As the holiday season draws near, the cozy scents of cinnamon and nutmeg fill the air, transporting me back to childhood memories of baking with family. I’ve discovered a fantastic way to capture that nostalgia in a single treat: Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting. Imagine indulging in rich, chewy brownies infused with warm spices that whisper holiday cheer, then taking a bite of creamy, luscious frosting that tastes like a cozy cup of eggnog. These brownies are not only a delightful feast for the senses but also incredibly easy to whip up—no special equipment required! They’re perfect for a festive gathering or as a heartfelt gift, and the best part? They improve overnight, allowing the flavors to meld into something truly special. So, let’s embrace the spirit of the season and create a treat that promises to be the highlight of any holiday table!
Why are Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting a must-try?
Delightful flavors: The blend of spices and rich chocolate makes every bite an aromatic experience that perfectly encapsulates the holiday spirit.
No fuss preparation: These brownies require no special equipment, making them accessible for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike.
Perfect make-ahead treat: Making these brownies a day in advance deepens their flavors, allowing you to relax with less stress during the busy holiday season.
Impressive presentation: Topped with creamy Eggnog Frosting, they add a festive touch to any dessert table—whether at parties or holiday gatherings.
Crowd pleaser: With their irresistible combination of flavors and textures, these brownies will be a hit with family and friends, ensuring that everyone will be asking for seconds!
Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Ingredients
• For the Brownies
- Semisweet Chocolate – Provides richness and a fudgy texture; substitute with dark chocolate for a deeper flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and flavor; can be replaced with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the brownies; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa lends a milder taste.
- Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves) – Infuses warmth and festive flavors; adjust quantities to suit your personal preference.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; do not substitute for optimal rise.
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; for a vegan option, try using flax eggs instead.
- Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds depth with a hint of molasses; granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
- Molasses – Introduces a distinct flavor and moisture; choose dark molasses for a stronger taste if desired.
- Crystallized Ginger – Adds a spicy kick; reduce or omit for a milder ginger flavor in your Gingerbread Brownies.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; almond extract can be used for a different twist.
• For the Eggnog Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Provides that creamy, rich base for the frosting; opt for vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness.
- Eggnog – Infuses seasonal flavor into the frosting; substitute with milk or a non-dairy alternative as needed.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; an extra splash is always a good idea!
- Ground Nutmeg – A seasonal spice that adds depth; sprinkle in to capture that festive essence.
These Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting are sure to elevate your holiday dessert table and spread cheer to everyone who enjoys them!
How to Make Gingerbread Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of the brownies later.
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Melt the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth and creamy. Stir occasionally until fully melted, creating a luscious mixture.
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Combine your dry ingredients in a separate mixing bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves), baking powder, and baking soda until well blended.
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Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl, then blend in the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, molasses, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and slightly frothy.
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Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture gently, ensuring it’s evenly mixed without deflating the eggs. This will keep your brownies nice and fluffy!
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Incorporate the dry ingredients gradually, mixing just until everything is combined. Gently stir in the crystallized ginger for an extra pop of flavor, being careful not to overmix.
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Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula for a lovely, flat finish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake; you want them fudgy!
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Cool the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. This is important to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt into the brownies.
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Prepare the Eggnog Frosting by beating the cream cheese and softened butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until combined and fluffy.
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Frost the cooled brownies generously with the eggnog frosting. For a festive touch, dust a light sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh nutmeg or mini gingerbread cookies for an extra festive look.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownies up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to deepen overnight. Simply bake and cool the brownies, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap at room temperature to maintain their fudgy texture. The Eggnog Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading. When you’re ready to serve, frost the brownies and dust with cinnamon for a festive touch that saves you precious time during busy holidays!
What to Serve with Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting?
Indulging in these festive brownies transforms any holiday gathering into a warm, inviting celebration filled with delightful flavors.
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Hot Cocoa: This rich and creamy drink pairs beautifully, amplifying the chocolatey goodness while the spices dance on your palate. With a dollop of whipped cream, it’s the perfect cozy companion.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warmth of the brownies, making each bite a deliciously balanced dessert experience. Plus, drizzling some melted chocolate on top is an irresistible finishing touch.
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Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies: These soft, spiced cookies echo the gingerbread flavors, creating a harmonious dessert table filled with seasonal treats. Guests will love the delightful variety, and both desserts complement each other wonderfully.
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Chai Tea: An aromatic cup of chai brings its own spice medley to the mix, enhancing the flavors of the brownies while providing a soothing warmth on chilly evenings. It’s a comforting drink that perfectly complements holiday gatherings.
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Cranberry Citrus Salad: A fresh salad of cranberries, oranges, and greens adds a burst of brightness, cutting through the richness of the brownies. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with the spices embedded in the dessert.
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Eggnog: For a festive twist, serve with a chilled glass of eggnog. It mirrors the flavors of the frosting while adding a celebratory touch to your meal, making it a seasonal favorite among guests.
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Chocolate Mint Brownies: If you’re feeling adventurous, mini chocolate mint brownies provide an enticing contrast to the warm spices of the gingerbread. Their cooling mintiness offers a delightful surprise with each bite.
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Mulled Wine: The warmth and rich flavors of mulled wine elevate the overall experience, evoking the cozy essence of the holidays. Sip it alongside the brownies for a pairing that feels like a cozy hug in a cup.
How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting
Room Temperature: Store the Gingerbread Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the brownies for longer freshness—up to 10 days. Just be sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze undecorated brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked taste!
Expert Tips for Gingerbread Brownies
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Make Ahead: Prepare these Gingerbread Brownies a day in advance to enhance the flavors. Store at room temperature overnight for the best results.
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Spice to Taste: Feel free to adjust the quantities of spices like cinnamon and ginger to suit your family’s palate, especially if serving kids.
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Check Doneness Early: Avoid crumbly brownies by checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested bake time. A toothpick with a few moist crumbs is perfect!
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Smooth Frosting: For a creamy Eggnog Frosting, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a silky texture.
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Prevent Sticking: When greasing your baking dish, be generous with the non-stick spray or parchment paper to avoid messy brownie removal.
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Chocolate Variations: If you want a richer flavor, try substituting semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for your Gingerbread Brownies.
Gingerbread Brownies Variations
Feel free to jazz up your Gingerbread Brownies and make them uniquely yours with these scrumptious twists!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and vegan cream cheese for the frosting to enjoy a plant-based treat.
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Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these brownies easily accessible to everyone.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising warmth that plays beautifully with the ginger and spices.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added texture and a heartier flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
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Cocoa Variation: Use Dutch-process cocoa powder for a smoother, milder chocolate taste that enhances the richness of the brownies.
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Fruity Twist: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a hint of tartness that complements the warm spices beautifully.
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Eggnog Alternative: Replace the eggnog in the frosting with a splash of bourbon for a sophisticated spin that adds a delightful warmth to every bite.
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Chocolate Ganache: Top your brownies with a rich layer of chocolate ganache before frosting for an indulgent twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Each variation offers a new experience, transforming a classic into something even more delightful, perfect for sharing—or savoring all to yourself!
Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely use semisweet chocolate for a rich, fudgy texture! If you prefer a more robust flavor, dark chocolate is a perfect substitute. Just keep an eye on the sweetness as dark chocolate can be more intense.
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh and ready to use?
Very important! For spices like cinnamon and ginger, check for strong aromas; if they’re weak or lack scent, it may be time to replace them. For baking powder and soda, do a quick freshness test: mix a teaspoon of each with a little vinegar or water. If it bubbles vigorously, they’re good to go!
How should I store my brownies after baking?
To keep your Gingerbread Brownies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Just be sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze the Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting?
Yes! For best results, freeze the undecorated brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and they’re good as new!
What can I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
Oh no! To avoid dry brownies in the future, make sure to check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time ends. As soon as a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, take them out! You could also try adding a little extra butter or shortening next time to ensure moisture.
Are these Gingerbread Brownies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! The recipe doesn’t include any nuts, making it a great option for those with nut allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for the cream cheese or any substitutes you may choose. Enjoy safely!
Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting for Festive Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper.
- Melt the semisweet chocolate and unsalted butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth and creamy.
- Combine your dry ingredients in a separate mixing bowl. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, ground spices, baking powder, and baking soda until well blended.
- Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl, then blend in the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Fold the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture gently, ensuring it’s evenly mixed without deflating the eggs.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients gradually, mixing just until everything is combined. Stir in the crystallized ginger carefully.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the brownies completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare the Eggnog Frosting by beating the cream cheese and softened butter in a medium bowl until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until combined.
- Frost the cooled brownies generously with the eggnog frosting. For a festive touch, dust with cinnamon before serving.