Peppermint Bark Cookies – Sweet Holiday Treats to Delight Your Guests

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Introduction

Tis the season for warmth, joy, and sweet indulgences! Peppermint Bark Cookies combine the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate, creating a festive treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are soft, chewy, and studded with both semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, all while having a delightful crunch from crushed peppermint candies. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Overview of the Recipe

Expect an irresistible blend of flavors and textures when making these Peppermint Bark Cookies. The combination of sweet chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a festive aroma that fills your kitchen. The cookies are straightforward to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have a batch of holiday cheer ready in no time!

History and Origin

Peppermint bark traces its roots back to North America, where it has become a beloved holiday candy. Traditional bark typically layers dark chocolate with white chocolate and is topped with crushed peppermint candies. The evolution of this treat into cookie form is a joyous adaptation, allowing the same beloved flavors to be enjoyed in a portable and shareable form. Baking cookies during the holiday season is a way to bring family together and share traditions, and these cookies certainly play a part in that legacy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 3 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

– 1 cup white chocolate chips

– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)

– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

6. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, crushed peppermint candies, and peppermint extract until evenly distributed.

7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.

9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

10. Melt some extra white chocolate and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a festive touch. Sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint for garnish.

11. Let the cookies set for a few minutes until the chocolate hardens. Serve and enjoy the delicious holiday flavors!

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

These Peppermint Bark Cookies pair beautifully with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a warm spiced latte. They’re perfect for holiday cookie trays, office parties, or as a sweet treat to leave for Santa. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!

Variations of the Recipe

For those with dietary restrictions, consider these swaps:

– Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips for a vegan version.

– Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

– Add a touch of almond extract alongside peppermint for a unique flavor twist.

Health Benefits and Notes

Peppermint has been known to aid digestion, while dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants. Although these cookies are a treat, using high-quality chocolate can enhance their antioxidant properties. For a healthier twist, you could try reducing the sugar or using applesauce as a partial sugar substitute.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Portion the dough into balls, freeze them, then bake them directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are an extraordinary way to celebrate the holiday season with their festive flavors and delightful appearance. Easy to make and fun to share, this recipe is worth trying and perfect for making new traditions. We encourage you to experiment with the recipe, and we’d love to hear your feedback! Happy baking!

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