Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated. Then, mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the gingerbread bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Let the frosting set for a few minutes before slicing into bars.