Name: Peppermint Bark Cookies That Will Brighten Your Holidays
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dark Chocolate (Substitute with semi-sweet chocolate if desired.); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure; gluten-free flour may alter texture.); 0.75 cup Cocoa Powder (Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper flavor.); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature butter makes creaming easier.); 0.5 cup Light Brown Sugar (Dark brown sugar can be a great alternative.); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances sweetness; no direct substitutions needed.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Sea salt can substitute nicely.); 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.); 0.5 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla is recommended for richer flavor.); 1 large Egg (Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.); 1 cup White Chocolate (White chocolate chips can substitute if needed.); 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil (Neutral oil can also work in a pinch.); 2 large Candy Cane (Crushed peppermint candies can be used alternatively.)

As I pulled the first tray of cookies from the oven, the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and peppermint wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy winter wonderland. These Peppermint Bark Cookies are my go-to festive treat, perfectly blending soft, chewy centers with a delightful crunch of crushed candy canes coated in velvety white chocolate. Whether you’re preparing for holiday gatherings or simply craving a taste of cheer, these cookies are an irresistible choice that takes only 12 minutes to prep. Plus, they make thoughtful gifts for loved ones or a festive addition to your cookie platters. Isn’t it time to make your holiday baking a little sweeter?

Why Choose These Peppermint Bark Cookies?

Convenience: These cookies require just 12 minutes of prep, making them an effortless addition to any holiday baking lineup.

Irresistible Flavor: With the perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, every bite is a celebration of festive flavor.

Versatile Treat: Ideal for cookie platters, holiday parties, or thoughtful gifts, these cookies spread holiday joy wherever they go!

Textural Bliss: Experience a delightful combination of soft, chewy cookie with a smooth white chocolate coating topped with a festive crunch from candy canes.

Experiment Friendly: Feel free to customize with variations like nuts or different chocolate types—make them uniquely yours!

Whip up a batch of these Peppermint Bark Cookies, add them to your holiday gatherings, and watch as they disappear in no time!

Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Dark Chocolate – Adds rich flavor and moisture; substitute with semi-sweet chocolate if desired.
Flour – Provides structure; use all-purpose flour for best results; gluten-free flour may alter texture.
Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate intensity; opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Infuses richness and flavor; room temperature butter makes creaming easier.
Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper flavor; dark brown sugar can be a great alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and helps achieve the right texture; no direct substitutions needed.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sea salt can substitute nicely.
Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These leavening agents help cookies rise; ensure they’re fresh for optimal results.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aroma and depth; pure vanilla is recommended for a richer flavor.
Egg – Binds ingredients together; use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.

For the Coating

White Chocolate – Coating that adds sweetness and creaminess; white chocolate chips can substitute if needed.
Coconut Oil – Helps the white chocolate remain smooth; neutral oil can also work in a pinch.

For Topping

Candy Cane – Provides a festive crunch and minty flavor; crushed peppermint candies can be used alternatively.

These delightful Peppermint Bark Cookies are bursting with flavor and joy, perfect for brightening your holidays!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Peppermint Bark Cookies. While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This step lays the groundwork for even baking and helps achieve that delightful chewy texture we love.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ¾ cup of cocoa powder until well combined. The goal is to incorporate air and ensure there are no lumps. Set this mixture aside for now; it will help give structure and depth to your Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar on medium speed for about 5 minutes. You’ll want the mixture to become light and fluffy, and you’ll notice it turning a pale yellow color. This step is key to achieving a tender cookie.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are fluffy, add one room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 1-2 minutes. This will help bind the ingredients together as you create the batter for your delectable Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour and cocoa powder mixture into the stand mixer with your butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, ensuring a smooth dough forms without overmixing. The cookie dough should be thick and slightly sticky, ready to be scooped onto the prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out 2-tablespoon-sized rounds of cookie dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. Gently flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle on some reserved chopped dark chocolate to elevate the cookie experience before baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake the Peppermint Bark Cookies for 13-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should look slightly underdone with soft centers when you take them out. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Coat with White Chocolate
While the cookies cool, melt 1 cup of white chocolate and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Once melted, dip the cooled cookies halfway into the white chocolate and allow any excess to drip off. This will create a beautiful coating for your festive Peppermint Bark Cookies.

Step 9: Add Candy Cane Topping
While the white chocolate coating is still wet, generously sprinkle crushed candy canes over the dipped portion of each cookie. The candy canes will add a delightful crunch and a festive touch that perfectly complements the chocolate. Let the cookies set on a wire rack until the chocolate has firmed up.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once the white chocolate has completely set, your Peppermint Bark Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! They are perfect for holiday parties, cookie platters, or as lovely gifts for loved ones. Embrace the holiday spirit with each delicious bite of these festive delights.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get playful with these Peppermint Bark Cookies; there are countless ways to customize them to your taste!

Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for that satisfying crunch and a touch of nutty flavor.
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with peppermint or almond extract in your dough for a unique flavor profile. It’s a small change that can have a big impact!
Chocolate Twist: Try swapping dark chocolate for milk or semi-sweet chocolate in your cookie base for a sweeter experience. Each choice opens the door to a different flavor journey.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. While the texture may vary a bit, the delicious flavors will remain intact.
Creative Coating: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate coating for an elegant touch. It’s all about adding layers of flavor and style!
Minty Freshness: Switch out candy canes for crushed peppermint candies for an extra burst of minty goodness.
Cookie Sandwich: Create a delightful cookie sandwich by adding a layer of peppermint-flavored frosting between two cookies. It’s a sweet and festive surprise!
Decadent Filling: Fill your cookies with a dollop of chocolate ganache or a peppermint cream for an indulgent treat. This unexpected filling turns bite-sized bliss into an unforgettable dessert.

For more delightful inspirations, check out these Gluten Free Cookies or indulge in Healthy Carrot Cookies that are sure to please all palates! Don’t hesitate to personalize your baking experience and discover your favorite blend of holiday flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Bark Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—just freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time. For the best quality after freezing, ensure the cookies are sealed in an airtight container once coated with white chocolate. They’ll taste just as delicious, bringing festive cheer to your gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 1 week, but they might lose some softness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Cookie Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop, shape, and wrap tightly; bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Bark Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing; it helps achieve that perfect cookie texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Do not overbake! Cookies should appear slightly underdone when you pull them out for a soft, chewy center.
Use a Kitchen Scale: For accuracy, especially with flour and chocolate; precise measurements yield more consistent results in your Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Cookie Size Consistency: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all your cookies are the same size; this helps them bake evenly for a delightful finish.
Customize the Coating: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or toppings; creativity can lead to unique variations of Peppermint Bark Cookies!

What to Serve with Peppermint Bark Cookies

Bring even more joy to your holiday gatherings by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary treats and drinks.

Hot Cocoa: A classic holiday beverage that perfectly pairs with the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies, warming hearts and hands alike.
Peppermint Milkshake: Blend vanilla ice cream with peppermint extract and milk for a cool, refreshing drink that echoes the minty notes of the cookies.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside warm cookies to create a delightful contrast with the chewy texture and rich flavors.
Almond Biscotti: The crunch of these almond-flavored cookies offers a nice contrast to the soft, chewy texture of the Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the sweetness of the cookies while adding a burst of color to any dessert table.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth and spices in this drink complement the festive flavors of the cookies, creating a cozy treat for chilly evenings.
Buttercream Frosting Dip: A sweet frosting dip invites extra indulgence with a fun, interactive element; guests will love dunking their cookies!
Gingerbread Cookies: Enhance the holiday spirit by incorporating these spiced treats; the flavors contrast beautifully with the minty freshness of the Peppermint Bark Cookies.
Sugar Cookies: A sweet and simple classic, these cookies add to the festive assortment and offer a lovely, soft texture that pairs well with peppermint.
Roasted Nuts: A handful of roasted mixed nuts provides a savory counterpoint, balancing the sweetness while adding crunch and depth to your spread.

Peppermint Bark Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select peppermint candy canes for the topping?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint candy canes, look for ones that are vibrant in color and free from any dark spots, which can indicate staleness. Aim for candy canes that are solid and not overly brittle, as these will crush well but still provide that festive crunch.

How should I store leftover Peppermint Bark Cookies?
You can store your Peppermint Bark Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them to retain moisture. To enhance shelf-life, consider refrigerating them in a sealed container for up to a week, though this may result in a slightly firmer texture.

Can I freeze Peppermint Bark Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your Peppermint Bark Cookies, first let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to label it; they’ll last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your dough seems dry, don’t worry; simply add a tablespoon of milk or water, mixing slowly until fully incorporated. This should give you the soft, pliable dough needed for your delicious cookies. Remember, all ingredients should be at room temperature for better incorporation!

Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Very much so! These Peppermint Bark Cookies contain common allergens such as gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter and chocolate), and eggs. If you’re baking for anyone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter substitutes, and flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes). Always ensure to read labels for any additional ingredients used.

How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent your Peppermint Bark Cookies from spreading, be sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will firm up the butter, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie. Additionally, use a portion scoop to keep the size consistent, which helps with even baking!