The scent of peppermint bark cookies wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet aroma of chocolate and the fresh zing of peppermint. Each bite is a delightful crunch that brings out a symphony of flavors, making your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine cozying up by the fireplace with a warm mug of cocoa as you indulge in these festive treats.
These cookies are not just a dessert; they are a celebration. Whether it’s holiday gatherings or simply treating yourself on a chilly afternoon, peppermint bark cookies are sure to elevate your mood and bring smiles all around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These peppermint bark cookies are ridiculously easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
- The combination of chocolate and mint creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will adore.
- Visually, they’re stunning with their festive colors, making them a delightful addition to your holiday cookie platter.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for gifting or sharing at parties!
Ingredients for peppermint bark cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, it gives the cookies their delightful chewy texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Baking Soda: This ingredient helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect fluffy consistency.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; even sweet treats need a dash of salt!
- Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing; it adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly, creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth of flavor; don’t skip this one!
- Eggs: They bind everything together and give the cookies their tender crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances flavor; always opt for pure vanilla if possible.
- Peppermint Extract: This is where the magic happens! The extract gives those cookies their signature minty flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips will add decadent chunks throughout each cookie.
- Candy Canes: Crush them up for sprinkling on top; they add crunch and festive flair!
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). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking—nobody wants a cookie tragedy!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your cookie mix.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes—don’t rush it; patience pays off in cookie land!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavors
Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract and peppermint extract for that refreshing kick.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually fold in your dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender cookies here!
Step 6: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you can resist eating some straight from the bowl… well done!
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake in preheated oven for about ten to twelve minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Transfer to plates once cooled slightly on sheets—don’t forget those crushed candy canes sprinkled on top for added flair! Enjoy while cozying up under your favorite blanket with hot cocoa or share them during festive gatherings—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!
You Must Know
- These delightful peppermint bark cookies combine the rich decadence of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint.
- They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, and they’re surprisingly easy to make.
- You can whip up a batch in no time, impressing friends and family alike!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting your chocolate carefully; then mix in crushed peppermint candies while your cookie dough chills. Bake the cookies until golden, adding a sprinkle of crushed candy on top right before they cool for that extra festive touch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out dark chocolate for white chocolate or even milk chocolate if you want a sweeter bite. Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for texture, or replace peppermint with orange zest for a citrus twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your peppermint bark cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to reheat them, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to soften without melting.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making peppermint bark cookies, ensure your chocolate is at the right temperature before mixing to avoid clumps.
- Give your cookies space on the baking sheet so they can spread evenly.
- For extra crunch, use coarsely crushed candy canes instead of fine bits.
Sometimes I think my kitchen gets more visitors during cookie season than my living room! Friends line up just to snag these peppermint bark cookies—it’s like having my very own cookie fan club!
FAQs:
What are peppermint bark cookies?
Peppermint bark cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint. These cookies typically feature a chocolate base, topped with a layer of white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies. They are perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet gift during the holiday season. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a popular choice among cookie lovers, especially during Christmas.
How do I store peppermint bark cookies?
To keep your peppermint bark cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to maintain their crispness, consider adding a piece of parchment paper between layers of cookies. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.
Can I customize the ingredients in peppermint bark cookies?
Absolutely! You can customize your peppermint bark cookies by using different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, depending on your taste preferences. Additionally, feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed nuts or different flavored extracts to create unique variations. This flexibility allows you to make these cookies suit your personal style while still delivering that signature peppermint flavor.
Are peppermint bark cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, peppermint bark cookies make an excellent gift option! Their festive appearance and delicious flavor are sure to impress friends and family alike. You can package them in decorative tins or boxes for a charming presentation. Whether for holiday parties or as thoughtful treats, these cookies convey warmth and cheer during the holiday season.
Conclusion for peppermint bark cookies:
Peppermint bark cookies stand out as a festive treat combining rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. Their easy preparation makes them ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Storing these delightful cookies properly ensures they remain fresh, allowing you to enjoy them over time or share with loved ones. With endless customization options available, these cookies are not just delicious but also fun to personalize according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making and sharing this festive delight during the holiday season!
Peppermint Bark Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the joy of peppermint bark cookies, where rich chocolate meets refreshing mint for a festive treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about three minutes).
- Add the egg, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Swap dark chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate for varied sweetness. Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
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