Pin Rich and spiced gingerbread bars are layered with a buttery crumble and topped with a tangy lemon glaze, making this a festive treat you can enjoy any time of year. These bars are simple to prepare and bring together bold flavors in just 50 minutes.
I baked a batch for my family last winter, and everyone asked for the recipe! The cheerful lemon glaze makes these bars stand out at holiday gatherings or cozy tea times.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Light brown sugar, packed: 1 cup (200 g)
- Ground ginger: 2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
- Ground cloves: 1/4 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Unsalted butter, melted: 3/4 cup (170 g)
- Unsulphured molasses: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Large egg: 1
- Powdered sugar, sifted: 1 cup (120 g)
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 2 tbsp
- Finely grated lemon zest: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 8-inch (20 cm) square pan with parchment for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients:
- Pour in melted butter, molasses, and egg. Stir until thick dough forms.
- Form crumble & base:
- Reserve 3/4 cup dough for topping. Press remaining dough into pan for base layer.
- Create crumble effect:
- Sprinkle reserved dough on top in small chunks.
- Bake:
- Bake 28–32 minutes, until top is set and lightly golden.
- Cool:
- Let bars cool completely in pan.
- Make glaze:
- Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
- Finish & serve:
- Drizzle glaze over cooled bars. Allow to set 20 minutes before slicing.
Pin Serving these bars brings back family memories of chilly afternoons with mugs of mulled cider and a plate of warm gingerbread treats to share.
Serving Ideas
Enjoy crumble bars with hot tea, mulled cider, or pack them for lunchbox treats. Their festive look makes them popular for potlucks and bake sales.
Make Ahead & Storage
Bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to a month; thaw before glazing for best texture.
Variations
Mix in 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger or toasted pecans with the crumble for extra flavor. Experiment with orange zest or different spices if desired.
Pin The warmth of gingerbread and freshness of lemon make each bite irresistible. Share these crumble bars and spread a little cheer any time of year!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, use vegan butter for a dairy-free option and consider adding chopped pecans or crystallized ginger to enhance texture and flavor.
- → How should the bars be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crisp crumble topping?
Reserve part of the gingerbread dough and sprinkle it evenly over the base before baking to create a buttery, crisp crumble.
- → How do I ensure the lemon glaze sets properly?
After drizzling, allow the bars to rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes so the glaze firms up.
- → Can I prepare these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely, bake and glaze the bars in advance; store them covered to maintain freshness and flavor.