Peppermint Bark Cookies

Why make this recipe

Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful way to combine the flavors of peppermint and chocolate, making them perfect for the holiday season. These cookies have a soft and chewy texture, paired with a rich chocolate taste and a refreshing minty twist. Making these cookies at home can fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas, create lovely memories with family, and bring a smile to those you share them with. Plus, they make great gifts or party treats!

How to make Peppermint Bark Cookies

Making Peppermint Bark Cookies is straightforward and fun. Here’s a simple guide to follow:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until well combined.
5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
7. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until set.
8. While the cookies cool, melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle over the cookies.
9. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.
10. Allow the cookies to set before serving.

Nutritional benefits

Peppermint Bark Cookies can offer some benefits when enjoyed in moderation. The dark chocolate in these cookies can contain antioxidants, which are good for heart health. Peppermint can aid digestion and has refreshing properties that may help clear sinuses. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in your dessert. Although these cookies are a treat, they can still contribute to your happiness during festive times when shared with family and friends.

What to Serve With Peppermint Bark Cookies

Peppermint Bark Cookies pair beautifully with various beverages. Here are some ideas:

• Milk: A classic choice, cold milk complements the richness of the chocolate.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate.
• Coffee or Tea: A nice cup of coffee or peppermint tea can enhance the flavors of the cookies and provide a warm touch during cold days.
• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream can make for a delightful dessert combination.

Why You’ll Love This

You will love these Peppermint Bark Cookies for many reasons! They are simple to make, making them perfect for bakers of all levels. The balance between the dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint gives a unique flavor. They are visually appealing with their festive colors of white chocolate drizzled with crushed candy. These cookies make a sweet addition to any holiday cookie tray or party! Enjoying these cookies can also be a wonderful way to create lasting memories with loved ones.

How to store Peppermint Bark Cookies

To keep your Peppermint Bark Cookies fresh:

• Storing: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week.
• Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container with wax paper between layers. They can last for about three months in the freezer.
• Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cookies at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure to soften the butter to room temperature for easier creaming with sugars.
2. Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for precise measurements. Overpacking can lead to dry cookies.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven. They should be set but not hard. Remove them as soon as they look done.
4. Cool Before Decorating: Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with melted white chocolate to avoid a melty mess.
5. Chop Peppermint Candy Well: Ensure the peppermint candies are crushed finely, which helps them stick better to the chocolate drizzle.

Variations

While the classic Peppermint Bark Cookies are wonderfully delicious, you can try some variations for an extra twist:

• Mint Chocolate Chips: Substitute some dark chocolate chips with mint chocolate chips for an even stronger peppermint flavor.
• Use Different Chocolate: Try using semi-sweet chips instead of dark chocolate for a milder taste, or go for white chocolate chips for a sweeter cookie.
• Different Topping: Instead of crushed peppermint candies, consider using crushed nuts or sprinkles to give your cookies a different appearance and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cookies can be made a few days before you plan to serve them. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

3. What can I do if my dough is too soft?

If your dough feels too soft and sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This can help it firm up and make it easier to handle.

4. Can I add more peppermint candies?

Yes! If you love peppermint, feel free to add more crushed candies either into the dough or as a topping.

By following this guide, you can create delicious Peppermint Bark Cookies that will impress everyone. Enjoy the baking process and the delightful flavors of these festive treats!