Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

Soft and chewy, the Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe combines rich chocolate flavors with a festive peppermint twist, making it perfect for any occasion. These delightful cookies offer a unique blend of chocolate chunks and creamy peppermint frosting, topped with crunchy candy canes. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and white chocolate creates a rich flavor that satisfies any chocolate lover.
• Festive Touch: Topped with crushed candy canes, these cookies add a cheerful pop of color and flavor to your dessert table.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in under 90 minutes, making them an ideal last-minute treat.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the peppermint flavor or change up the toppings based on your preferences!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 20 servings, these cookies are great for parties, gifts, or just enjoying at home.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool is key for achieving a light and fluffy cookie dough quickly.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

To create these delightful peppermint bark cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 and ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup + 2 Tablespoons (36g) Dutch processed cocoa
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 ounces (113g) semi-sweet chocolate (coarsely chopped)

For the Frosting

• 4 ounces (113g) white chocolate (coarsely chopped)
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1 and ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
• 1 and ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 to 3 Tablespoons (30-45mL) heavy cream

For Topping

• 2 ounces (57g) white chocolate (finely chopped)
• 5 candy canes (crushed)

How to Make Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Dutch processed cocoa,
3. Baking soda,
4. Salt.

Whisk until well combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. Unsalted butter,
2. Granulated sugar.

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in:
1. Room temperature egg,
2. Vanilla extract.

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until combined. Fold in coarsely chopped semi-sweet chocolate using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, melt coarsely chopped white chocolate in short bursts in the microwave until smooth. In another bowl, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy. Add melted white chocolate along with vanilla extract, peppermint extract, salt, and heavy cream; mix until smooth.

Step 9: Frost Cookies

Once cookies are cooled completely, spread a generous layer of frosting on top of each cookie.

Step 10: Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle crushed candy canes over frosted cookies before serving for that festive crunch!

Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Bark Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

These delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for sharing and enjoying during festive gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Hot Cocoa

• A warm cup of hot cocoa complements the cookies perfectly, adding a cozy touch to your dessert.

On a Dessert Platter

• Display these cookies alongside other holiday treats like brownies and fudge for an impressive dessert spread.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package cookies in decorative boxes or bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

With Ice Cream

• Serve a cookie alongside a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a delicious ice cream sandwich.

At Holiday Parties

• Offer cookies as part of a dessert table at holiday parties, ensuring guests can indulge in their sweet cravings.

How to Perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

Creating the perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should look soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to add your favorite chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Peppermint Bark Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Consider these options:

1. Hot Cocoa – A classic beverage that warms up any gathering, perfect for dipping cookies.
2. Coffee – Brewed coffee offers a rich contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruit adds a refreshing component that can lighten up the dessert table.
4. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecakes provide a creamy counterpoint to crispy peppermint bark flavors.
5. Brownies – Rich chocolate brownies complement the minty freshness of the cookies beautifully.
6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Create a fun sundae station where guests can customize their ice cream with cookie crumbles and toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Bark Cookies, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use the correct measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients. This ensures your cookies have the right texture and taste.
• Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter won’t cream properly with sugar, leading to dense cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix your cookie dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Skipping the chilling time: If you don’t chill your dough, the cookies can spread too much while baking. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge for better shape.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: Ovens can vary, so check that yours is calibrated correctly. An oven thermometer can help ensure consistent baking results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm cookies for a few minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor in your cookies.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peppermint Bark Cookies, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can use crushed peppermint candies instead for added flavor, but adjust the amount according to your preference.

Can I add nuts to this Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add great texture and flavor. Just mix them into the dough before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially during holiday gatherings. Their soft, chewy texture combined with the festive peppermint flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different types of chocolate or additional toppings for an extra special touch!