Recipe: Ginger-Cream Bars

GINGER-CREAM BARS

1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 eggs
1/2 cup molasses
1 cup hot coffee
FOR THE FROSTING:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Chopped nuts, optional

In a medium bowl, cream sugar and 1 cup butter; set aside.

Sift together flour, salt, soda and spices; add to creamed mixture. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, and molasses. Blend in coffee. Spread in a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes. Cool.

TO MAKE THE FROSTING:
Cream 1/2 cup butter and cream cheese; add sugar and vanilla. Spread over bars. Top with nuts if desired.

Makes 5-6 dozen
Source: Taste of Home Grandma's Great Desserts Cookbook