection.
• Baking powder 1/2 tsp ensures a light and tender crumb.
• Salt 1/2 tsp balances out the sweetness with a touch of savory.
• Ground cloves 1/2 tsp introduces a warm complexity that s perfect for the holiday season.
• Ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp adds a hint of nutty freshness that rounds out the spice blend.

For the Frosting

• Vegan butter 1/4 cup (for frosting) creates a creamy base for that luscious topping.
• Powdered sugar 1 + 1/2 cups, sifted provides a sweet finish that s essential for frostings.
• Vanilla extract 1 tsp (for frosting) adds depth and complements the cookie flavors beautifully.
• Plant-based milk 2 4 tbsp, as needed, helps achieve the desired frosting consistency; just add a little at a time.

How to Make Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars

1. Create the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Set it aside for about 10 minutes until it thickens into a gel-like consistency.

2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a square baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.

3. Beat the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 1/2 cup of vegan butter and 1 cup of brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take around 2 minutes.

4. Add wet ingredients: Incorporate the flax egg, 1/4 cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.

5. Mix in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour (2 cups), cinnamon (2 tsp), ginger (1 tsp), baking soda (1 tsp), baking powder (1/2 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), cloves (1/2 tsp), and nutmeg (1/4 tsp). Mix just until the flour is evenly incorporated; be careful not to overmix.

6. Transfer the batter: Pour the gingerbread batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the base.

7. Bake the bars: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

8. Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the remaining 1/4 cup of vegan butter with a mixer until it becomes soft and creamy.

9. Combine frosting ingredients: Add in the sifted powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth, adding 2-4 tablespoons of plant-based milk as needed to achieve your desired frosting consistency.

10. Frost the bars: Once cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the gingerbread cookie bars. Sprinkle with cinnamon or festive sprinkles for an extra touch. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars

• Perfect Flax Egg: When making your flax egg, let it sit for a full 10 minutes. This ensures it thickens properly, mimicking the binding quality of an egg.

• Soft Butter: Ensure your vegan butter is room temperature; this will help it blend with the brown sugar smoothly, creating a light and fluffy texture for your cookie bars.

• Don t Overmix: Mixing the dry ingredients until just incorporated is key for tender bars. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough cookie bars nobody wants that!

• Check for Doneness: Start checking your bars at 16 minutes. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for perfect soft bars.

• Customize Your Frosting: Add additional flavors like almond extract or cocoa powder for a unique twist on the vegan frosting. Remember to adjust plant-based milk to reach your desired consistency.

With these tips, your Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) will be sure to impress!

Make Ahead Options

These Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie base up to 24 hours in advance, baking it and letting it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. For optimal texture, keep the bars in the refrigerator until you re ready to frost. On the day you plan to serve, simply whip up the frosting and spread it on top for a fresh, delightful finish. This way, your bars will taste just as delicious as they would if made entirely on the day of serving, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Allow the bars to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain softness.

Fridge: To increase freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: Warm the thawed bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a cozy treat perfectly soft and ready to be savored again!

Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to put your creative spin on these bars as you explore delightful variations and substitutions!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same soft texture.
  Transforming these bars with a gluten-free option ensures everyone can partake in the deliciousness.

• Different Sweeteners: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a mild twist on sweetness.
  This substitution infuses a unique flavor while keeping the bars delightfully sugary.

• Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
  Adding nuts not only enhances the taste but creates a lovely contrast to the soft bars.

• Spice it Up: Increase the ground ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of warmth.
  Just a dash of spice can elevate your cookie bars, making them exciting and memorable.

• Frosting Flavors: Experiment with the frosting by incorporating a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
  Rich and creamy cocoa frosting complements the gingerbread beautifully, making each bite divine.

• Fruity Fun: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples into the batter for a fruity burst.
  Adding fruit brings an unexpected yet delightful tang that balances perfectly with the spices.

• Layered Delights: Create a layered effect by splitting the batter and layering with a vegan cream cheese frosting.
  This playful approach not only looks appealing but elevates the flavor profile, creating a truly decadent treat.

• Chill and Serve: Try refrigerating the bars before frosting for a cooler, refreshing twist that s perfect for snacking!
  Chilled bars add a delightful twist to your gingerbread experience perfect for warm gatherings!

What to Serve with Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan)?

Perfect for warming up chilly nights, these cookie bars are a delightful sweetness waiting to be paired with complementary flavors.

• Spiced Chai Latte: The cinnamon and ginger in this warm drink enhance the holiday flavors in the bars while adding a cozy touch.

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the chewy cookie bars, creating a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.

• Fruit Compote: A tangy cranberry or apple compote on the side brightens the dish, adding a fresh twist to the rich, spiced flavors.

• Nutty Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a rich hot chocolate adorned with crushed nuts for a crunchy sidekick; together, they create a symphony of festive flavors.

• Ginger Tea: This aromatic tea pairs well, enhancing the sweet and spicy notes of the gingerbread while providing a soothing, warming effect.

• Holiday Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the bars, making every bite feel light and invigorating.

With these delightful accompaniments, your Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) can shine even brighter on your table!

Frosted Gingerbread Cookie Bars (Vegan) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best molasses for my gingerbread cookie bars?
Absolutely! For gingerbread treats, I recommend using a robust, unsulfured molasses for a deeper flavor. Look for one that s labeled as full flavor or robust on the bottle. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it can be too bitter and might overpower the other spices.

What s the best way to store leftover frosted gingerbread cookie bars?
You can definitely keep your cookie bars tasty! Allow them to cool completely and then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor and texture!

Can I freeze frosted gingerbread cookie bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze these delicious bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked goodness.

What can I do if my frosting is too thick?
Very good question! If you find your frosting is too thick, simply add 1 tablespoon of plant-based milk at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you achieve that smooth, spreadable consistency. Remember, it s easier to add more milk than it is to thicken up a watery frosting, so go slowly!

Can I use a different flour for gluten-free gingerbread bars?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. I often use a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix that contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Just keep an eye on the mixing; you may need to adjust the liquid slightly based on the blend you choose.