Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the scent of cinnamon and ginger wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile, knowing the magic that’s about to happen. These Chewy Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting are my go-to whenever the holiday spirit strikes! With an effortless prep and a lush, chewy consistency, this recipe makes the perfect alternative to traditional cookies—ideal for those festive gatherings or cozy nights in. The addition of crystallized ginger elevates the warmth of spices, while the velvety eggnog frosting adds a creamy twist that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, this dessert will not only delight your taste buds but also make you the star of any holiday celebration. Curious about how to bring this deliciousness to your table? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Brownies So Special? Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices and rich chocolate creates a unique taste experience perfect for the holidays. Effortless Preparation: With minimal steps, it’s easier than baking traditional cookies, making it a go-to for busy hosts. Unique Texture: Moist and chewy, the brownies offer a delightful contrast to the creamy Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare these brownies in advance, letting the flavors develop overnight for a more delicious treat. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: They’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering, perfect for sharing or gifting, just like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies. Once you try these Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting, they’ll become your holiday must-have! Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Ingredients • Let’s gather everything you need to make these delightful Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting! For the Brownies Semisweet Chocolate – Adds rich flavor and moist texture; dark chocolate can deepen the taste. Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; margarine serves as a dairy-free alternative. All-purpose Flour – Gives structure; swap for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Enhances chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed offers a smoother profile. Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ground Ginger, Ground Nutmeg, Ground Cloves) – Infuses warmth; adjust to match your spice preference. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Key for rising; double-check freshness for best results. Eggs – Ensure structure and moisture; flax eggs work well for a vegan choice. Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture; granulated sugar can be used but changes texture. Molasses – Essential for that gingerbread flavor; dark corn syrup makes a sweet substitute. Crystallized Ginger – Adds spicy sweetness and chewiness; reduce for a milder taste or swap for ground ginger. Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure extract for maximum impact. For the Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting Cream Cheese – Forms the frosting base, adding creaminess; vegan alternatives are available. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; can reduce or use coconut sugar for a lighter option. Eggnog – Infuses festive flavor; milk or dairy-free options can change the flavor profile slightly. Ground Nutmeg – Adds an extra holiday touch; sprinkle on top for added flair. Now that you have your ingredients ready, get excited to create these delightful Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This will ensure your Gingerbread Brownies bake evenly and slide out of the pan effortlessly when they’re ready. Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, taking about 5-7 minutes. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you gather your dry ingredients. Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. This mix of spices will create the warm, festive flavor profile of your Gingerbread Brownies. Be sure to blend well, so there are no lumps. Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients In the bowl with the melted chocolate and butter, add the light brown sugar, molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture until it is glossy and well combined, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This creamy blend is the base for your brownies, infusing them with moisture and flavor. Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can lead to denser brownies. You want the batter for your Gingerbread Brownies to be thick and fudgy, with some streaks of flour remaining visible. Step 6: Add Crystallized Ginger Fold in the chopped crystallized ginger and mix just until evenly distributed throughout the brownie batter. This adds a delightful chewy texture and a touch of spicy sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your brownies. Step 7: Bake the Brownies Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, signaling their gooey texture. Step 8: Cool Completely Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully. This step is essential before frosting; it helps maintain the brownies’ chewy texture. Step 9: Prepare the Eggnog Frosting In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until fluffy and smooth, which should take about 3 minutes. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, ground nutmeg, and eggnog until fully combined. This festive frosting will complement the spice of the brownies beautifully. Step 10: Frost the Brownies Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting generously over the top using an offset spatula. The creamy layer adds a luscious finish, perfect for holiday gatherings. For an extra touch, feel free to dust with additional ground nutmeg or cinnamon. Step 11: Serve and Store Cut the frosted Gingerbread Brownies into squares and serve. For optimal flavor, let them sit overnight at room temperature before enjoying, as flavors deepen and enhance. If storing, keep them covered at room temperature for up to four days, ensuring you indulge in this delightful treat! Expert Tips for Gingerbread Brownies Let It Rest: Allow the brownies to sit overnight after baking to enhance their flavor and chewy texture—trust me, it’s worth the wait! Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check; aim for moist crumbs sticking to it rather than a clean insert to maintain the ideal gooeyness. Room Temperature Frosting: Make sure your cream cheese and butter for the eggnog frosting are at room temperature for the smoothest finish on your Gingerbread Brownies. Storage Matters: Keep brownies covered at room temperature to prevent drying out; refrigeration may alter that lovely chewy texture. Watch Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the brownie batter to suit your taste; a little extra ground ginger can add a delightful kick! Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Variations Feel free to sprinkle your unique touch into these Gingerbread Brownies, making them even more delightful for your holiday festivities! Citrus Twist: Substitute crystallized ginger for finely chopped candied orange to add a bright, zesty flavor. This refreshing change brings a new dimension that pairs beautifully with the spices. Indulgent Layer: Enhance your brownies by adding a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the frosting. The rich chocolate adds even more decadence, creating a sumptuous treat that chocolate lovers won’t resist. Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dessert. Just be sure to check the baking time, as it may vary. Spicy Kick: If you love a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter. It amplifies the warmth from the spices and gives your brownies an unexpected twist! Nutty Flavor: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor. Nuts not only add crunch but also complement the moisture of the brownies perfectly. Vegan Delight: Swap out the eggs for flax eggs and use vegan cream cheese for the frosting to create a diet-friendly version without sacrificing taste. This option ensures the goodness can be shared with everyone! Peppermint Frosting: Switch things up by substituting a peppermint extract in the eggnog frosting for a refreshing holiday flavor. Just a hint will transform the entire experience into a festive sensation! Flavorful Alternative: Instead of eggnog, try using chai tea concentrate for the frosting to infuse warm spice notes that pair wonderfully with the brownies. The result is a cozy, comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings. With these variations, you can play and personalize the recipe to suit your fancy—who wouldn’t want to try a twist on the classic! And if you’re on the lookout for more delicious holiday treats, don’t miss out on my favorite Nourish Bowl with Tahini Yogurt for wholesome goodness or baked delights like the Ramen Grilled Beef for something savory! Make Ahead Options These Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, bake the brownies in advance, cool them completely, and store them without frosting at room temperature for up to 4 days. For the frosting, prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days—just give it a quick stir before spreading it on the brownies. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled brownies, and you’ll have a festive treat that’s just as delicious, saving you precious time during the hectic holiday season! What to Serve with Chewy Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Indulging in these delicious brownies invites a world of festive flavors, perfect for creating a memorable holiday meal. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the spices in the brownies, enhancing that cozy atmosphere. Vanilla Ice Cream: Rich and creamy, vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the brownies, melting into every bite. Ginger Snap Cookies: These crunchy cookies echo the ginger notes in your brownies, creating a lovely textural contrast and fun flavor pairing for holiday gatherings. Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate station with toppings like whipped cream and marshmallows for a sweet and warming addition to the festive treats. Cream Cheese Mints: These minty, fresh morsels can palate cleanse after the rich brownies, adding a refreshing bite and enhancing the overall holiday experience. Roasted Nuts: The crunchy and savory element of roasted nuts provides a delightful contrast to the brownies’ sweetness, perfect for snacking on during gatherings. Fruit and Cheese Platter: Include some sharp cheddar or brie and fresh fruits to balance out the rich flavors, making it a sophisticated pairing for your desserts. Mulled Wine: An aromatic glass of mulled wine filled with spices mimics the flavors of the brownies and creates a warm, inviting drink for guests. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Offering a drizzle of warm caramel over the brownies can create an irresistible dessert experience, enhancing their rich flavor. How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Brownies Room Temperature: Keep your Gingerbread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor. Fridge: If you prefer to refrigerate, store the brownies in an airtight container for up to a week. However, be aware that chilling may alter their lovely moist consistency. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before frosting. Reheating: If desired, warm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked feel, especially before serving them to family and friends! Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for my Gingerbread Brownies? Absolutely! For semisweet chocolate, look for bars with at least 60% cocoa content for the richest flavor. When choosing butter, make sure it’s unsalted for more control over your sweet balance. Fresh spices are key too; check their aroma—if it’s weak, it might be time to refill! How should I store the Gingerbread Brownies? Store your Gingerbread Brownies covered at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This method helps maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor. If they start to dry, pop a slice of bread in the container to help keep them moist! Can I freeze my Gingerbread Brownies? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the unfrosted Gingerbread Brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature before frosting. For a quick treat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds! What should I do if my brownies turn out cake-like? Oh no! If your Gingerbread Brownies aren’t as chewy as you’d like, it might be due to overmixing the batter or baking them too long. To avoid this, mix until just combined and check for doneness with a toothpick—moist crumbs mean they’re perfect! Are these brownies safe for people with dairy allergies? Very! You can easily make these Gingerbread Brownies dairy-free by swapping unsalted butter for margarine and using vegan cream cheese in the frosting. Just be sure to select non-dairy eggnog or a milk alternative to maintain the festive flavor! Can I adjust the level of spice in the recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the amount of ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to suit your taste. If you’d like an even bolder ginger flavor, add more ground ginger, or for a milder profile, dial it back a bit. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing your baking! Chewy Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Delight No ratings yet Celebrate the holidays with these irresistible Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownies8 oz Semisweet Chocolate Adds rich flavor and moist texture1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness1 cup All-purpose Flour Gives structure1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Enhances chocolate flavor1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Infuses warmth1 tsp Ground Ginger Infuses warmth1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg Infuses warmth1/4 tsp Ground Cloves Infuses warmth1 tsp Baking Powder Key for rising1/2 tsp Baking Soda Key for rising2 Eggs Ensure structure and moisture1 cup Light Brown Sugar Contributes sweetness and moisture1/2 cup Molasses Essential for gingerbread flavor1/4 cup Crystallized Ginger Adds spicy sweetness and chewiness1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances overall flavorFor the Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting8 oz Cream Cheese Forms the frosting base2 cup Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting1/4 cup Eggnog Infuses festive flavor1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg Adds an extra holiday touch Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMedium saucepanLarge BowlMixing BowlwhiskSpatula Method Brownie PreparationPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.In a medium saucepan, combine the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter over low heat until melted and smooth.In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves.In the bowl with the melted mixture, add light brown sugar, molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract and whisk until glossy and combined.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.Fold in the chopped crystallized ginger.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Frosting PreparationIn a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and softened butter until fluffy, then add powdered sugar, ground nutmeg, and eggnog until combined.Spread the Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting over the cooled brownies and dust with additional ground nutmeg or cinnamon if desired.Cut into squares and serve, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight if possible. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 170mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg NotesAllow the brownies to sit overnight for enhanced flavor and texture. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
