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Brownies are already a beloved classic, but when you infuse them with the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread, they become something truly special. Gingerbread brownies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the cozy notes of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, creating a dessert that’s perfect for the colder months—or anytime you’re craving something comforting and indulgent. This recipe brings together two holiday favorites into one irresistibly moist and fudgy treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.

With their dense texture and rich flavor, these brownies strike the perfect balance between decadent and festive. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, gift boxes, or just curling up with a warm drink on a chilly day. The addition of cocoa enhances the deep chocolate base, while the warm spices layer in complexity and aroma. Topped with a dusting of icing sugar for a touch of elegance, these gingerbread brownies look as good as they taste. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a casual cook, this simple yet impressive recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your seasonal dessert rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, Fudgy Texture – These brownies are perfectly moist with a deep chocolate flavor.
Warm Holiday Spices – Classic gingerbread spices give a cozy, seasonal twist to traditional brownies.
One-Bowl Simplicity – The batter comes together easily without a lot of mess or equipment.
Perfect for Gifting – Wrapped up in parchment and ribbon, they make a beautiful homemade gift.
Freezer-Friendly – You can bake ahead and enjoy anytime by storing in the freezer.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Dark chocolate
Eggs
Brown sugar
Plain flour
Baking powder
Ground cinnamon
Ground ginger
Ground nutmeg
Cocoa powder
Icing sugar (for dusting)

Variations

Spiced Mocha Brownies: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Frosted Finish: Top with a cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache for a richer dessert.
Extra Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts or crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these gluten-free.
Orange Zest Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a bright, citrusy contrast to the spices.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or in short bursts in the microwave), melt the butter and dark chocolate together. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Sugar

Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the brown sugar. Mix until fully combined and glossy.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour, baking powder, spices, and cocoa powder. Fold gently until the batter is smooth and no dry streaks remain.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before dusting with icing sugar and slicing into squares.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overmix the batter after adding flour—this helps maintain a fudgy texture.
Use good-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor.
Let the melted chocolate mixture cool slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
Check for doneness with a skewer—moist crumbs are perfect; wet batter means it needs more time.
Dust with icing sugar just before serving for a clean presentation.

How to Serve

Serve gingerbread brownies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or mulled wine. For a festive dessert platter, cut them into small squares and serve with other spiced treats like ginger cookies or cinnamon shortbread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge for a week.

Freezing

Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Microwave individual brownies for 10–15 seconds to bring back that warm, just-baked feel.

FAQs

1. Can I make these brownies without chocolate?

No, chocolate is essential for the rich base. You could substitute with cocoa-only recipes, but the flavor and texture will change.

2. Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark?

Yes, but dark brown sugar adds more moisture and depth of flavor.

3. What size pan should I use?

An 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan works best for thick, fudgy brownies.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute with dairy-free butter and chocolate.

5. Are these brownies spicy?

They’re mildly spiced—just enough to give a warm, festive flavor without overwhelming.

6. Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Stir in up to 1/2 cup of chips before baking.

7. How do I prevent dry brownies?

Avoid overbaking and use the skewer test to check for moist crumbs.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

9. What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat, even squares.

10. Do I have to sift the dry ingredients?

Sifting helps distribute the spices and removes lumps, so it’s highly recommended.

Conclusion

Gingerbread brownies are a delightful mash-up of two favorite treats, bringing bold chocolate flavor and fragrant holiday spices into perfect harmony. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, they make the ideal seasonal dessert for gatherings, gifting, or solo indulgence. Whether enjoyed with a warm drink or topped with a scoop of ice cream, these brownies offer a rich and festive twist on a beloved classic. Bake a batch and taste the magic of spiced chocolate in every bite.