Name: Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars – Soft, Festive Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Sugar (Sweetens the cookie base; brown sugar deepens the flavor.); 1 large Egg (Binds the ingredients; a flax egg can be used for a vegan substitute.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds aromatic sweetness; swap with almond extract for a different flavor twist.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (The primary structure; gluten-free flour is a suitable replacement.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (A leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances all flavors; skip if using salted butter.); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy (Boosts peppermint flavor; chocolate chips work as a tasty alternative.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Forms the base for a sweet frosting.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Creates a rich frosting; can be replaced with cream cheese.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adds a warm flavor note.); 2 tablespoons Milk (Adjusts the frosting consistency.); 1/4 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy (For topping to enhance presentation.)

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As the first snowflakes begin to twirl down from the sky, I find myself yearning for the cozy warmth of holiday baking. It’s during this magical season that I whip up a batch of Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars, guaranteed to fill my home with sweet memories and festive cheer. Soft, thick, and decadently scrumptious, these bars are not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings. Topped with a luscious frosting and sprinkled with crushed peppermint, they are a delightful way to indulge in the uplifting flavors of the season. Whether served at a potluck or enjoyed with a cup of cocoa, they promise to bring a smile to your face. Curious how to make these melt-in-your-mouth treats? Let’s dive right in!

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Why Make Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars?

Irresistible Flavor: These bars burst with sweet peppermint flavor, bringing the spirit of the holidays to life.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time—perfect for surprising guests!

Versatile Frosting Options: Choose between Peppermint Cream Cheese or Peppermint White Chocolate Frosting for a personal touch that’s sure to impress.

Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite combines fluffy cookie goodness with creamy frosting, creating a delightful experience that melts in your mouth.

Crowd Favorite: Whether at a festive gathering or a cozy night in with hot cocoa, these bars are the ultimate holiday treat that everyone will love.

Try pairing them with a Brown Sugar Cookies for a variety of flavors at your dessert table!

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients

• Bake these delicious bars with festive flair using the ingredients below!

For the Cookie Bars

Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookie base and balances with peppermint; brown sugar deepens the flavor.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and gives structure; a flax egg can be used for a vegan substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness; swap with almond extract for a different flavor twist.
All-Purpose Flour – The primary structure; gluten-free flour is a suitable replacement.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent for rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances all flavors; skip if using salted butter.
Crushed Peppermint Candy (optional) – Boosts peppermint flavor and adds a festive look; chocolate chips work as a tasty alternative.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Forms the base for a sweet frosting; essential for creamy texture.
Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich frosting; can be replaced with cream cheese for tanginess.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm flavor note to the frosting.
Milk (or dairy alternative) – Adjusts the frosting consistency for easy spreading; use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Crushed Peppermint Candy (for topping) – Decorative touch that elevates presentation and adds crunch.

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for satisfying your holiday sweet tooth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help the bars release easily after baking, ensuring that your delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are ready to pop out perfectly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 1 minute until it becomes light and fluffy, showcasing a pale yellow color. This creamy base lays the foundation for your cookie bars, enhancing their soft texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack in one large egg and add the vanilla extract to the bowl. Continue mixing on low speed until the mixture is fully combined and smooth, which will take about 30 seconds. This step adds moisture and flavor, contributing to the charm of your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until the flour is incorporated and a thick batter forms—be careful not to overbeat, as this can affect the texture of your bars. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape well.

Step 5: Fold in Peppermint
Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candy, being sure not to overmix. This step is crucial for embedding that delightful peppermint flavor throughout the dough while keeping the texture light. Aim to distribute the peppermint evenly for a festive pop in every bite of your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step 6: Spread and Bake
Using a spatula, spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the center springs back when lightly pressed. Avoid overbaking to preserve the bars’ soft, chewy texture.

Step 7: Cool and Remove
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, using the edges of the parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they don’t steam and get soggy while cooling.

Step 8: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, add powdered sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, salt, and enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency. Beat the mixture using an electric mixer until it’s creamy and smooth. This luscious frosting is perfect for topping your cooled Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars, adding a delightful layer of sweetness.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish
Spread the frosting generously over the cooled bars using a spatula. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top, making sure to distribute it evenly. This extra layer of decoration will not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually appealing finish for your holiday treat.

Step 10: Cut and Serve
Allow the frosting to firm up slightly for about 10 minutes before cutting your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars into squares. Use a sharp knife to slice through the frosted bars, and serve them as a cheerful addition to your holiday spread or alongside a warm drink for cozy enjoyment.

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What to Serve with Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars?

Imagine your holiday gathering filled with warmth, laughter, and the sweet aroma of festive treats that delight everyone at the table.

Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing, rich and velvety hot cocoa complements the sweetness of the bars, creating a cozy, nostalgic experience.
Peppermint Tea: For a refreshing touch, serve peppermint tea that enhances the bars’ flavors while providing a soothing, aromatic contrast.
Creamy Eggnog: The spiced sweetness of eggnog perfectly balances the peppermint flavor, making each bite and sip a delightful holiday indulgence.
Sugar Cookie Snowmen: These adorable festive treats add charm to your dessert spread and complement the peppermint with classic vanilla sweetness.
Christmas Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings a fresh, tangy counterpoint to the rich flavor of the bars, lightening the dessert table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside the warm bars creates a deliciously melting moment of bliss.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warmth of ginger pairs wonderfully with peppermint, creating a festive contrast that enhances the seasonal spirit of your gathering.
Coffee: A rich, aromatic cup of coffee provides a warm and comforting balance to the sugary bars, perfect for a cozy dessert pairing.

Storage Tips for Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful while making them easy to grab for a festive treat.

Fridge: If you wish to prolong freshness, refrigerate the bars. They can last in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To refresh the texture, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that soft, melt-in-your-mouth experience!

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars Variations

Explore the delightful possibilities for customizing your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars with these mouthwatering variations that will elevate your holiday baking.

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use a dairy-free milk alternative in frosting for a vegan-friendly treat.
Chocolate Twist: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich mint chocolate combo that’s irresistibly decadent.
Flavor Company: Introduce a teaspoon of peppermint extract into your batter for an intensified peppermint punch that warms the soul.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can indulge in these delicious bars.
Creamy Frosting: Replace half the unsalted butter in your frosting with cream cheese for a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the sweetness.
Nutty Goodness: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a crunchy texture that enhances every bite.
Frosting Variation: Combine melted white chocolate into your frosting to create a sweet, smooth layer that adds a festive touch.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the batter or frosting for a surprising spicy kick that balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Feel free to experiment and create your own variations! And if you’re looking for some other delicious recipes, check out these delightful treats: Dream Cookie Bars for a nutty indulgence, or Chocolate Peanut Bars when you need that chocolate satisfaction. Enjoy your baking journey!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Don’t Overmix: Avoid tough cookie bars by mixing just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing will lead to a denser texture.
Cool Completely: Let your bars cool entirely before frosting; this preserves the frosting’s creamy consistency and prevents it from sliding off.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise in your bars. Stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the frosting and adjust the sugar to your liking. A touch more powdered sugar can make it perfectly sweet for your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars.
Crushed Peppermint Tips: For a beautiful presentation, crush peppermint candy just before sprinkling to keep it fresh and crunchy on top of the bars.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for those who want to save time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients up to the baking step and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This helps maintain the bars’ soft texture while preventing browning. Additionally, you can frost the bars up to 3 days before serving; simply store them in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh and creamy. When you’re ready to indulge, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for that just-baked taste, ensuring every bite is just as delightful!

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Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint candy for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint candy, look for vibrant, firm candies without dark spots or a dull appearance, which may indicate aging. I recommend classic candy canes for that perfect festive touch! You can also find peppermint bits specifically made for baking; they break down more easily in the batter.

How should I store my Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars?
To maintain their delightful softness, store your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them sit out for a bit before savoring, as they taste divine at room temperature!

Can I freeze these bars for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper between layers for easy separation. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re craving a treat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and enjoy!

What if my bars turned out too dense or dry?
If your Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are overly dense, next time, be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. This can lead to a tougher texture. To prevent dryness, monitor baking time closely; your bars should be baked until the edges are golden and the center is slightly springy. If they still feel dry, an extra drizzle of frosting can bring back moisture!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of?
Yes, pay attention to allergies in your guest list! The main allergens in this recipe are butter, eggs, and wheat from the flour. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and substitute the egg with a flax egg if anyone is vegan. Always double-check packaging for traces of allergens if you’re sharing these festive treats!

Can I substitute the frosting in this recipe?
Very! You can opt for Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting if you’re after a tangy twist or create a lighter version with whipped cream. If you prefer a sweeter experience, melt white chocolate and blend it into your frosting for a delightful Peppermint White Chocolate Frosting. The more frosting variations, the merrier!