Peppermint Bark Cookies: A Festive Favorite

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, and there’s one treat that stands out: Peppermint Bark Cookies. With their rich buttery base, refreshing peppermint flavor, and delightful chocolate topping, these cookies are a must-have for festive celebrations. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to loved ones, or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will become a staple in your holiday traditions. Let’s explore the magic of these cookies, step by step.

Why Peppermint Bark Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

There’s something about peppermint that instantly evokes feelings of winter and holiday cheer. Combine that with the nostalgic comfort of cookies, and you’ve got a winning dessert. Peppermint Bark Cookies are:

• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Packed with festive flavors and textures.
• Perfect for gifting or serving at gatherings.
• A kid-friendly recipe that’s fun to bake as a family.

Ingredients for Perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies

To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need a blend of pantry staples and holiday-inspired ingredients.

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  Adds richness and ensures a tender cookie base.
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  Balances the flavor and provides structure.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  Contributes to the chewy texture and a hint of molasses flavor.
• 1 large egg
  Binds the dough together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  Adds that signature holiday zing.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  The foundation of the cookie.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  Ensures the cookies bake up light and slightly crisp.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  Balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  Provides bursts of chocolatey goodness in every bite.

For the Topping:

• 1 cup white chocolate chips
  Creates a smooth, creamy base for the topping.
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  Adds crunch and festive flair.
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, melted (optional for drizzling)
  For a sophisticated touch of flavor and decoration.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preparing the Dough

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a soft and tender cookie.
• Add Wet Ingredients: Blend in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.

2. Incorporating Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
• Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.

3. Shaping and Baking

• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. The centers should still be soft, as they will firm up while cooling.

4. Decorating the Cookies

• Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before adding toppings.
• Prepare the Topping: Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
• Decorate: Spread the melted white chocolate on each cookie, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top, and drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an elegant finish.

Tips for Success

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for premium chocolate chips and fresh peppermint extract to elevate the flavor of your cookies.

2. Don’t Overbake

For soft and chewy cookies, remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden.

3. Customize to Your Taste

Experiment with dark or milk chocolate in the cookie dough, or try white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While Peppermint Bark Cookies are a decadent treat, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrition Details

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Vitamin A: 5%
• Calcium: 3%
• Iron: 4%

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

How to Store Peppermint Bark Cookies

• Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to three months. Thaw and decorate when ready to serve.

Can I Make the Dough Ahead?

Yes! Prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and freeze. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time.

FAQs About Peppermint Bark Cookies

1. Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax egg, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips.

2. Can I skip the peppermint extract?

You can, but the cookies won’t have the signature minty flavor. You could try almond or orange extract for a twist.

3. How do I crush candy canes without making a mess?

Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces.

4. What’s the secret to chewy cookies?

Don’t overmix the dough, and underbake slightly for a soft center.

5. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Of course! Chopped almonds or walnuts would add a delightful crunch.

Conclusion

Peppermint Bark Cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and festive cheer. They’re easy to make, delicious to eat, and stunning to serve. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will help you create a holiday masterpiece. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start spreading the joy—one cookie at a time!

For more holiday baking inspiration, stay tuned and share your cookie creations with your loved ones. Happy baking!

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