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Peppermint Bark Cookies: The Best Festive Treat You’ll Love
Introduction to Peppermint Bark Cookies
The first crisp air of winter often signals the beginning of a joyful tradition: holiday baking, where kitchens transform into sweet-scented sanctuaries filled with warmth and laughter. This year, peppermint bark cookies take center stage, bringing the festive flavors of crunchy peppermint and creamy chocolate right to your fingertips. As I prepared for the holiday season, I recalled countless nights spent baking with my family, the kitchen filled with cheerful music and the mingling aromas of vanilla, chocolate, and mint.
Picture this scene: it’s snowing outside, the family is cozy inside, and the scent of fresh cookies fills the air. What could be more enticing? This delightful treat combines the classic elements of peppermint bark with the charming textures of cookies, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. Each bite packs a delightful punch of refreshing peppermint, balanced beautifully with rich chocolate. It’s the ideal dessert to share at gatherings or simply to savor by the fireplace.
Creating peppermint bark cookies doesn’t just unite flavors; it also brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, preparing gifts for friends, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these cookies are a versatile addition to your dessert table. The process itself can be a bonding experience; invite your friends or family to join you for a cookie-baking afternoon filled with laughter and maybe a sprinkle of flour or two on the floor.
This recipe is not only simple but also allows for personal touches. From choosing different kinds of chocolate to varying the peppermint intensity, you can customize it to your heart’s desire. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a festive baking experience that will leave both your kitchen and heart sweetened.
In the next sections, we’ll explore the key ingredients that make these peppermint bark cookies a true holiday gem. Get ready for some fun!
Key Ingredients for Peppermint Bark Cookies
Butter: In crafting the perfect peppermint bark cookies, I rely on butter in two wonderful ways. First, I incorporate it into the dough for that rich and creamy texture. Then, I use it again in the buttercream frosting to create a luxurious finish. This twofold use not only enhances the flavor but also adds to that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience we’re all after during the festive season.
Sugars: The magic comes from a combination of brown sugar and white sugar. Brown sugar imparts a lovely caramel-like flavor, while white sugar contributes to that perfect chewy texture we’re all seeking in a cookie. The balance between the two is simply irresistible!
Cocoa Powder: To achieve that deep chocolate flavor, I can’t stress the importance of unsweetened cocoa powder. It beautifully balances with the sweetness of the sugars and the lively taste of peppermint.
Egg: One large egg is my binder in this recipe, ensuring the right moisture level and keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
Peppermint Extract: This is the real star of the show! Peppermint extract boosts the holiday spirit and pairs seamlessly with both dark and white chocolate.
Chocolate Chips: For added layers of flavor and texture, I choose semisweet and white chocolate chips. Each bite becomes a heavenly delight, making these peppermint bark cookies truly memorable.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Bark Cookies
Introducing peppermint bark cookies, the delightful twist on a classic holiday treat. Imagine biting into a cookie that captures the essence of festive cheer with every nibble. These cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a celebration of all things merry and bright.
Irresistible Flavor Combination
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Chocolate and Peppermint: The rich chocolatey base gets a refreshing uplift from the cool, crisp flavor of peppermint. This dynamic duo makes for a cookie that’s hard to resist.
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Crunch Factor: The crushed candy canes sprinkled on top not only add a pop of color but also a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, chewy cookie texture.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for the perfect gift to share, these peppermint bark cookies fit right in. Their vibrant appearance and delicious flavor will impress everyone, making them an ideal choice for cookie exchanges or festive parties.
Easy to Make
With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, creating these cookies is enjoyable and stress-free. Even if you’re a novice baker, you’ll find that whipping up a batch of peppermint bark cookies is a breeze. Just imagine the smiles you’ll bring to those around you with a plate of these delightful treats!
Once you’ve tasted them, you’ll realize why they’re a seasonal favorite that’s deserving of a spot in your recipe collection.
Tips for Making Perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies
Creating delightful peppermint bark cookies is like wrapping a warm blanket of holiday cheer around your taste buds. To elevate your cookie game and ensure a sweet, festive experience, here are some tips that will keep your baking on point.
Choose Quality Chocolate
Selecting the best quality chocolate is essential. Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for the base, as they provide a rich, balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint. Avoid chocolate chips that don’t melt well; instead, consider chocolate bars or melting wafers for a smooth finish.
Crush Peppermints Just Right
For that perfect peppermint crunch, crush the candies to your liking. Some people prefer them coarsely crushed for a bold texture, while others like a finer powder. Use a plastic bag and a rolling pin, or a food processor to get those festive pieces ready. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Don’t Overbake
We all love a soft and chewy cookie, so keep an eye on your baking! Remove the cookies from the oven when they look just set and slightly underbaked. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, giving you that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Let Them Cool Properly
After baking, allow your peppermint bark cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. Transferring them too early may lead to breakage. Patience is key, but trust me, the wait is worth the delicious reward!
With these tips in hand, your peppermint bark cookies will shine as the highlight of your holiday gatherings. Enjoy the baking process and the joy it brings!
Time Details for Peppermint Bark Cookies
As you prepare to dive into the delightful world of peppermint bark cookies, knowing the timing can make or break your baking experience. These cookies infuse the classic holiday flavors of peppermint and chocolate, making timing all the more essential for achieving the best results.
Preparation time
Getting everything ready takes around 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing your batter, and getting those peppermint crunch toppings all set for action.
Baking time
You’ll need approximately 12-15 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them; you want them just right—lightly golden around the edges while still soft in the center.
Total time
In total, set aside about 35 minutes from start to finish. With just over half an hour, you’ll have a batch of peppermint bark cookies that will fill your kitchen with holiday cheer!
Nutritional Information for Peppermint Bark Cookies
When you indulge in these delightful peppermint bark cookies, you’re not only enjoying a tasty treat but also fueling your body with important nutrients. Here’s a closer look at their nutritional benefits:
Calories
Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making it a perfect sweet snack without overindulging.
Protein
You’ll find about 2 grams of protein in each cookie. This helps add a little structure to your sweet treat while keeping you satisfied.
Sodium
With around 75 mg of sodium per cookie, these peppermint bark cookies keep the salty roads in check, allowing you to indulge in sweetness without worrying too much about your sodium intake.
Enjoy these cookies as a festive treat with friends or family, knowing they offer a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition!
FAQs about Peppermint Bark Cookies
Peppermint bark cookies are not just a festive treat; they hold the power to become family favorites and create sweet memories during the holiday season. Let’s dive into some common questions to help you master these delightful cookies!
Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! Making peppermint bark cookies in advance is a great way to get a head start on your holiday baking. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Alternatively, once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, so feel free to bake them ahead of time and enjoy the festive spirit.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
A sticky dough is a common challenge, but don’t worry! If you find yourself in this situation, simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes can also make it easier to handle. Just remember, a little patience goes a long way in achieving those perfect peppermint bark cookies.
How do I store the cookies properly?
Storing your cookies correctly ensures they stay fresh and delicious. Place your cooled peppermint bark cookies in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them for a longer time, consider freezing them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag—these festive treats will be ready whenever you need a sweet bite!
By addressing these FAQs, you can navigate the baking process with ease and confidence, ensuring that your peppermint bark cookies are as delightful as they are delicious!
Conclusion on Peppermint Bark Cookies
In the delightful world of holiday baking, peppermint bark cookies hold a special charm, combining crunchy peppermint and rich chocolate in each bite. These treats are not just a culinary joy; they evoke cherished memories of gatherings and festive spirit. As you enjoy baking and sharing them, you might find they bring just as much warmth to your home as they do to your taste buds. Don’t forget to consider personal touches, like adding a sprinkle of sea salt or using different chocolate types, to make these cookies uniquely yours. Happy baking!
Print
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: vegetarian
Description
Delicious peppermint chocolate cookies topped with homemade peppermint bark and creamy buttercream.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoon white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (or almond bark)
- 1 Tablespoon crushed peppermint
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3–4 Tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper then set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
- Mix in the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt until a dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Separate the dough into 6 balls and place them on the baking sheet. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes then transfer them to a cooling rack. Cool completely.
- Meanwhile, make your peppermint bark. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. Repeat with the white chocolate. Spread melted semisweet chocolate thin on parchment paper, then spread white chocolate on top. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint and let it set.
- In a large bowl with an electric mixer, whip your butter. Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract; whip again. Add in milk and vanilla, beat until light and fluffy.
- Transfer the buttercream to a Ziploc bag with the tip snipped off or a piping bag with a round tip. Pipe the buttercream in a swirl on top of the cookies. Break the bark into pieces, placing them on top of the cookies.
Notes
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of crushed peppermint.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
