Prepare the Gingerbread Bars:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Spread in Pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Cool: Allow the gingerbread bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

Mix Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If needed, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Bars: Once the gingerbread bars are fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Serve: Slice the bars into squares and enjoy!