Name: Irresistible Peppermint Bark Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it's softened for easy mixing and a rich texture.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Creates a fluffy cookie texture when creamed with butter.); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients together, contributing to the cookie’s softness.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend if necessary.); 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Choose high-quality cocoa for the richest chocolate flavor.); 1/2 tsp Baking Powder (Helps create a soft and chewy texture.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances sweetness, balancing the flavors.); 8 oz Dark Chocolate (Use high-quality bars or chips for a deep, rich flavor.); 4 oz White Chocolate (Adds a sweet, creamy drizzle that contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate.); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies

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As the scent of chocolate and peppermint wafts through my kitchen, it instantly reminds me of the holiday gatherings filled with laughter and cheer. These Peppermint Bark Cookies embody that spirit, marrying a luscious buttery chocolate base with rich dark chocolate, and finishing off with a delightful drizzle of sweet white chocolate. Not only are they a cinch to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday baking, but they also double as charming gifts for your loved ones. Each bite is a whimsical confection that brings a little extra joy to any festive occasion. Ready to create your own batch of these scrumptious treats? Let’s bring some holiday magic to your kitchen!

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Why Are Peppermint Bark Cookies a Must?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery chocolate with rich dark chocolate and a sweet white drizzle creates a symphony of flavors that embodies the festive spirit.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy bakers, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it a go-to for last-minute cookie platters.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are a hit at any gathering, appealing to both chocolate lovers and those who enjoy a refreshing minty crunch.

Gift-Ready: Pack them in decorative boxes or wrap them beautifully for a heartwarming gift that delights friends and family alike.

Want to explore more festive ideas? Check out my delightful Pistachio Cream Cookies or try the irresistible texture of these Brown Sugar Cookies.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (226g): Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing and a rich texture.
• Granulated Sugar – 1 cup (200g): Creates a fluffy cookie texture when creamed with butter.
• Egg – 1 large: Binds ingredients together, contributing to the cookie’s softness.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups (240g): Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend if necessary.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – 1/2 cup (45g): Choose high-quality cocoa for the richest chocolate flavor.
• Baking Powder – 1/2 tsp: Helps create a soft and chewy texture.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp: Enhances sweetness, balancing the flavors.

For the Coating
• Dark Chocolate – 8 oz (225g): Use high-quality bars or chips for a deep, rich flavor.
• White Chocolate – 4 oz (113g): Adds a sweet, creamy drizzle that contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate.

For the Topping
• Crushed Peppermint Candies – 1/2 cup: Adds a festive crunch and peppermint flavor; can be substituted with crushed candy canes if desired.

Creating these Peppermint Bark Cookies will surely bring a touch of holiday magic to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Dough
Start by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer, until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth. This base will create the rich, buttery flavor essential in your Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until evenly distributed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer, blending until no dry streaks remain. The dough should be thick and cohesive, perfect for shaping your delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes, or simply slice them into squares if preferred. Place the cut cookies spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough room for them to spread during baking, which is essential for achieving that soft texture.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should appear firm while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Cool and Coat
Once the Peppermint Bark Cookies are completely cool, melt 8 ounces of dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Dip the tops of the cookies into the melted dark chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. The glossy chocolate coating adds both flavor and visual appeal to your holiday treats.

Step 6: Add White Chocolate Drizzle
After the dark chocolate has set slightly, melt 4 ounces of white chocolate in the same manner. When it’s smooth and warm, use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle it artfully over the tops of the dipped cookies. This sweet drizzle provides a lovely contrast to the dark chocolate and enhances the festive look of your Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 7: Finish with Peppermint
Before the white chocolate drizzle hardens, sprinkle 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies on top of each cookie. The vibrant color and crunch of the peppermint will not only make your cookies visually striking but also add that signature minty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.

Step 8: Set and Serve
Allow the cookies to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help set the layers of chocolate. Once they are set, your delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies are ready to be served! Enjoy them within a week for the best flavor or store them in an airtight container to preserve their fresh taste.

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Helpful Tricks for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Chocolate Melting Method: Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals to melt dark chocolate slowly, preventing burning and ensuring a smooth finish.
Setting Layers: Allow each layer of chocolate to set before adding the next for a cleaner, more appealing look in your Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the cookies for 30 minutes after assembling to help set the chocolates and enhance the flavor, making them even more enjoyable.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain the soft, chewy texture of your cookies.
Peppermint Candy Tip: Crush peppermint candies just before use to keep their crunch and freshness in your decorative topping for Peppermint Bark Cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness.

Fridge: For a slightly firmer texture, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they are well-sealed to prevent them from absorbing other odors.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy a fresh taste, thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours before serving, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies

Indulge in the holiday spirit by pairing these delightful cookies with some tasty companions that enhance their rich, chocolatey flavor.

Classic Hot Cocoa: The warm, creamy sweetness of hot cocoa beautifully complements the minty crunch of the cookies, making for a cozy pairing that’s perfect for winter evenings.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream adds a luscious texture that balances the cookies’ crunch, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The fruity freshness of strawberries paired with decadent chocolate echoes the flavors in the cookies while adding a refreshing twist.
Peppermint Tea: A steaming cup of peppermint tea enhances the mint flavor, offering a warm, soothing experience that heightens the festive notes of the cookies.
Nutty Biscotti: The crumbly, nutty texture of biscotti provides an excellent contrast, and indulging in bites of both treats will surprise your palate with layered flavors.
Fruitcake: For an unexpected pairing, the dense, spiced richness of classic fruitcake melds surprisingly well with the light, minty sweetness of these cookies.

Exploring these pairings will elevate your holiday gatherings, making for unforgettable moments filled with joy and flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and cool them completely, storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days before coating them in chocolate. To finish, just melt the dark chocolate, dip the cooled cookies, drizzle with white chocolate, and sprinkle with crushed peppermint just before serving. By following these steps, you’ll have delicious, festive cookies ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore and personalize your Peppermint Bark Cookies with these tempting twists and substitutions.

Mint Flavor Boost: Add a ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for a more pronounced minty flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Chocolate Variations: Swap dark chocolate for semi-sweet or milk chocolate for a sweeter twist that’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for cookies that everyone can enjoy without sacrifice.
Nutty Surprise: Mix in ½ cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a delightful flavor contrast.
Festive Sprinkles: Instead of crushed peppermint candies, try using colorful holiday sprinkles for a vibrant touch that adds visual appeal.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for an unexpected, warm kick that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Chocolate Coating Duo: For a delightful visual treat, dip half of the cookies in dark chocolate and the other half in white chocolate—creating a beautiful contrast.
Filled Cookies: Sandwich a layer of peppermint-flavored frosting or cream between two cookies for a decadent treat reminiscent of a classic chocolate sandwich cookie.

Embrace creativity in your kitchen! These Peppermint Bark Cookies are versatile treats that can be tailored to your family’s cravings. If you need more inspiration, check out my festive Caramel Chocolate Cookies or enjoy the delightful crunch in Browned Butter Cookies.

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Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint candies?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint candies, look for vibrant, undamaged candies without dark spots or cracks. Crushed candy canes are an excellent choice for that festive look and texture, while hard peppermint candies work too. Aim for candies that are fresh for the best flavor and crunch.

How should I store my Peppermint Bark Cookies?
To store your Peppermint Bark Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their freshness. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are well-sealed to avoid absorbing odors.

Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Peppermint Bark Cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent them from sticking together. Place them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that fresh-baked feel.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to overmixing the dough or not chilling it before baking. To avoid this, ensure you mix the ingredients just until combined. If you notice your dough is too soft, chilling it in the fridge for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting will help maintain their shape while baking.

Are Peppermint Bark Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep Peppermint Bark Cookies away from pets, especially chocolate and peppermint, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always store them in a place that your furry friends can’t reach, ensuring they enjoy their own safe treats instead!

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. For dairy-free options, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative. Additionally, opt for dairy-free chocolate to maintain that indulgent flavor without the dairy. Enjoy experimenting, and happy baking!