Description
Delight in these festive Peppermint Bark Cookies featuring a rich, chocolaty base with a generous topping of creamy peppermint bark. Perfectly soft yet slightly crisp cookies with a refreshing burst of peppermint make these treats ideal for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a sweet, minty indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Peppermint Bark Topping
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or almond bark
- 1 tablespoon crushed peppermint candy
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully combined. Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt until a cohesive dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Bake the Cookies: Divide the dough into six equal balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Peppermint Bark: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips or almond bark along with the softened butter, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in powdered sugar one cup at a time, alternating with milk until you reach a thick but spreadable consistency. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts to infuse the peppermint flavor.
- Assemble the Cookies: Spread an even layer of the peppermint bark mixture onto the cooled cookies. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy evenly over the top. Allow the topping to set and firm up before serving, about 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature. Enjoy your festive peppermint bark cookies!
Notes
- Ensure the cookies are completely cool before adding the peppermint bark topping to avoid melting.
- You can substitute crushed candy canes for the peppermint candy for extra crunch.
- For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter and white chocolate alternatives.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to balance the mint flavor to your preference.
