Name: Irresistible Peppermint Bark Cookies for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; ½ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; ½ teaspoon Salt; 8 oz Dark Chocolate; 4 oz White Chocolate; ½ cup Crushed Peppermint Candies (candy canes work well)

As I unwrapped a festive box of peppermint bark, I couldn’t shake the inspiration that suddenly struck me; what if I transformed that beloved flavor into something even more delightful? Enter the Chewy Peppermint Bark Cookies! These little gems encapsulate the essence of holiday baking, blending rich chocolate with the invigorating crispness of peppermint. The mere thought of combining these flavors has been a crowd-pleaser during my holiday gatherings. Not only are these cookies incredibly simple to whip up, but they also make for a stunning treat to share at cookie swaps and cozy nights spent with loved ones. Ready to dive into this delicious journey and elevate your holiday baking? Let’s get started!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: With rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, these cookies create a holiday experience like no other. Easy to Make: Crafted in just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can shine. Perfect for Gifting: These Chewy Peppermint Bark Cookies look gorgeous on festive platters or wrapped as gifts. Versatile Treat: Try adding nuts for extra crunch or experiment with caramel drizzles! Holiday Tradition: They capture the spirit of seasonal cheer, making them a must-have at every gathering. For more cookie inspiration, don’t miss our delicious Lava Brownie Cookies and Vanilla Waffle Cookies!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients

• Everything you need for these delightful cookies!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; margarine works as a dairy-free substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and supports the cookie’s structure; use brown sugar for a chewier bite.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients and contributes moisture; a flax egg can be a great vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s flavor profile; consider peppermint extract for extra mintiness, but use it sparingly.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cookies their structure; gluten-free flour can be swapped in for a gluten-free option.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Infuses a deep chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa gives an even more intense taste.
Baking Powder – Provides lift to the cookies; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and magnifies flavors; using sea salt can add a gourmet touch.

For the Coating

Dark Chocolate (8 oz) – Covers the cookies with a luxurious layer; high-quality bars or chips are recommended for the best flavor.
White Chocolate (4 oz) – Used for drizzling on top; avoid almond bark as it doesn’t melt smoothly.
Crushed Peppermint Candies (½ cup) – Adds festive crunch and flavor; candy canes are perfect for crushing.

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a mixing bowl using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Next, beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated to form a smooth batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, stirring just until a dough forms. The Peppermint Bark Cookies will begin to shape up, so make sure no dry flour remains visible.

Step 3: Roll and Cut
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes, whether they be festive stars or classic circles. Place the cutouts on ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart for even baking.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still slightly soft. Once done, remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on racks for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Melt Chocolate
While your cookies cool, prepare the chocolate coating. In a double boiler or microwave, melt 8 ounces of dark chocolate until smooth and creamy, being cautious not to overheat. This should take about 1-2 minutes in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Dip the tops of the cooled Peppermint Bark Cookies into the dark chocolate, letting the excess drip back into the bowl.

Step 6: Drizzle White Chocolate
In a clean bowl, melt 4 ounces of white chocolate using the same method, ensuring it’s fluid for an easy drizzle. Once melted, use a fork or piping bag to create a beautiful white chocolate drizzle over the dark-coated cookies. This step adds an elegant touch, making your Peppermint Bark Cookies irresistible!

Step 7: Add Peppermint
While the white chocolate drizzle is still warm, lightly sprinkle ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies over the cookies, pressing gently so they adhere. This festive touch not only enhances the flavor but also gives each cookie a crunchy texture, adding to the overall appeal.

Step 8: Set
To ensure your delightful creations maintain their beautiful finish, place the decorated cookies in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set. Once firm, they’re ready to be enjoyed or packaged as lovely gifts for the season!

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Bark Cookies

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of your Peppermint Bark Cookies; it really makes a difference!
Correct Temperature: Allow chocolate to cool slightly before dipping; this ensures a smooth coating and prevents the cookies from melting the chocolate.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can result in dry cookies. They’re perfect when the edges are firm but the centers remain soft.
Chill Between Steps: Refrigerate cookies between dipping and drizzling to avoid messy layers; patience pays off for a beautiful finish.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in mint extract for a stronger mint flavor or try adding nuts for a delightful crunch in your Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Peppermint Bark Cookies: Fun Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to make these Peppermint Bark Cookies your own with a variety of delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a completely dairy-free treat. Enjoy the same rich flavor with a guilt-free twist.
Chewy Texture: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a chewier cookie that’s perfect for those who love a soft bite. It adds a hint of caramel flavor too!
Vegan Alternative: Replace the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to make these cookies vegan-friendly while still delighting your taste buds.
Extra Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for an amplified mint flavor. You’ll love the refreshing zing with every bite!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour mix to cater to gluten sensitivities without compromising taste. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Chocolate Lovers: Replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you’re a fan of sweeter profiles. It brings a different, but equally enjoyable flavor to these festive cookies.
Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra crunchy element. This addition brings a delightful surprise and heartiness to each cookie.
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough. It’s a daring twist that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness!
Caramel Drizzle: Instead of white chocolate, use caramel sauce for drizzling, creating a rich and delicious caramel-peppermint combination that will wow your guests.

These variations not only allow you to create your ideal Peppermint Bark Cookies but also inspire laughter and joy as you mix and match flavors to share with loved ones this holiday season! Don’t forget to explore more delightful cookie recipes like our Lava Brownie Cookies and Vanilla Waffle Cookies to elevate your baking game!

What to Serve with Chewy Peppermint Bark Cookies

Indulge in a delightful spread of flavors and textures while enjoying your soft and chewy holiday cookies.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: This classic drink complements the rich chocolate of the cookies, providing a warming touch during chilly nights.
Peppermint Latte: The inviting coffee aroma with a hint of peppermint enhances the festive spirit, creating a cozy atmosphere for gatherings.
Chocolate Fondue: A sumptuous dip offers a fun way to elevate your cookie experience, encouraging people to break apart the layers and share.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delectable contrast to the chewy textured cookies, balancing sweetness with richness.
Nutty Snack Mix: A blend of roasted nuts adds a satisfying crunch and savory element, making it a well-rounded accompaniment to the sweet indulgence.
Festive Fruit Platter: Bright fruits like oranges and pomegranates bring a refreshing, tart note, cutting through the richness of the cookies while adding seasonal colors.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: The fragrant spices in this beverage echo the holiday spirit, pairing beautifully with the peppermint flavors of your cookies for extra cheer.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These elegant treats bring a burst of fruity freshness alongside the peppermint chocolate flavors; a perfect way to impress at any event!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. If you’d like to go further, baked cookies can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before coating them in chocolate. When you’re ready to enjoy, just dip the cooled cookies in melted dark chocolate and drizzle with white chocolate as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, festive treats ready for serving or gifting with minimal effort, ensuring your holiday baking is as stress-free as possible!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and softness.

Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing: Freeze these delightful cookies for up to 3 months in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Peppermint Bark Cookies in the fridge overnight; this preserves their texture and flavor perfectly.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose unsalted butter softened at room temperature—it should be pliable but not oily. Select fresh eggs for optimal binding and moisture. When picking chocolate, go for high-quality bars or chips; they typically have better flavor profiles. For peppermint candies, opt for vibrant, unbroken candy canes without any dark spots or signs of age.

How should I store Peppermint Bark Cookies after baking?
To maintain their delightful chewiness and freshness, store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re in a warmer climate, you might want to keep them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for about 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving; the flavors truly come alive!

Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious cookies for up to 3 months! First, make sure the chocolate is completely set. Then, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies in the refrigerator overnight for the best taste and texture.

What should I do if my chocolate coating isn’t smooth?
Very! If your chocolate isn’t melting smoothly, it might be overheated or not tempered correctly. To fix this, gently reheat the chocolate using a double boiler on low heat or microwaving in 15-second intervals. Stir often. If the chocolate seems thick or grainy after melting, incorporate a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening, which helps smooth it out.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions available. For dairy-free or vegan cookies, replace the unsalted butter with margarine and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes). Additionally, for gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that your chocolate is dairy-free if you’re avoiding dairy!