Name: Peppermint Bark Cookies that Bring Holiday Cheer in Every Bite
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups All-Purpose Flour (Measure properly for best results.); ¾ cup Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder (Regular cocoa can be used as a substitute.); ½ teaspoon Baking Soda (A leavening agent.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavors.); ¾ cup Unsalted Butter (Softened to room temperature.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (No direct substitute recommended.); 1 large Egg (Room temperature is best.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Brings depth to flavor.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Chopped or chocolate chips.); 4 ounces White Chocolate (Choose high-quality for best taste.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Softened.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the frosting.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; ½ teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Key for classic peppermint taste.); 2-3 tablespoons Heavy Cream (Adjusts consistency.); ½ cup Candy Canes (Pre-crushed can save time.)

As I watched the first snowflakes fall outside my window, a surge of nostalgia washed over me—memories of holiday baking with my family flooded in. That’s when I knew it was the perfect moment to whip up a batch of Peppermint Bark Cookies. These soft and chewy chocolate treats are not just a delicious indulgence; they’re a festive delight that wraps you in the warm embrace of the season. Packed with rich chocolate chunks and topped with creamy peppermint white chocolate frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, they bring cheer to any cookie platter. Best of all, they are quick to prepare, making them an easy favorite for unexpected guests. Ready to fill your kitchen with the scent of the holidays? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are Peppermint Bark Cookies Essential?

Festive Flavor: These cookies combine rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint, capturing the essence of the holiday season in every bite.

Quick to Prepare: Less time in the kitchen means more time enjoying holiday festivities—whip up a batch in no time!

Chewy Delight: Soft, chewy textures paired with creamy frosting make these cookies irresistibly delightful, perfect for cookie platters or gift-giving.

Versatile Treat: Not just for Christmas! Enjoy these Peppermint Bark Cookies year-round or experiment with different frostings for a twist.

Crowd Pleaser: They’re always a hit at gatherings—watch guests devour them in delight alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa! Try serving them with our Cinnamon Roll Cookies for an extra festive touch.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients

• Sweeten your holiday baking with these festive cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; make sure to measure properly for best results.
Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor; regular cocoa can be used as a substitute if needed.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the flavors throughout the cookie.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough; no direct substitute recommended.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; room temperature is best.
Vanilla Extract – Brings depth to the flavor profile.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Offers a delightful chocolate flavor; feel free to use chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.

For the Frosting

White Chocolate – Essential for the frosting; choose high-quality for the best taste.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a lovely, soft texture.
Peppermint Extract – Key for achieving that classic peppermint taste.
Heavy Cream – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; milk can be swapped for a lighter alternative.

For Garnish

Candy Canes – Add a festive crunch and minty flavor; pre-crushed can save time in preparation.

These Peppermint Bark Cookies will not only dazzle your taste buds but also add a joyful spirit to your holiday festivities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Step 1: Prep Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of Dutch processed cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This mixture forms the foundation of your Peppermint Bark Cookies, so ensure there are no lumps. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, signaling that it’s ready. Next, add in one large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Mix Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the tenderness of the cookies. Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped semi-sweet chocolate, creating a rich dough that balances chocolatey goodness with peppermint flair ready to chill.

Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 days. Chilling helps the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle. While it cools, you can get a head start on preparing your baking sheets and gathering your frosting ingredients.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures your Peppermint Bark Cookies will bake evenly, creating the perfect texture that is slightly chewy, soft in the center, and slightly crisp around the edges.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still appear slightly glossy. This precise timing is key for achieving that delightful chewy texture.

Step 7: Cool Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This brief cooling time helps them firm up while still retaining their soft centers. Afterward, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their textures to settle perfectly.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting by melting 4 ounces of white chocolate until smooth. In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened butter until creamy. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar along with the melted white chocolate, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 9: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie. To finish, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch and an extra crunch. This final step truly elevates your Peppermint Bark Cookies, making them a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies

The holiday season is the perfect time to create warm and inviting memories around the table, with delightful pairings that enhance your sweet treats.

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy texture of hot cocoa complements the chocolatey flavors of the cookies, making every sip feel like a warm hug. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for a flavorful twist!
Peppermint Tea: This aromatic beverage enhances the peppermint flavor in the cookies, offering a soothing and refreshing balance that’s simply delightful for cozy gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies, adding an indulgent creaminess that melts into chocolatey goodness.
Fruit Platter: A fresh platter of seasonal fruits such as pomegranates, oranges, and apples introduces a crisp texture and bright flavors that beautifully contrast with the sweet richness of the cookies.
Chai Latte: The spiced warmth of chai deeply complements the festive flavors of peppermint, creating a fragrant and cozy experience perfect for holiday cheer.
Chocolate Milk: Offering a nostalgic touch, this classic drink’s creamy richness marries wonderfully with the chewy texture of the cookies, making for a delightful treat for children and adults alike.
Gingerbread Cookies: Create a festive cookie platter by serving these with spicy gingerbread cookies, as the warm spices beautifully harmonize with peppermint flavors, sharing the seasonal spirit.
Mulled Wine: For adult gatherings, the spiced warmth of mulled wine elevates the experience, offering a deliciously cozy pairing that’s perfect for winter festivities.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over your cookies for an added layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate and peppermint notes—decadent and irresistible!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it tightly covered until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can make the white chocolate frosting up to 24 hours ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—just give it a quick mix before spreading. This allows the cookies to retain their soft, chewy texture while saving you precious time during the busy holiday season. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply scoop and bake the chilled dough, frost when cooled, and watch everyone delight in these festive treats!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, store in the fridge for up to a week; however, this may change their texture slightly.

Freezer: Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Dough Freezing: Unbaked cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Shape into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these Peppermint Bark Cookies your own with delightful twists and tasty substitutions!

Frosting Alternatives: Instead of peppermint white chocolate, try a creamy vanilla buttercream or tangy cream cheese frosting for a lovely change.
Flavor Swaps: For a festive twist, infuse these cookies with flavors like caramel or mocha to surprise your taste buds.
Chocolate Substitutions: Opt for dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor, or add some white or milk chocolate bits for a touch of sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of the cookies.
Candy Cane Boost: Mix in crushed candy canes right into the dough for a peppermint-infused surprise in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or even cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a warm, spicy undertone.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out the butter for a plant-based vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious vegan version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies safe for those avoiding gluten.

These variations will keep your holiday baking exciting! If you’re in the mood for more cookie inspiration, try our Peanut Butter Cookies for a nutty alternative or enjoy the flavors of our Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a festive twist. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they may seem underbaked but will firm up while cooling, ensuring a chewy texture.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs to help achieve the perfect dough consistency for your Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Melting Chocolate: Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to melt white chocolate; this prevents burning and keeps it smooth for frosting.
Adjusting Peppermint Flavor: Start with a smaller amount of peppermint extract in your frosting, adding more as needed. This helps avoid overwhelming mintiness.
Cookie Scooping: Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, ensuring even baking and that all your Peppermint Bark Cookies look just as delightful!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, opt for pure extract over imitation for the best flavor. Look for brands that list real peppermint oil as an ingredient, which contributes a more authentic and robust flavor profile. If you want to experiment, start with a smaller amount, taste-testing as you go to find the perfect balance for your frosting.

How should I store my Peppermint Bark Cookies?
To keep your Peppermint Bark Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, they can also be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, but this may slightly alter their texture, making them less soft and chewy.

Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze baked Peppermint Bark Cookies for up to 2 months. I suggest wrapping each cookie in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe bag for the best results. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature! If you’re freezing the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a bag and they can be baked from frozen—add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you notice your cookies spreading excessively, it often means your dough was not chilled long enough. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least an hour, but don’t hesitate to chill it longer if necessary. Also, ensure your baking sheet is properly prepped with parchment paper, as this can help with spreading during baking.

Are Peppermint Bark Cookies safe for pets?
No, unfortunately, peppermint extract can be harmful to pets, especially dogs and cats, as it can cause gastrointestinal upset. It’s best to keep these festive treats away from your furry friends. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re uncertain about certain ingredients and their safety for pets.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check your other ingredients; some may contain gluten, so always read labels carefully. Enjoy the deliciousness without the gluten, as these cookies can still turn out soft and chewy with the right blend!