Name: Peppermint Bark Cookies That'll Spark Your Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter (Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.); 1 large egg (Can use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for better flavor.); 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (Gluten-free flour can substitute for a gluten-free option.); ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Ensure it’s unsweetened for balance.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.); a pinch salt (Smoked salt can add a unique twist.); 1 cup dark chocolate (Choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.); ½ cup white chocolate (White chocolate chips can substitute.); ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies (Candy canes work well; crush them in a ziplock bag.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of melting chocolate mingling with the sharp bite of peppermint transported me to fond holiday memories. These Peppermint Bark Cookies are my sweet homage to festive nostalgia, marrying a rich, chocolatey cookie base with an irresistible peppermint crunch. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire, this recipe offers a delightful twist on classic flavors with the bonus of being incredibly simple to whip up. Plus, they make stunning gifts when wrapped in decorative packaging! Are you ready to indulge in these festive treats that will surely impress family and friends? Let’s dive in together!

Why are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Festive Delight: These Peppermint Bark Cookies are a celebration of flavors that instantly elevate your holiday spirit. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time. Visual Appeal: The drizzled white chocolate and vibrant peppermint bits make these treats a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped up beautifully, they’re the ideal homemade gift for friends and family. A Crowd Favorite: Rich, chewy, and nostalgically festive, they’re guaranteed to spark joy at any gathering, making them a must-bake for this season!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and a soft texture. Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s structure. Can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients, adding moisture. Can use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth. Use pure vanilla for better flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies. Gluten-free flour can substitute for a gluten-free option.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Introduces a deep chocolate flavor. Ensure it’s unsweetened for balance.
Baking Powder – Provides lift for a softer cookie. Make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor. A pinch is sufficient; smoked salt can add a unique twist.

For the Coating

Dark Chocolate – Coating that provides richness. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.
White Chocolate – Used for drizzling, provides sweetness and contrast. White chocolate chips can substitute.

For Topping

Crushed Peppermint Candies – Adds festive crunch and flavor. Candy canes work well; crush them in a ziplock bag.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by creaming ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add one large egg and a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth and well combined. In another bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, forming a soft dough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of ¼ inch. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are firm but the centers are still soft. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Coat Cookies
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the chocolate coating by melting 1 cup of dark chocolate using a double boiler or in a microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted and smooth. Once the cookies have cooled, dip the tops into the melted dark chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the coated cookies on a sheet of parchment paper to let them set, about 10-15 minutes, ensuring a delightful and rich layer of chocolate.

Step 4: Decorate
Once the dark chocolate has set, it’s time for the final festive touch! Melt ½ cup of white chocolate using the same method as before and then drizzle it over the cookies in a zigzag pattern. Sprinkle the tops generously with crushed peppermint candies for that signature crunch and festive color. Allow the cookies to set in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes until the decorations are firm, transforming your Peppermint Bark Cookies into a holiday masterpiece.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these scrumptious peppermint bark cookies to suit your taste!

Nutty Cookies: Substitute half the flour with ground almonds for a delightful nutty crunch.
Milk Chocolate Twist: Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, creamier coating that kids will adore.
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg made from 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for a vegan alternative.
Espresso Infusion: Add a dash of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate richness with a delightful espresso kick.
Spicy Touch: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate coating for an unexpected warmth that balances the sweetness.
Minty Green: Swap the crushed peppermint candies for crushed pistachios to add color and a unique flavor contrast that’s equally festive.
White Chocolate Ganache: Transform the white chocolate drizzle into a ganache by mixing equal parts white chocolate and heavy cream for a creamy, luxurious topping.
Orange Zest Boost: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated orange zest into the cookie dough for a citrusy aroma that harmonizes beautifully with peppermint.

Embrace the joy of baking! For more delightful twists on classic desserts, you might enjoy exploring our recipe for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies or our scrumptious Gingerbread Cookie Recipe. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies

As the delightful aroma of chocolate and peppermint fills the air, it’s the perfect time to create a complete magical holiday spread.

Festive Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy hot cocoa topped with whipped cream perfectly matches the flavors of peppermint and chocolate, turning your snack into an indulgent treat.
Classic Gingerbread: The warm spices from gingerbread cookies provide a lovely contrast to the refreshing mint, offering a balanced flavor experience that delights the taste buds.
Roasted Chestnuts: These earthy, nutty treats add a comforting crunch and rustic vibe to your holiday table, complementing the sweetness of your peppermint bark cookies.
Creamy Eggnog: This traditional holiday drink, with its rich spices and creamy texture, pairs beautifully with the cookies, enhancing the festive spirit of your gathering.
Fruit Salad with Citrus: A bright, refreshing fruit salad featuring oranges and pomegranates cuts through the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to your holiday spread.
Chocolate Mint Fudge: For the ultimate chocolate lovers, this fudge echoes the flavors of your cookies, making it a delightful sweet pairing that feels luxurious.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices of mulled wine create a cozy atmosphere and enhance the flavors of peppermint in the cookies, making for a perfect holiday pairing.
Caramel Cheesecake Bars: These decadent bars lend a luscious creaminess and slight saltiness, beautifully contrasting with the sweet peppermint-infused cookies and creating a dessert lover’s dream.
Nutty Biscotti: Dipped in coffee or cocoa, these crunchy cookies introduce comforting nuttiness that provides another texture element to your holiday spread, enhancing enjoyment.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavors.

Fridge: If you prefer your Peppermint Bark Cookies chilled, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container. This can also help the chocolate coating stay firm.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave a frozen cookie for about 15-20 seconds, or allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing and texture. Cold butter will make it difficult to achieve that fluffy consistency.
Check Your Baking Powder: Always ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired powder can lead to flat cookies. An easy test is to mix it with a bit of vinegar—if it bubbles, it’s good!
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, instead of the soft, chewy texture we want in these Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate for melting. It will give your cookies a smooth and rich flavor, enhancing that decadent chocolate experience.
Freshly Crushed Peppermint: When crushing your peppermint candies, aim for a uniform size. Too large and they won’t adhere well; too small, and they might melt into your cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, making your holiday baking so much easier! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it to keep it fresh. Alternatively, after baking, the cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days without losing their tender texture. Just before you’re ready to serve, melt your chocolate and dip the cookie tops, allowing them to set for about 10-15 minutes. This way, your festive treats will still taste just as delightful and look stunning for any gathering!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, ensure your butter is at room temperature—this enhances the creaming process. When selecting eggs, look for large, fresh eggs with clean shells. As for the chocolate, choose high-quality dark and white chocolates that have a rich aroma and a glossy finish for superior melting and flavor.

What is the best way to store Peppermint Bark Cookies and how long do they last?
To maintain their delightful texture, store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a container to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge!

Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies for longer enjoyment! Start by placing the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them into an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, layering parchment paper between cookies if needed. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat!

What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
Very often, a dry cookie dough can be fixed easily! If you find that your dough is crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water, a little at a time, until it’s pliable enough to hold together without being sticky. Also, remember that measuring ingredients accurately is key—too much flour can lead to dryness.

Are there any dietary considerations for Peppermint Bark Cookies?
For those with dietary restrictions, there are simple substitutes you can make! Use a flax egg instead of a large egg for a vegan option. For gluten-free cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure the chocolate you choose is dairy-free if you’re avoiding animal products. Always check for allergies, such as a potential reaction to peppermint or chocolate.

Can I use different types of chocolate for coating?
The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate. Milk chocolate will provide a sweeter contrast, while dark chocolate offers a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that melting points vary slightly—be sure to monitor closely to avoid scorching!