Created on December 4th, 2025 at 01:05 pm
A festive delight to warm your winter
These Peppermint Bark Cookies bring together the comforting flavors of buttery cookies, rich chocolate, and festive peppermint in one delightful package. With each bite, you experience the balance of a soft, chewy cookie topped with a luscious layer of melted chocolate and a sprinkling of crushed peppermint. Their inviting aroma of vanilla and melted chocolate fills your kitchen, instantly enveloping you in the spirit of the holidays. These cookies are not only visually appealing with their festive colors but also delightful in texture, offering a satisfying crunch from the peppermint bits.
What makes these cookies truly special is their versatility. They can be enjoyed at holiday gatherings, packaged as thoughtful gifts, or savored with a cup of hot cocoa on a cold evening. Each cookie is a treat, making them perfect for festive occasions or simply to brighten a cozy day at home. The blend of flavors creates a celebration in every bite, making these cookies a festive tradition worth repeating.
Why These Cookies Shine
These Peppermint Bark Cookies stand out for their delightful combination of flavors and textures. The soft cookie base provides a sturdy foundation for the rich, velvety chocolate, while the crushed peppermint adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweet warmth. The cookies are easy to make, requiring only a few staple ingredients, yet their flavor feels indulgent. The mixture of sweet chocolate and cooling peppermint creates a pleasing contrast, awakening the palate and offering a sensory delight.
They are perfect for sharing with friends and family, whether at holiday parties or as a sweet gesture during the season. These cookies also store well, maintaining their flavor and texture, making them easy to prepare ahead of time. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or a few days later; they are a delicious and cozy reminder of the joys of the season.
Time Breakdown
This recipe comes together quickly, perfect for those busy holiday days. Most of the time is spent on simple preparation and hands-off waiting while the cookies cool and the chocolate sets.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies
- Optional: extra crushed peppermint for garnish
Kitchen Tools
This recipe requires minimal equipment, ensuring that baking remains stress-free. Gather the following tools, which you likely have on hand.
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rubber spatula
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat these together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will take about 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue to mix until fully combined and smooth. The addition of eggs will bring richness to the cookies.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint, creating a deliciously textured dough. The chocolate chips will melt as they bake, adding richness.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Once the cookies are out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint over the warm cookies. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate chips in place of semi-sweet.
- Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the step of cooling the cookies on a wire rack; this helps them maintain a chewy texture.
- These cookies can also be frozen for up to three months, making them ideal for preparing in advance.
A Treat for All Occasions
Crafting these Peppermint Bark Cookies during the holiday season brings joy and warmth to both the baker and the enjoyer. They embody the spirit of togetherness, evoking memories of shared treats and celebrations. With a perfect balance of flavor, ease, and festivity, these cookies are a delightful way to share sweetness with family and friends. Whether enjoyed warm or stored for later, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite for years to come.
What to Serve With Peppermint Bark Cookies
These Peppermint Bark Cookies shine with a warmth that pairs beautifully with a variety of drinks and desserts. For a classic accompaniment, serve them alongside a rich cup of hot chocolate. The smooth, creamy chocolate balances the crispness of the peppermint and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Alternatively, consider a warm cup of tea, such as peppermint or chamomile, to complement the cookie’s festive notes. The gentle floral and minty flavors create a soothing pairing, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
For those looking for a more adventurous pairing, serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream enhances the chocolate and peppermint elements, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Peppermint Bark Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs Bring to room temperature for better mixing.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips For a richer flavor, you can use bittersweet chocolate.
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies Reserve some for garnish.
- Optional: extra crushed peppermint for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint.
Baking
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint over the warm cookies. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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