As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar scent of peppermint and chocolate swirled around me, instantly transporting me to the cozy warmth of holiday gatherings. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Peppermint Bark Cookies: Festive Slice-and-Bake Treats that are as easy to prepare as they are delightful to taste. These cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture and the perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, making them a crowd-pleaser at any celebration. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they’re also a fun way to spread holiday cheer, whether shared with friends or wrapped up as a thoughtful gift. Ready to create some festive magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Peppermint Bark Cookies Special?
Festive Delight: These Peppermint Bark Cookies are the perfect treat to celebrate the holiday spirit. With a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, they’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
Effortless Preparation: Whip up a batch easily with basic baking skills, making them ideal for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: Experience the tender texture that melts away, reminiscent of traditional shortbread, leaving you craving more.
Customizable Fun: Feel free to swap ingredients! Try crushed nuts or seasonal sprinkles for a personal touch, ensuring every batch feels unique.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap these cookies as thoughtful gifts or serve them at festive gatherings. They’re sure to impress anyone lucky enough to receive them.
Time-Saving Recipe: These slice-and-bake cookies are not only delicious but also save time in the kitchen—perfect for busy holiday schedules! Check out my Pecan Pie Cookies and Pumpkin Pie Cookies for more easy treats to spread holiday cheer!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients
Transform your holiday baking with these delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tenderness to the cookies. Ensure butter is at room temperature for better mixing.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to a smooth texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. Use pure vanilla extract for best results.
- Table Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- Peppermint Oil – Infuses the cookies with a classic minty flavor. Adjust quantity based on preference.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies. Can be substituted for a gluten-free version, but these Peppermint Bark Cookies are superb as is.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds depth of flavor and rich chocolate notes. Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa for best results.
- Bittersweet Chocolate Wafers – Provides chunks of melted chocolate in the cookies. Chop from bars for cleaner cuts.
For the Toppings
- White Chocolate – Adds sweetness and creaminess.
- Crushed Hard Peppermint Candies – Offers a crunchy texture and vibrant mint flavor. Best to use natural brands like Atkinson’s for baking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies
Step 1: Beat the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, table salt, and peppermint oil. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 30 seconds until combined, and it appears creamy and smooth. This step sets the base for your Peppermint Bark Cookies, creating a rich, flavorful dough.
Step 2: Form the Cookie Dough
Gradually add all-purpose flour and cocoa powder to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue mixing until a smooth and cohesive dough forms, which should take around 30 seconds. The dough will have a deep chocolate color, indicating it’s ready for the next step. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients.
Step 3: Fold in the Chocolates and Peppermint
Once your dough is formed, gently fold in the bittersweet chocolate wafers, white chocolate, and crushed hard peppermint candies using a spatula. Aim for even distribution and incorporate these delightful additions for that perfect balance of flavors in your Peppermint Bark Cookies. This should take about 10 seconds of careful folding.
Step 4: Shape the Dough Log
Using parchment paper, transfer the dough and shape it into a log approximately 1.5 inches wide and 11 inches long. Ensure the log is uniform to allow for even slicing later. Wrap the shaped log tightly in the parchment and refrigerate it for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while firming up the dough for easier slicing.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This preparation step ensures that your Peppermint Bark Cookies will not stick to the sheets while baking and will come out perfectly golden.
Step 6: Slice the Cookies
Once ready, unwrap the chilled dough log and slice it into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there is some space between each cookie for spreading. The slices should look neat and slightly thick, promising a delightful texture when baked.
Step 7: Bake for Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through for even baking. You’ll know they are done when the edges look firm, and the tops start to crack slightly. The aroma of chocolate and peppermint filling your kitchen will be simply irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up, as they’ll be delicate when warm. Once they’ve set, transfer the Peppermint Bark Cookies to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy them at your holiday gatherings or share them as a delightful homemade gift!
What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies
Imagine the joy of curating the perfect holiday spread to accompany your delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies, where every bite invites warmth and celebration.
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Hot Chocolate Bar: A rich hot chocolate, with optional toppings like whipped cream and crushed candies, enhances the cookie’s peppermint flavor. It’s a cozy pairing to warm hearts during chilly gatherings.
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Gingerbread Pancakes: The spiced richness of gingerbread pancakes makes them a unique breakfast treat, adding a festive flair that complements the minty freshness of your cookies.
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Roasted Chestnuts: Their earthy flavor and comforting aroma evoke holiday nostalgia, creating a charming contrast to the sweetness of the Peppermint Bark Cookies.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider alongside for a refreshing yet warming drink. The fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint combination.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cooling and smooth texture, making every bite of the cookies even more indulgent and delightful.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits, bursting with freshness, provides a light and zesty complement to the rich flavors of your festive cookies.
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Pecan Pie Squares: Their nutty sweetness and chewy texture create a delightful contrast to the crisp, melt-in-your-mouth feel of the Peppermint Bark Cookies, making for a crowd-pleasing dessert duo.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 2 hours. This helps create clean slices and prevents spreading during baking.
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Accurate Slicing: Aim for consistent ½-inch thickness when slicing. Thinner cookies may crumble, while thicker ones might be doughy.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully on the baking sheets before transferring to racks. This ensures they firm up nicely and maintain their shape.
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Peppermint Quantity: Adjust the peppermint oil according to your taste preference. Start small; you can always add more if needed for stronger flavor!
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Mixing Technique: Be gentle when folding in the chocolates and crushed candies. This keeps their pieces intact, ensuring delightful bites in every cookie!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations
Feel free to make these Peppermint Bark Cookies uniquely yours with a few delightful twists!
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Nutty Delight: Replace crushed peppermint candies with finely chopped nuts for added crunch. Almonds or walnuts work beautifully, giving the cookies a rich flavor and texture.
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Festive Sprinkles: Swap out peppermint candies for seasonal sprinkles. This will not only add a festive color but also create a cheerful presentation for your holiday gatherings!
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Drizzled Chocolate: Enhance the cookies by drizzling melted dark or white chocolate over cooled cookies. This adds an irresistible visual touch and amplifies the sweet flavor.
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Mint Chocolate Chip: For an extra burst of minty flavor, incorporate mini chocolate chips along with the crushed peppermint candies. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising hint of heat. This unique twist contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate and peppermint.
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Swap Oils: Use orange oil instead of peppermint for a citrusy alternative. Combined with chocolate, it creates a refreshing and festive vibe in your baking.
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Cocoa Variations: Try using flavored cocoa powder, like raspberry or mocha, for an unexpected chocolatey flavor twist. Each variation will add a personalized flair to your cookies.
Don’t miss trying these variations and if you’re in need of more holiday inspiration, check out my Cider Whoopie Pie or Chocolate Oat Cookies for delicious ideas!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough log up to 4 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in parchment paper and then plastic wrap to ensure freshness. Just refrigerate the dough until you’re ready to bake. If you need even more time, the unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 1 month; simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before slicing. When it’s time to enjoy your cookies, just preheat the oven, slice them into rounds, and bake them as directed. You’ll have delicious, festive treats with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful texture.
Fridge: For an extended life, you can keep these Peppermint Bark Cookies in the refrigerator for up to two weeks—just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezer: The unbaked dough can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag; thaw in the fridge before slicing and baking.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat baked cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth goodness fresh out of the oven!
Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of peppermint oil should I use?
I recommend using high-quality peppermint oil for the best flavor. If you’re unsure, pure peppermint extract can also work as an alternative, though the flavor may be milder. Adjust the amounts according to your taste—start with a small amount and add more if desired!
How should I store my Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For even longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to two weeks, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Absolutely! The unbaked dough can be frozen for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before slicing and baking.
What if my cookie dough is too firm to slice?
If your dough has become too firm after chilling, don’t worry! Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it softens slightly, allowing for easier slicing without compromising the cookie’s texture.
Will these cookies be safe for my pet?
These Peppermint Bark Cookies contain ingredients like chocolate and peppermint oil, which are not safe for pets. Enjoy these festive treats yourself and keep them out of reach of our furry friends to ensure their safety!
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
To prevent excessive spreading, ensure your dough is properly chilled before slicing, and keep an eye on the thickness—aim for ½-inch slices. Baking on parchment paper can help, and consider checking your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure proper heat.
Peppermint Bark Cookies: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, table salt, and peppermint oil. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 30 seconds until combined.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour and cocoa powder to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a smooth and cohesive dough forms.
- Gently fold in the bittersweet chocolate wafers, white chocolate, and crushed hard peppermint candies using a spatula.
- Using parchment paper, transfer the dough and shape it into a log approximately 1.5 inches wide and 11 inches long. Wrap the log tightly in the parchment and refrigerate it for a minimum of 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Unwrap the chilled dough log and slice it into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through for even baking.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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