As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of melting chocolate mixed with the invigorating scent of peppermint transported me straight to a winter wonderland. These Festive Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful slice-and-bake treat that perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays. Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also make for charming gifts or a cheerful addition to any holiday gathering. The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a refreshing crunch of peppermint and velvety chocolate truly creates a festive symphony of flavors. Plus, with a gluten-free option, everyone can join in on the joy of this seasonal scrumptiousness! Curious to see just how easy it is to bring this holiday magic into your home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Make Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Festive Vibes: These cookies are the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit, bringing a delightful twist to your traditional cookie platter.
Easy to Prepare: With a simple slice-and-bake method, you can whip up these treats in no time, leaving you with more moments to enjoy your festivities.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: The smooth texture and chocolatey flavor make every bite an indulgent experience, reminiscent of a luxurious dessert.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up with different flavored extracts or add nuts for a unique taste that everyone will love!
Great for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a festive tin, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift that’s sure to impress friends and family.
Pair these with a warm beverage, just like my Cinnamon Roll Cookies, for an unbeatable treat!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a creamy, dairy-free option.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and a smooth texture; consider powdered erythritol for a low-sugar alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; use almond extract for a unique twist on taste.
- Table Salt – Balances sweetness; omit for low-sodium diets or use kosher salt for a coarser texture.
- Peppermint Oil – Gives a strong mint flavor; reduce quantity or use peppermint extract for a milder taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the main structural component; substitute with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour for gluten-free cookies.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds depth and color; consider Dutch-process cocoa for a richer flavor.
For the Chocolate Mix
- Bittersweet Chocolate Wafers – Provide chocolate flavor and texture; use semisweet chocolate if preferred.
- White Chocolate – Adds sweetness and creaminess; substitute with more bittersweet chocolate for a darker option.
For the Topping
- Crushed Hard Peppermint Candies – Provides crunch and holiday flavor; use crushed candy canes or omit for a chocolate-only version.
These Peppermint Bark Cookies are not only festive but also super easy to make, allowing everyone to join in the fun this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar until smooth—approximately 30 seconds should do. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint oil, mixing just until the ingredients are fully combined, resulting in a creamy and fluffy texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the mixing bowl, mixing on low speed. Continue until a uniform dough forms, about 30 seconds. You’ll notice the dough should be smooth and slightly sticky, showing that the flour and cocoa are well incorporated into your peppermint bark cookies.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolate and Candy
Gently fold in 1 cup of bittersweet chocolate wafers, 1/2 cup of white chocolate, and 1/2 cup of crushed hard peppermint candies using a spatula. This process should take about 10 seconds; aim for a uniform mixture where the chocolate chunks and peppermint pieces are evenly distributed throughout your dough.
Step 4: Shape and Chill the Dough
Remove the dough from the bowl and shape it into a log, using parchment paper or a Slice-and-Bake Cookie Dough Keeper for easy handling. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the dough to firm up and maintain its shape while slicing for the peppermint bark cookies.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and do not stick to the sheets, maintaining their lovely festive look as they turn golden brown.
Step 6: Slice the Chilled Dough
Once chilled, unwrap the dough and slice it into 1/2-inch thick cookies using a serrated knife for clean cuts. Arrange the sliced cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each one to account for spreading while baking, ensuring your peppermint bark cookies have room to puff up nicely.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through for even baking. Your cookies should be puffed and no longer wet in the center—watch closely, as over-baking can lead to a dry texture instead of the desired melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Allow the baked peppermint bark cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes prior to transferring them. They will be fragile when warm, so taking your time during this step ensures they maintain their delightful shape and texture, ready to be enjoyed or gifted!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Peppermint Bark Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into a log, wrapping it in parchment paper, and refrigerating. To maintain quality, make sure the dough is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy these holiday treats, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking. This way, you’ll have freshly baked Peppermint Bark Cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or surprise holiday gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just keep them in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough logs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking for fresh peppermint bark cookies.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover cookies, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back that freshly baked taste and softness.
What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Bark Cookies
Indulging in these festive delights opens up a world of pairing possibilities that amplify their holiday charm.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: The creamy delight of a steaming cup pairs beautifully, enhancing the cookies’ festive peppermint flavor. A sprinkle of marshmallows on top adds an irresistible touch!
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider offers a comforting contrast to the cookies’ sweet crunch, creating a wonderful holiday experience with every sip.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy treat transforms your peppermint bark cookies into a decadent dessert. The cold creaminess beautifully balances the minty flavors.
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Coffee or Espresso: Brewed coffee adds a warm, rich undertone, while espresso’s boldness complements the chocolate and mint, creating a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
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Peppermint Tea: Keep the theme going with peppermint tea. Its soothing aroma and flavor enhance the festive spirit, making for a cozy pairing during the winter months.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Add a touch of elegance with these fruit treats. Their sweetness offers a lovely contrast to the minty cookies, making each bite a delightful surprise.
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Holiday Fruitcake: Introduce a chewy, fruity counterpart to your cookies. The rich flavors of fruitcake pair humorously with the minty chocolate, adding festive cheer to your platter.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Classic gingerbread brings warmth and spice, enhancing the overall holiday experience. Their chewy texture contrasts wonderfully with the crispness of the peppermint bark cookies.
With these delightful pairings, your festive cookie spread will be the talk of the holiday season!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for even mixing and a creamy texture—it makes a world of difference in your peppermint bark cookies!
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours; this step helps maintain the shape of the cookies while baking, preventing any spreading.
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Use a Serrated Knife: For clean, even cuts, slice the chilled dough with a serrated knife. This ensures your peppermint bark cookies look as delectable as they taste.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking! Over-baking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for puffed cookies that are no longer wet in the center.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets. They’re fragile when warm, so patience here keeps them intact and delightful for your holiday gatherings!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these festive Peppermint Bark Cookies, enhancing both flavor and texture to suit your taste!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour to keep everyone at the table happy.
- Dairy-Free: Use margarine instead of unsalted butter, and enjoy the same rich taste without the dairy.
- Nutty Surprise: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful texture contrast, enhancing each bite with nutty goodness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip baked cookies in melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist that adds richness and satisfies chocolate cravings!
- Mint Variations: Experiment with different flavored extracts like almond or orange to surprise your taste buds with a unique flair.
- Lower Sugar: Swap confectioners’ sugar for powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar cookie option, making treats a little healthier.
- Chewy Edition: For a chewier texture, add an extra egg yolk to the dough and reduce flour slightly; it will keep things moist and delicious.
- Spiced Up: Toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic holiday spice that will make your kitchen smell divine!
These adaptable variations ensure your Peppermint Bark Cookies will be a showstopper at any gathering. For a cozy beverage pairing, consider serving them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or my delightful Chocolate Chip Cookies. You can even try them with my seasonal Spiced Apple Cookies for a festive treat!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Absolutely use unsalted butter! It provides richness and moisture, essential for the melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, margarine can be a good substitute.
How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough?
For best results, ensure your baking soda and powder are within their expiration dates—this is crucial for the cookies to rise properly. Also, check for dark spots on butter, which can indicate spoilage. Fresh cocoa powder and chocolate should smell rich and chocolaty; if they’re stale, they can compromise flavor.
Can I make Peppermint Bark Cookies gluten-free?
Very! To create a gluten-free version of these festive cookies, simply substitute all-purpose flour with King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour. This will give you a similar texture, allowing everyone to indulge in the holiday spirit.
How should I store my Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful flavor and texture. If you prefer chilled cookies, they can last for up to 2 weeks in the fridge—but make sure to keep them sealed well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and baking. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies whenever the craving hits!
Peppermint Bark Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugar until smooth, then add vanilla extract, salt, and peppermint oil.
- Combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture until a uniform dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate wafers, white chocolate, and crushed peppermint candies.
- Shape dough into a log, wrap it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Slice chilled dough into 1/2-inch thick cookies and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, watching for puffed cookies that are no longer wet in the center.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring.
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