Peppermint Bark Cookies

Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that will bring joy to your kitchen and warmth to your celebrations. Picture this: rich chocolate flavors mingling with the refreshing essence of peppermint, resulting in cookies that are cute and full of deliciousness. The moment you take a bite, you experience buttery crispness paired with a silky frosting, making these cookies perfect for sharing. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party or looking for something comforting to enjoy by the fire, this recipe is just the ticket.

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So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create these festive Peppermint Bark Cookies together. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies to evoke the spirit of the season. Let’s get started on this fun culinary adventure!

Why This Recipe Works

Peppermint Bark Cookies combine rich chocolate flavors with the refreshing taste of peppermint, resulting in a delightful holiday treat. The balance of buttery crispness and a silky, creamy frosting makes every bite a joyous experience.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Cookies

These cookies are not just visually appealing, adorned with festive crushed candy canes, but they also burst with flavor—the perfect embodiment of seasonal cheer. A simple recipe guarantees satisfaction whether you’re sharing them at a holiday party or enjoying them by the fireplace.

Ingredients

• ½ cup sweet cream butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ½ cup white granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 cup unsalted sweet cream butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup confectioner’s sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 10 candy canes (crushed)

Mixing the Cookie Dough

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup of sweet cream butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of white granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Eggs and Flavorings

Add in 3 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup. Mix until well combined. The key here is to ensure everything is blended smoothly for that perfect cookie texture.

Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons baking soda, and 1 teaspoon Kosher salt. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. You’ll know it’s ready when it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Shape the Cookies

Using a large ice cream scooper, form the dough into balls and place them on a lined cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly flatten each ball into uniform circles. Make sure they have some room to spread without touching each other.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-17 minutes. They should be slightly soft in the center. Let cool on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them set perfectly.

Making the Frosting

Combine Frosting Ingredients

In a standing mixer, beat together 1 cup of unsalted sweet cream butter, ½ cup of confectioner’s sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of pure peppermint extract until creamy and thick. Aim for a consistency that holds its shape but spreads easily.

Frost the Cookies

Transfer the frosting into a piping bag, then pipe a lovely spiral onto each cooled cookie. This decorative touch not only adds a festive flair but also enhances the deliciousness.

Add Candy Cane Topping

Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the frosted cookies, ensuring they stick while the frosting is still soft. Allow the frosting to harden for about an hour. The candy canes not only add crunch but a pop of festive color too.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Peppermint Bark Cookies on a festive platter as a centerpiece for any holiday dessert table. You can also package them in decorative boxes as delightful gifts for friends and family. They make great presents that show you care!

Tips for Success

• Ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best emulsification. It really makes a difference in texture!
• Don’t overbake! Keep a close eye on the cookies as they approach the cooking time to retain their softness. A slight underbake is okay.
• If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before shaping. This will make it much easier to handle.

Variations

• Substitute crushed peppermint sticks with other toppings, such as chopped nuts or drizzle with white chocolate for a different taste.
• For a twist, incorporate orange zest into the frosting for a delightful chocolate-orange peppermint experience. The citrus adds a nice brightness!

Storage Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer preservation, freeze the cookies before frosting in a sealed bag for up to three months. They retain their flavor, and you can frost them later for fresh cookies any time.

Pairing Ideas

Pair these delightful cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate, mint tea, or coffee to enhance their flavors. Each cookie becomes a snack to savor with your favorite beverage, making cozy moments even better.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save time when you’re busy!

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. It’s just as fun to bake for everyone.

3. Can I use different extracts?
Absolutely! Try using almond or vanilla extract to add a unique flavor twist. Experimentation in the kitchen often leads to delightful surprises.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for about an hour before baking helps control spreading, which is key for properly shaped cookies.

5. What should I do if the frosting is too runny?
Add additional confectioner’s sugar gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. You want it thick enough to hold its shape!

Soft, decadent, and bursting with festive flavors, these Peppermint Bark Cookies are more than just a treat. They are a delicious way to share the holiday spirit and make memories with loved ones. Enjoy them fresh or pack them up as gifts for a truly festive experience!

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