Spiced Chocolate Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting

The holiday season is all about indulgence, warmth, and flavors that evoke cozy memories. If you want a dessert that embodies all of that, look no further than these Spiced Chocolate Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting. Rich, fudgy brownies infused with warm spices and chopped crystallized ginger are topped with a creamy, lightly spiced eggnog frosting—making them the ultimate festive treat.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a special treat for your family, these brownies bring together the classic flavors of gingerbread and chocolate with the indulgence of a cream cheese frosting. Every bite delivers a decadent mix of chewy, spiced chocolate brownie and smooth, eggnog-infused frosting that’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Holiday Brownies

Here’s why these brownies are worth making this season:

• Fudgy chocolate base – Moist, chewy, and perfectly spiced.
• Gingerbread-inspired flavors – Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger bring warmth and holiday magic.
• Eggnog cream cheese frosting – Silky, creamy, and lightly spiced for a festive twist.
• Easy to slice and serve – Perfect for parties and holiday trays.
• Make ahead friendly – Brownies and frosting can be prepared in advance.
• Visually stunning – Frosted and lightly dusted with cinnamon, these brownies look as good as they taste.

Inspiration Behind the Recipe

Chocolate and gingerbread are a classic holiday pairing, reminiscent of cozy winter evenings by the fire. The idea behind this recipe was to combine the rich, chocolatey decadence of a brownie with the warm, aromatic spices of gingerbread and a festive cream cheese frosting inspired by eggnog.

Crystallized ginger adds a playful zing in every bite, and the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make each square taste like a holiday celebration. Topping it all with an eggnog-infused cream cheese frosting elevates the dessert, making it both indulgent and nostalgic.

Best Occasions to Serve

These brownies are perfect for any festive occasion:

• Christmas or holiday parties
• Cookie exchanges
• Family gatherings or potlucks
• Special winter desserts after holiday dinners
• Gift boxes for friends, coworkers, or neighbors

Their flavor profile, appearance, and seasonal charm make them a standout addition to any holiday spread.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe is divided into three main components: the chocolate-gingerbread brownie base, the eggnog cream cheese frosting, and garnish.

Chocolate Base:

• 4 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter

Dry Mix (Bowl One):

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Mix (Bowl Two):

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar (divided)
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1–2 tablespoons eggnog

Garnish:

• Ground cinnamon for sprinkling

Yield: 16 servings

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Foil to line the pan
• Medium mixing bowl for dry ingredients
• Large mixing bowl for wet ingredients
• Microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate and butter
• Rubber spatula for folding ingredients
• Whisk
• Electric mixer for frosting
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, letting the edges hang over for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy brownie release.

2. Melt Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 8 tablespoons butter. Add the 4 oz chopped semisweet chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes. Whisk until smooth. This mixture forms the rich chocolate base of the brownies.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cloves. Set aside.

4. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk 2 eggs, 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/3 cup molasses, 3 tablespoons chopped crystallized ginger, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully combined. Add in the melted chocolate and butter mixture, whisking until smooth.

5. Combine Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Mix just until combined—overmixing will result in denser brownies.

6. Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake at 325°F for 25–30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

7. Cool

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the foil overhang for easy slicing.

8. Make Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat 4 tablespoons softened butter with 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add 4 oz cream cheese, one piece at a time, beating thoroughly. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1–2 tablespoons eggnog. Beat in the remaining powdered sugar, adjusting the consistency with more eggnog if needed.

9. Frost and Garnish

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Lightly dust with ground cinnamon for a festive touch. Slice into 16 squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Molasses Substitute: Use honey or maple syrup if you prefer a milder gingerbread flavor.
• Extra Ginger Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or more crystallized ginger for added spice.
• Nutty Variation: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before frosting.
• Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in additional chocolate chunks or mini chips.
• Mini Brownies: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats, reducing baking time to 15–20 minutes.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Taste:

• Deep chocolate richness
• Warm gingerbread spices
• Sweet brown sugar and molasses notes
• Creamy, nutmeg-spiced eggnog frosting

Texture:

• Fudgy and moist brownie interior
• Slight chew from crystallized ginger
• Smooth, silky frosting

Serving Ideas:

• Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature
• Perfect for holiday dessert trays or party platters

Nutritional Overview

Estimated per serving (1 brownie):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly. Not suitable for vegan diets without modifications.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Brownies: Can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature.
• Frosting: Make ahead and store in the fridge; bring to room temperature before spreading.
• Freezing: Frosted brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will enhance the depth of flavor but may make the brownies slightly less sweet.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.

4. Can I make the frosting dairy-free?
Yes, use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, adjusting consistency with plant-based milk.

5. Can I make the brownies without frosting?
Absolutely. They are rich and flavorful on their own, perfect for a simpler treat.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	20 minutes
Bake	25–30 minutes
Cool	15–20 minutes
Frosting	10 minutes
Total	50 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Cut into small squares for dessert plates.
• Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or cocoa for a festive touch.

Recipe Variations

1. Peppermint Twist: Add crushed candy canes to the frosting for a minty holiday flavor.
2. Spicy Gingerbread: Increase ginger and cloves for a more pronounced gingerbread taste.
3. Chocolate Ganache Topping: Replace eggnog frosting with a chocolate ganache for double chocolate brownies.
4. Mini Brownie Bites: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats, perfect for gift boxes.

Ingredient Spotlight

Molasses:

• Adds deep, rich flavor and moist texture to brownies.
• Provides classic gingerbread notes that pair beautifully with spices.

Crystallized Ginger:

• Adds chewy texture and spicy sweetness.
• Enhances the gingerbread flavor without overpowering.

Eggnog:

• Infuses the frosting with warm holiday flavors.
• Can adjust quantity for consistency or flavor strength.

Pro Baking Tips

• Use room temperature eggs and butter for smoother batter.
• Fold in dry ingredients gently to avoid tough brownies.
• Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting for best results.
• For even slices, chill brownies slightly before cutting.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep frosted brownies in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap unfrosted brownies in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Frost after thawing.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	15 g
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations possible with substitutions.

Expanded Conclusion

These Spiced Chocolate Gingerbread Brownies with Eggnog Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a dessert—they’re a holiday experience. The fudgy, spiced brownie base paired with creamy, festive frosting is the perfect combination of cozy flavors and indulgent textures. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, gifting, or treating yourself after a long winter day.

Whether shared with family, presented at a party, or baked as a special seasonal treat, these brownies are guaranteed to become a favorite. Their beautiful presentation, festive aroma, and delectable flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Bake a batch, top them with frosting, sprinkle with cinnamon, and watch your holiday celebrations come alive with every bite. These brownies aren’t just dessert—they’re the ultimate holiday treat.

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