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November 1st? Oh, you mean Christmastime?! I’ll confess, fellow mamas, I’m one of those who dives headfirst into the holiday spirit. With that in mind, I’ll be exploring all the seasonal flavors for the foreseeable future. And speaking of festive flavors... let’s talk about BROWNIE GINGERBREAD! As the season unfolds, the comforting aroma of gingerbread fills the air, bringing back cherished memories of family gatherings, festive decorations, and cozy kitchens. While traditional gingerbread cookies are a beloved staple, why not elevate your baking with something a bit different? Enter gingerbread brownies—a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and warm spices that will enchant your taste buds and impress your guests. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the essence of gingerbread, celebrate the joy of brownies, and provide you with a step-by-step recipe for these indulgent treats.
Have you ever heard the tale of Gingerbread and Brownie?
Gingerbread, with its roots dating back to days of yore, is like that grandparent with a million tales from around the globe. Its blend of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices feels like a warm hug from the inside - and let's not forget its star role at Christmas! From cookies to grand architectural creations, gingerbread's got it all covered.
The heart of gingerbread's flavor lies in the combo of those warm spices and molasses - a deep, rich sweetness that's as essential to the holidays as that ugly Christmas sweater. And we're not just talking cookies here, folks.
Then, we've got brownies: the quintessential American sweet treat. Born in the U.S. in the late 1800s, this chocolaty sensation has been the hero of dessert tables ever since. And talk about a chameleon - chewy, cakey, fudgy - brownies can do it all. Throw in some chocolate, nuts or any flavorings you fancy, and you've got a dessert that can steal the show.
Now, imagine a mashup of these two - gingerbread and brownies. It's like a holiday party in your mouth! The warm, festive flavors of gingerbread jazz up the rich chocolate brownie, creating a taste sensation that'll have you coming back for seconds. Or thirds. No judgment here.
Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Brownies
Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and gingerbread spices creates a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Moist and Fudgy Texture: These brownies are designed to be rich and fudgy, making every bite a decadent experience.
Perfect for the Holidays: With their festive flavor, gingerbread brownies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights in.
Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
Gingerbread Brownie Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
For the Topping (Optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Combine Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the sugars and mix until well combined.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Bake: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Cool and Top: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. If desired, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a simple icing. Drizzle over the cooled brownies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the brownies into squares and serve. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Brownies
Use Quality Chocolate: The quality of chocolate you use will significantly impact the flavor. Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best results.
Don’t Overbake: For fudgy brownies, keep an eye on the baking time. They should be slightly underbaked for a gooey texture.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Add more ginger for a spicier kick or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Add Mix-Ins: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of cream cheese into the batter before baking.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Gingerbread brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last for about three months.
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them an excellent dessert for gatherings. Serve them alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or a classic hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience.
Gingerbread brownies are a delightful twist on two beloved treats, merging the warm spices of gingerbread with the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies. They embody the spirit of the holiday season, bringing comfort and joy to every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a holiday party, or just to enjoy at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the deliciousness of gingerbread brownies. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor, tradition, and the warmth of the holiday season. Happy baking!
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