Irresistible Peppermint Bark Cookies for Holiday Cheer

When you think of holiday treats, peppermint bark cookies are like a festive hug for your taste buds. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you dreaming of snowy nights by the fireplace and cozy gatherings with friends and family. rich brown butter pecan cookies These cookies not only taste like a winter wonderland but also look like one, making them perfect for holiday parties or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones.

Now, let me take you back to a time when I decided to impress my in-laws with my baking skills (spoiler alert: it did not go as planned). I whipped up a batch of these delightful peppermint bark cookies, thinking I’d unlock the secret to culinary mastery. As they came out of the oven, I couldn’t help but feel like a baking wizard. With every bite, I could see their faces light up, and suddenly, all the flour-covered mishaps were worth it! So grab your apron and get ready to create some memorable moments with these scrumptious cookies. For more inspiration, check out this Easter shortbread cookies recipe recipe.

Ingredients for peppermint bark cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for your cookies; make sure it’s measured correctly for that perfect texture.
• Baking Powder: Helps your cookies rise and become fluffy; double-check that it’s fresh to avoid flat cookies.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality cocoa for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens your dough; don’t skimp here—sweetness is key!
• Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy mixing and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder; using large eggs works best for this recipe.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor; always choose pure vanilla for the best outcome.
• Candy Canes: Crushed for topping; they bring that irresistible peppermint crunch and festive flair.
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chips add gooey chocolate goodness; feel free to mix it up with white chocolate if desired.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make peppermint bark cookies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly once they’re mixed.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture will form the foundation of your cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about three minutes). You’ll know it’s ready when it looks like clouds on a sunny day!

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture should be smooth—like how you feel after finishing all your holiday shopping early!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix unless you want tough cookies—nobody likes those!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Candy Canes

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed throughout your dough. The colors should resemble holiday cheer!

Once you’ve shaped your cookie dough into balls on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, bake them in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re set yet slightly soft in the center. Transfer them onto wire racks to cool completely before devouring!

These peppermint bark cookies will not just satisfy your sweet tooth; they’ll also bring joy and laughter as you share them with family and friends during those cozy winter evenings!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best peppermint bark cookies, start by melting your chocolate while mixing the dry ingredients. Then, combine everything smoothly before placing them on a baking sheet. Bake until just set for that perfect chewy bite. For more inspiration, check out this chocolate cake mix waffles recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these cookies by using dark or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate. You can also add crushed nuts or swap out peppermint for another flavor like orange zest if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

Store your peppermint bark cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to revive them, briefly warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.

I remember the first time I made peppermint bark cookies; my friends couldn’t stop raving about them during our holiday get-together. Little did I know, they would become my go-to treat every winter!

FAQs:

What are peppermint bark cookies?

Peppermint bark cookies are delicious treats that combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint. These cookies typically feature a chocolate base, often topped with white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift during the festive season. The delightful crunch of the peppermint adds an extra layer of flavor, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.

How do I store peppermint bark cookies?

To keep your peppermint bark cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their texture and flavor for several days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can also freeze these cookies for long-term storage; simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Can I customize peppermint bark cookies?

Absolutely! You can customize peppermint bark cookies by adding different ingredients to suit your taste. For instance, try mixing in nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch. You could also experiment with various types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, to create unique flavor combinations. pumpkin spice overnight oats spiced roasted nuts for snacking Adding other extracts like vanilla can enhance the overall taste, making these cookies truly your own.

Are peppermint bark cookies suitable for gift giving?

Yes, peppermint bark cookies make excellent gifts! Their festive appearance and delicious flavor are sure to delight anyone who receives them. Consider packaging them in decorative tins or boxes tied with a ribbon for a personal touch. These cookies also hold up well during shipping if you’re sending them to friends or family far away, making them a thoughtful treat for loved ones during the holiday season.

Conclusion for peppermint bark cookies:

In conclusion, peppermint bark cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the festive season with their combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors. Easy to customize and perfect for gifting, these treats will surely impress friends and family alike. Remember to store them properly to enjoy their freshness longer. Whether you serve them at holiday gatherings or share them with loved ones, these cookies will add joy to any occasion.

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Peppermint Bark Cookies

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Peppermint bark cookies are the perfect holiday delight, blending rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint in every soft, chewy bite. These festive treats are not only a joy to make but also to share, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts. With their vibrant colors and delightful flavors, these cookies will leave everyone craving more. Easy enough for bakers of all levels, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Gently fold in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
7. Scoop cookie dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until set but slightly soft in the center; cool on wire racks.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg