Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars: 16 Irresistible Treats

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Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the rich, warm spices of gingerbread with a luscious, gooey caramel center and white chocolate chips. This festive recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights, or whenever you crave a sweet indulgence. Each bite offers a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

This recipe for caramel gingerbread cookie bars is a favorite for many reasons. First, the combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Second, the gooey caramel layer makes these bars incredibly indulgent. The addition of white chocolate chips adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the spiced ginger cookie bars. Plus, these are easy caramel gingerbread cookie bars that require minimal effort but yield maximum flavor. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Lastly, they are vegetarian-friendly, making them a great option for a variety of diets!

Ingredients for Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Gather these items:

115 g unsalted butter
190 g dark brown soft sugar
1 medium egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
275 g plain flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 tbsp cornflour
1.5 tsp ground ginger
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
300 g white chocolate chips
200 g caramel
Extra sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

How to Make Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 190ºC (170ºC fan). Line a 9×9 inch square baking tin with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Melt the unsalted butter, then transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the dark brown soft sugar and whisk vigorously for two minutes until well combined and slightly fluffy.
Step 3: Incorporate the medium egg and vanilla extract into the bowl, whisking again until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, sift together the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, sea salt, cornflour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring to form a thick cookie dough.
Step 5: Fold the white chocolate chips into the dough evenly with a spatula or spoon.
Step 6: Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared 9×9 inch tin, using a lightly floured spatula for easier spreading.
Step 7: Spread the caramel evenly over the base cookie dough layer, leaving a small gap around the edges. For a salted caramel twist, sprinkle extra sea salt flakes on top of the caramel.
Step 8: Carefully place the remaining cookie dough on top of the caramel layer. It’s easier to add it in small lumps rather than spreading to avoid disturbing the caramel.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes. Baking for about 19 minutes yields a nicely gooey texture.
Step 10: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the tin to set properly before slicing into squares and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Keep these in mind:

For an extra chewy texture, underbake slightly and allow the bars to cool completely before slicing.
Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for additional flavor and texture.
Using room temperature ingredients helps achieve a smoother batter.

Best Ways to Serve Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

These delicious caramelized gingerbread treats can be served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra decadent dessert. They also make fantastic holiday gifts when packaged in a festive box!

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave them for a few seconds until heated through. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as you can make them ahead and store them for later enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

The secret lies in achieving the right balance between the moistness of the cookie dough and the gooey caramel. Make sure to follow the baking time closely to avoid drying them out.

Can I make Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and not overmix the dough. This will help achieve the perfect texture.

Variations of Caramel Gingerbread Cookie Bars You Can Try

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding different spices like cardamom or cloves for a unique flavor. You can also try using dark chocolate chips instead of white for a richer taste. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend!

For more delicious recipes, check out Soft Christmas Peppermints or Christmas Chocolate Bark. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of ginger, visit Healthline for more information.