Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting are the ultimate holiday dessert, combining the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread with the rich, creamy sweetness of eggnog frosting. These fudgy brownies are infused with traditional gingerbread spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, while the smooth eggnog frosting adds a festive and indulgent touch. Perfect for Christmas parties, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy treat by the fireplace, these gingerbread brownies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients:

For the gingerbread brownies:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)

For the eggnog frosting:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for garnish)

Directions:

Make the gingerbread brownies:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
5. Bake the brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.

Make the eggnog frosting:

6. Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggnog and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until smooth and creamy.
7. Chill the frosting: Refrigerate the frosting for 10-15 minutes to firm it up slightly before spreading.

Assemble the brownies:

8. Frost the brownies: Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the eggnog frosting evenly over the top of the brownies using a spatula.
9. Garnish: Sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon and nutmeg over the frosting for a festive touch.

Serve:

10. Slice and serve: Cut the gingerbread brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy these decadent, festive treats with a hot cup of cocoa or holiday beverage.

Notes:

• Molasses Substitute: If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
• Frosting Variations: For a richer frosting, you can add a bit of cream cheese to the frosting mixture for extra tang and creaminess.
• Make-Ahead: These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The eggnog frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before frosting.
• Freezing: You can freeze the gingerbread brownies (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

Conclusion:

Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Frosting are a decadent holiday treat that brings together the rich flavors of gingerbread with the creamy, sweet goodness of eggnog. The moist, spiced brownies combined with the luscious eggnog frosting make for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any holiday occasion. Whether served at a Christmas party or enjoyed with a cup of tea, these brownies are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a festive and flavorful dessert that’s sure to bring joy to the season!