As I unwrapped the parchment paper, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, taking me back to cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and sweet aromas. These Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful blend of tradition and fun, marrying the festive essence of peppermint bark with the simplicity of a slice-and-bake treat. With their meltaway texture and just the right touch of minty goodness, they are perfect for sharing at office parties or family get-togethers. Plus, they’re easy to whip up—ideal for those busy days filled with holiday cheer, and there’s even a gluten-free option, making them a hit for everyone. Ready to bring the joy of homemade cookies to your table? Let’s dive into this festive recipe and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas!
Why are Peppermint Bark Cookies a must-try?
Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies bring back fond memories of holiday gatherings filled with joy and sweetness.
Effortless Preparation: With their slice-and-bake method, you can easily whip these up, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the season.
Minty Delight: Each bite offers a meltaway texture complemented by delightful peppermint, ensuring everyone will love them.
Versatile Variations: Want to change things up? Try adding crushed candy canes for an extra holiday touch or explore other flavor options.
Ideal for pairing with hot cocoa, these Peppermint Bark Cookies will become a seasonal favorite. If you enjoy sharing, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies or Chocolate Chip Cookies for more delightful treats!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create your festive Peppermint Bark Cookies!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve the desired meltaway texture; no substitute recommended for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; use pure vanilla for a more robust taste.
- Table Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; sea salt can be substituted for a different texture.
- Peppermint Oil – Infuses the signature minty flavor; adjust quantity for a more or less intense mint flavor; peppermint extract can be an alternative.
- Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie base and structure; can be replaced with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Triple Cocoa Blend – Contributes a deep chocolate flavor; unsweetened cocoa powder can be used as a substitute.
For the Chocolate Mix-ins
- Bittersweet Chocolate Wafers – Adds rich chocolate chunks; substitute with dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips if needed.
- White Chocolate – Provides a creamy contrast; can be omitted for a darker cookie.
For the Topping
- Crushed Hard Peppermint Candies – Offers crunch and a festive look; use all-natural preferred options for better quality.
Get ready to make these delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies that everyone will rave about this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of table salt, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint oil until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be light and fluffy, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 2 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of triple cocoa blend into the butter mixture. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds until a uniform, soft dough forms. Be sure not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Once combined, its rich chocolate color will signal that you’re ready to add the fun mix-ins!
Step 3: Add Mix-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of bittersweet chocolate wafers, 1/2 cup of white chocolate chunks, and 1/2 cup of crushed hard peppermint candies using a spatula. Mix until everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds delightful layers to your Peppermint Bark Cookies, a tantalizing balance of crunchy and creamy looking forward.
Step 4: Shape Dough
Transfer the dough onto a piece of parchment paper and shape it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap it tightly in the parchment paper and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, or until firm. This chilling process is essential for easier slicing later on, so it’s worth the wait to ensure perfectly cut cookies.
Step 5: Preheat Oven
After chilling, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to soften slightly. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that as soon as you’re ready to bake your Peppermint Bark Cookies, the oven is at the right temperature for a consistent bake.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Once the dough has slightly softened, unwrap it and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place the slices on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until they are puffed and set, with a delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Allow the freshly baked Peppermint Bark Cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them firm up. Once fully cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer-lasting enjoyment of holiday cheer!
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies
These festive treats are sure to brighten up any holiday gathering, and pairing them with the right accompaniments elevates the experience to new heights.
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Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing, rich hot cocoa complements the minty flavor, providing warmth and comfort on cold winter nights.
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Coffee or Espresso: The deep, bold flavors of coffee enhance the cookie’s sweetness, making each bite a deliciously balanced event.
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Ice Cream: Vanilla or peppermint-flavored ice cream adds a creamy contrast, melting harmoniously with the cookie’s delightful crunch.
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Milk: A childhood favorite, ice-cold milk beautifully counteracts the sweetness, making it an ideal companion for these holiday cookies.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai contrast deliciously with peppermint’s freshness, offering a multi-layered flavor experience perfect for cozy evenings.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix brings brightness and zest, cutting through the richness of the cookies while providing a burst of freshness.
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Nutty Cheddar: Trying something savory? A slice of sharp cheddar brings an unusual but delightful combination that enhances the cookie’s sweetness.
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Homemade Eggnog: This rich and creamy drink, spiced just right, picks up the holiday spirit while creating a delightful contrast with the peppermint flavor.
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Gingerbread or Snickerdoodle Cookies: For a cookie platter, these spiced delights create a lovely variety of flavors and textures to share with friends and family.
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Brownies: Pairing with fudgy brownies adds texture contrast and satisfies every chocolate lover’s cravings during joyful celebrations.
Variations & Substitutions for Peppermint Bark Cookies
Customize your Peppermint Bark Cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences—let’s get creative in the kitchen!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a safe option that everyone can enjoy. King Arthur’s Measure for Measure works beautifully here!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter for a tasty dairy-free twist. You won’t miss the richness; the cookies will still be luxurious!
- Minty Freshness: Experiment by swapping peppermint oil for orange or almond extract for a different flavor profile. Imagine the refreshing citrus or nutty essence brightening your holiday gathering!
- Chocolate Lovers: Amplify the chocolate factor by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies. It adds a luscious touch and delightful contrast to the cookies’ texture.
- Candy Cane Crunch: Replace crushed hard peppermint candies with vibrant crushed candy canes for a festive visual and a delightful crunch. It’s an easy tweak that celebrates the spirit of the season!
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—into the dough for an added crunch and nutty flavor. This twist introduces a lovely depth, making every bite different.
- Seasonal Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced holiday flavor that warms the soul. It harmonizes beautifully with the mint and chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Alternative Sweeteners: Swap out confectioners’ sugar for your favorite sweetener, such as coconut or maple sugar, for a more natural option. Just keep in mind that texture might vary slightly.
For more scrumptious cookie ideas, don’t forget to check out my delicious Cinnamon Roll Cookies and scrumptious Chocolate Oat Cookies. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance. Simply shape the dough into a log, wrap it tightly in parchment paper, and store it in the fridge to maintain its fresh flavor and ideal texture. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before slicing and baking as instructed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Peppermint Bark Cookies ready with minimal effort, just in time for those festive gatherings!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies
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Chill Thoroughly: Ensure the dough is chilled for the recommended time; this prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
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Even Slices: Cut the dough into uniform slices to guarantee even baking. Using a sharp knife helps maintain clean edges.
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Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate wafers; they enhance the flavor profile of your Peppermint Bark Cookies.
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Mint Flavor Control: Adjust the amount of peppermint oil based on your preference for mintiness. Start with less if you’re unsure!
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Storage Matters: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze them instead.
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 meltaway texture.
Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, you can keep them in the fridge for an extra layer of protection against humidity, but they will last about the same time, up to 1 week.
Freezer: For longer preservation, these Peppermint Bark Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies in the fridge overnight for the best texture, or leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint oil for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint oil, look for high-quality, food-grade options. Pure peppermint oil provides a robust mint flavor, while peppermint extract can work in a pinch if you want to dial down the intensity. Remember, the more you add, the stronger the mint flavor, so adjust according to your preference!
What’s the best way to store leftover Peppermint Bark Cookies?
You’ll want to store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep their meltaway texture. If you’re in a humid climate, the fridge can also be an option, but they still last about the same time. Keep them chilly and cozy!
Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies, and how should I do it?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze your Peppermint Bark Cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Easy and delicious!
What if my cookie dough is too soft to slice?
No worries! If your dough feels too soft after chilling, pop it back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to firm up. The colder, the better! You can also try rolling the log in some parchment paper while shaping, as it might help maintain its stiff form.
Are Peppermint Bark Cookies safe for those with allergies?
Great question! Our Peppermint Bark Cookies contain dairy (butter and chocolate), gluten (all-purpose flour), and sugar, which can be allergens for many. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour blends, and check the labels on your chocolates and peppermint candies to ensure they’re allergy-friendly. Always consider communication before serving if doing so for a gathering.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free and still get the same taste?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative. Use dairy-free chocolate chips instead of bittersweet chocolate wafers, and ensure your peppermint candies are vegan-friendly. Mixing things up is part of the fun, so enjoy experimenting!
Peppermint Bark Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth This Holiday
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and peppermint oil until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 2: Gradually add flour and cocoa blend into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a uniform, soft dough forms.
- Step 3: Fold in chocolate wafers, white chocolate chunks, and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed.
- Step 4: Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in parchment, and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- Step 5: Allow the dough to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 6: Slice the dough into 1/2-inch thick rounds, place on parchment-lined baking sheets, and bake for 12-14 minutes.
- Step 7: Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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