The kitchen buzzes with excitement as the holiday season approaches, and nothing brings that festive spirit to life quite like a tray of cookies. This year, I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic. These cookies are not just your ordinary holiday treat; they combine the rich flavors of chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist, resulting in a chewy and aromatic delight that’s perfect for cookie exchanges and gatherings. Plus, they come together quickly, so you can whip up a batch and share the joy (or keep them all to yourself—it’s up to you!). Curious how to create these holiday masterpieces? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Irresistible Flavors: The unique fusion of rich chocolate and festive peppermint creates a delicious experience that instantly elevates your holiday desserts.
Quick to Prepare: You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen; these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies come together in no time, making them ideal for busy bakers.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cookie exchange or a family gathering, these treats are sure to impress and bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Texture Variety: Enjoy the delightful contrast between chewy cookies, creamy ganache, and crunchy peppermint bark, making each bite exciting.
Endless Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try swapping peppermint for almond extract or frost with cream cheese icing to create a whole new flavor experience!
Indulge in these festive cookies that pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa, or explore some more festive ideas with our Sugar Cookie Cheesecake for an additional treat!
Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free blend.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the cookies; sea salt works too.
• Baking Soda – Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the dough and adds texture; can be swapped with lemon juice.
• Unsalted Butter (2 sticks, room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture; allows for better sweetness control.
• Granulated Sugar (1¼ c. + ¼ c.) – For sweetness and texture; brown sugar can be used for extra moisture.
• Powdered Sugar (¾ c.) – Gives sweetness and a smooth texture to the cookies.
• Canola Oil (¾ c.) – Keeps the cookies moist; melted coconut oil makes a great alternative.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp.) – Adds a lovely flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Peppermint Extract (½ tsp.) – Infuses a minty flavor; adjust to your preference for extra zest.
• Eggs (2, room temperature) – Acts as a binding agent; ensure they’re at room temperature for the best mix.
• Red Jimmies Sprinkles (¼ c.) – Makes cookies festive; any decorative sprinkle can be used too.
For the Ganache Topping
• Dark Chocolate (1 c.) – Provides rich flavor for the ganache; high-quality chocolate really makes a difference.
• Heavy Cream (1 c.) – Forms the base of the ganache; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute.
For the Decoration
• Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares (36 mini) – The perfect topping; homemade peppermint bark works wonderfully too.
Get ready to bake these scrumptious Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies that will surely become a festive favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies will bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to create a non-stick surface for the cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar until well combined. This dry mix will provide the right structure for your cookies, so it’s important to ensure there are no lumps. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the next step.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a stand mixer, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter with both granulated sugars for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. The air incorporated during this process will help give your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies a tender texture, so be sure to mix well.
Step 4: Add the Liquid Ingredients
With the mixer on low, slowly drizzle in the canola oil, followed by the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs, adding them one at a time. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This step brings together the flavors of your cookie dough and is crucial for achieving moistness.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cookies. Once combined, gently fold in the red jimmies sprinkles to add a festive touch to your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into 2-inch balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out for even baking. Using a sugared glass, flatten each ball to about ½-inch thick. This shaping helps them bake evenly and gives a nice presentation.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 8 minutes. The cookies should look soft and slightly puffy when you take them out; they will firm up as they cool. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before moving them.
Step 8: Prepare the Ganache
While the cookies are cooling, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and stir until smooth. Let the ganache cool to room temperature, which will make it easier to spread.
Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
Once the ganache has cooled, use a spatula to evenly spread a layer of ganache over each cooled cookie. Top each cookie with a Ghirardelli peppermint bark square, pressing it gently into the ganache. This delightful finishing touch makes your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies not only tasty but beautiful as well.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies up to 3 days ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture. When you’re ready to finish them, simply prepare the ganache and assemble the cookies with peppermint bark just before serving. This approach ensures you have delicious holiday treats on hand without the last-minute rush, allowing you to enjoy your festive gatherings even more!
What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies
Savoring these delightful cookies can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary treats and beverages.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolaty warmth of hot cocoa mirrors the flavors in the cookies, creating a cozy experience perfect for chilly days.
- Freshly Brewed Coffee: A cup of coffee brings a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite feel indulgent and balanced.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast, enhancing the peppermint and chocolate flavors with every spoonful.
- Peppermint Tea: This herbal option accents the peppermint flavors within the cookies, offering a refreshing and aromatic pairing.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits, like strawberries or grapefruit, add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich and sweet cookie experience.
- Cookie Exchange Basket: Create a festive display of assorted cookies, including these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, for a delightful treat at holiday gatherings.
- Spiked Eggnog: For an adult twist, serve with spiked eggnog, where the creamy richness complements the festive flavors of the cookies.
- Chocolate Milk: Kids (and adults!) will love the sweet touch of chocolate milk, which pairs wonderfully with the cookie’s rich ganache.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Elevate your holiday spread by serving with spiced gingerbread cookies, combining the flavors of the season in one plate.
- Cheesecake: A slice of cheesecake creates a luxurious dessert option that can stand proudly next to your beautiful holiday cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies
Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days; this will keep them fresh and chewy.
Refrigeration: If you prefer, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Enjoy them chilled or allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped cookies in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back warmth and softness, microwave cookies for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their delightful chewy texture.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Customization
Indulge your creativity as you make this recipe your own, allowing flavors to entice your senses!
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Almond Extract: Swap peppermint extract for almond extract for a delightful nutty flavor twist.
Almond will add a warm richness, creating a unique holiday cookie that’s just as festive. -
Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs and coconut oil for a plant-based treat.
These swaps keep the cookies deliciously rich while accommodating your vegan friends or family! -
Chocolate Variants: Experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache.
Each chocolate type brings a new flavor profile, perfect for all chocolate lovers out there. -
Sugar-Free Option: Substitute granulated and powdered sugar with your favorite sugar alternative.
This way, you can enjoy the cookies without the guilt—just ensure the texture remains appealing. -
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
Everyone can join in the holiday cheer with these delectable cookies that cater to dietary needs! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger for a subtle heat.
This small touch can elevate the flavor profile, perfect for those who love a dash of spice in their sweets. -
Cream Cheese Frosting: Frost with cream cheese icing instead of ganache for a tangy twist.
The creaminess of the frosting complements the sweetness of the cookie beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser! -
Festive Decor: Top cookies with assorted holiday sprinkles for colorful cheer.
Decorating with sprinkles can elevate your presentation, making your tray a stunning centerpiece for gatherings!
Dive into the holiday season with these delightful enhancements, and don’t forget to pair your creations with some cozy hot cocoa or coffee! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at our Triple Chocolate Mousse for dessert perfection?
Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars; this is key for texture.
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Uniform Dough Balls: Roll the dough into uniform balls to ensure even baking, avoiding overbaking that can make cookies dry.
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Cooling Time: Don’t skip letting the cookies cool. They should be soft when coming out of the oven, as they will harden while cooling.
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Ganache Waiting Game: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before spreading it on the cookies, ensuring a smoother finish that looks beautiful.
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Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the peppermint extract in the cookie dough to suit your taste; the joy of these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies is in personal preference!
Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for these cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the perfect structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works well as a substitute, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delightful treats.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can place the container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze your cookies after they cool completely. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before digging in!
What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively, it could be due to overly warm dough or too much fat. Make sure to chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Also, check that your butter is at the right temperature—not too melted!
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
It’s important to note that chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Ensure that no cookies are accessible to your pets. If you have a pet-friendly household, consider making a dog-safe treat separately that they can enjoy during the festive season!
Can I adjust the peppermint flavor?
Certainly! If you prefer a more intense mint flavor, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract. Start by adding an extra 1/4 teaspoon, mix, and taste; you can always add more to suit your personal preference for these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies for Festive Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar in a mixing bowl.
- Using a stand mixer, cream the unsalted butter and both granulated sugars for about 2 minutes until fluffy.
- Slowly drizzle in the canola oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs one at a time, mixing until combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and fold in the red jimmies sprinkles.
- Scoop the dough and roll into 2-inch balls; flatten each ball to about ½-inch thick on the baking sheet.
- Bake for approximately 8 minutes until soft and slightly puffy.
- Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan and pour it over chopped dark chocolate, stirring until smooth.
- Once the ganache cools, spread it over each cookie and top with a peppermint bark square.
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