Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies

Creating the perfect holiday treat can feel daunting, but this Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies recipe merges the fudgy indulgence of brownie mix with festive peppermint flair. The simplicity of using a boxed brownie mix ensures a consistent texture while still allowing you to personalize the flavors. Topped with white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, each bite delivers a delightful crunch that enhances the velvety brownie base. So, whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or craving something sweet during a cozy night in, these cookies are the way to go. They promise to fill your home with an inviting aroma and warm festive vibes. Get ready to whisk up some holiday magic in your kitchen!

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works beautifully because it brings together familiar elements in a new way. The fudgy brownie mix creates a rich base that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Since you’re starting with a boxed brownie mix, you cut down on prep time and can focus on customizing the flavor. Adding peppermint extract gives these cookies a refreshing kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the toppings. White chocolate drizzled on top not only looks gorgeous but balances the intense chocolate taste, while crushed candy canes add a festive crunch. Overall, the combination of flavors and textures in these Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies makes them a delightful addition to your holiday treat lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies

These delightful cookies are not only visually appealing but also capture the essence of the holiday season with their minty flavor. They’re quick to prepare and make an excellent addition to any cookie platter, holiday gift, or cozy night in. Imagine gathering your loved ones around a plate of these scrumptious treats, each cookie offering a warm, comforting bite that feels like a holiday hug. The vibrant colors of the white chocolate and crushed candy canes evoke festive cheer, making these cookies a joy to both bake and taste. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll find that they quickly become a favorite in your holiday traditions.

Ingredients

• 1 (18 ounce) box of fudge brownie mix (recommended: Duncan Hines)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 teaspoons vegetable shortening
• 1/3 cup crushed candy canes

Preparing the Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your cookies bake properly. While your oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Doing this makes cleanup a breeze and prevents any sticky situations.

Mix the Brownie Batter

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the boxed fudge brownie mix, all-purpose flour, canola oil, large eggs, and peppermint extract. Stir everything well until you see a smooth and glossy batter. It’s fun to see how quickly all the ingredients come together!

Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Now, it’s time to add more chocolate. Gently fold in 2/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step is essential as it guarantees that every cookie will have a rich pocket of chocolatey goodness. Make sure to do this carefully, so you don’t overmix the batter.

Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 1 1/2 inches of space between each cookie. This is important to ensure they have room to spread while baking. To help them bake evenly, flatten the scoops slightly with your palm.

Bake the Cookies

Now, pop those cookies into your preheated oven. Bake for about 8-10 minutes. You want the edges to be set, but the centers should still feel soft—this will give you that wonderfully chewy texture. As you take them out, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes; this will make transferring them much easier.

Cool and Prepare the Topping

Once you’ve cooled your cookies for a bit, carefully move them to a wire rack. Now it’s time to prepare the decadent topping! In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and vegetable shortening. Use short 20-second increments, stirring well in between, until it’s smooth and ready to drizzle.

Decorate with White Chocolate and Candy Canes

Grab a spoon and spread a generous layer of melted white chocolate over each cooled cookie. Don’t forget to sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still warm, allowing them to stick beautifully. This not only adds a pop of color but also gives a crunchy finish to your cookies.

Allow to Set

Now, let your decorated cookies sit for about 20-30 minutes so that the white chocolate can firm up. This is the perfect time to clean up your kitchen and maybe sneak a bite of one of those warm cookies!

Serving Suggestions

These Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings. Serve them alongside a chilled glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy experience. They also make fabulous gifts! Just package them in festive tins or pretty boxes. Everyone appreciates a homemade treat, especially during the holidays.

Tips for Success

• For better mixing, use room temperature eggs; they incorporate more easily.
• Don’t overbake your cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake; this helps maintain that desirable soft texture.
• If you love a little extra crunch and color, feel free to add more crushed candy canes on top before the chocolate hardens.

Variations

If you want to switch it up, consider swapping the peppermint extract for almond or vanilla extract. This will give your cookies a unique flavor profile. Alternatively, you might replace the crushed candy canes with crushed walnuts or pecans for a nutty twist that completes the chocolate base.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want even longer freshness, freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly for the freezer.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies shine when paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. You could also serve them alongside various other holiday treats during your next gathering, providing a lovely variety that everyone will enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips for a different flavor.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for edges that appear set, while the center should still feel a bit soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can indeed! Refrigerate the prepared dough, just allow it to come to room temperature before you bake.

4. What can I substitute if I don’t have peppermint extract?
If you’re low on peppermint extract, you can use vanilla extract or simply leave it out for a delicious chocolate-only cookie.

5. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Yes, once cooled, wrap the baked cookies snugly and store them in the freezer.

These Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies are an irresistible holiday dessert that brings together rich cocoa taste with refreshing peppermint flavor. Complemented by the sweetness of white chocolate and candy canes, they are perfect for every occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones!

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