If you’re craving a festive treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, look no further than this Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe. These bars are buttery, tender, and topped with a glossy layer of melted chocolate adorned with crunchy, crushed peppermint candies. They come together quickly and easily, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a sweet bite with a hint of cool mint. Once you taste these bars, you’ll be hooked on their delightful texture and that irresistible peppermint-chocolate combo.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and appearance. From the basic pantry staples to the festive touches, everything is easy to find and essential for that perfect balance you’ll love.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie bars, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the peppermint.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter: Creates a rich, buttery base that keeps the bars moist and tender.
- 1 large egg yolk: Helps bind the ingredients and adds a lovely richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, lifting all the flavors.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts down to a silky topping that perfectly pairs with peppermint.
- Handful of crushed peppermint candies, holiday M&Ms, or candy canes: Gives that festive crunch and burst of refreshing mint flavor.
How to Make Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cookie bars bake evenly from the moment you slide them in. Next, grease a 13 by 9 inch metal pan and line it with parchment paper. This step is key because it prevents sticking and makes removing the bars for cutting a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt; this dry mix will give your bars that tender yet sturdy texture. Meanwhile, in another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with a hand mixer until the mixture is fluffy—this is absolutely essential for lightness. Then, add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing them in thoroughly. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring just until the dough comes together—it will be slightly crumbly, but that’s perfect.
Step 3: Press and Prep the Dough in the Pan
Transfer your crumbly dough to the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly and pressing it down firmly. Using a fork, poke holes all over the surface of the dough. This step might seem small, but it helps the cookie base bake evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
Step 4: Bake and Add the Chocolate topping
Bake the dough for about 25 to 26 minutes until you see a lovely golden color forming on the crust. Remove the pan and immediately sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the hot surface. Return the pan to the oven just long enough for the chips to melt, about one minute. Then, using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate into an even layer right over the cookie base.
Step 5: Top with Peppermint and Cool
Sprinkle your crushed peppermint candies or holiday M&Ms on top of the warm chocolate layer. This gives your bars that festive crunch and vibrant look. Let the bars cool completely so the chocolate can set firmly—this step is worth the wait because it makes cutting crisp, neat bars so much easier.
How to Serve Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, consider drizzling some white chocolate or crushed candy cane dust over the bars once they’ve set. A small sprinkle of edible glitter or red and green sugar crystals can add a festive sparkle that’s perfect for holiday parties.
Side Dishes
These Peppermint Cookie Bars shine wonderfully alongside a hot cup of cocoa or a peppermint-flavored coffee. The bars are also fantastic when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that’s at once cool and warm.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a holiday-themed platter surrounded by fresh pine sprigs or cranberries. Wrapping individual bars in clear cellophane tied with festive ribbons makes for beautiful gifts or party favors—everyone will want to know your secret Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They maintain their chewy, buttery texture beautifully without drying out, so you can enjoy the peppermint goodness even after the initial excitement.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, freeze them in a sealed container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just allow them to thaw at room temperature—the flavor and texture will be just as delightful as fresh.
Reheating
Although these bars are best eaten at room temperature or chilled, if you prefer, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften the chocolate topping before serving. This gives you a gooey, decadent bite that feels freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use another type of chocolate besides semi-sweet chips?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips can swap in beautifully to suit your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that darker chocolates will intensify the bittersweet contrast against the peppermint.
What if I don’t have peppermint candies or candy canes?
You can substitute with peppermint-flavored baking pieces, crushed peppermint bark, or even simply use holiday-themed colored M&Ms to keep the festive flair and provide texture.
Does the dough need chilling before baking?
This recipe does not require chilling, which saves time. The bars bake perfectly straight from mixing to the oven, making it very convenient for last-minute baking.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, try replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different but still quite enjoyable.
How do I get the bars to cut neatly?
Make sure the bars are completely cooled and the chocolate topping is fully set before cutting. Using a sharp knife warmed under hot water and dried between cuts can help achieve clean edges without crumbling.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a special homemade touch to their dessert table. It’s simple to make, packed with seasonal flavor, and makes everyone smile. Give it a try—you might just find yourself baking these little bars year-round!
