Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a delightful cookie that’s perfect for the holiday season. These cookies not only bring festive cheer but also make a fantastic treat for cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. With their beautiful presentation and delicious taste, they are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a unique taste that captures the essence of the holiday season.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are an excellent choice for cookie swaps or holiday parties, making them great gifts or treats to share.
• Versatile Decoration: The red jimmies sprinkles add a pop of color, making these cookies not just tasty but also visually appealing.
• Decadent Texture: The soft sugar cookie base topped with rich chocolate ganache offers a delightful contrast in textures.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some key tools you will need to create these delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutter (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all your ingredients without worrying about spills.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Baking sheets: A quality baking sheet ensures even cooking, helping your cookies bake perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 5½ c. + 2 tbsp. flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. cream of tartar
• 1 c. (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
• 1¼ c. sugar (+ ¼ c.)
• ¾ c. powdered sugar
• ¾ c. canola oil (could also use vegetable)
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1/4 c. red jimmies sprinkles

For the Ganache Topping

• 1 c. dark chocolate
• 1 c. heavy cream
• 36 mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Squares

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Whisk together until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the canola oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs to the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-size portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Optionally, sprinkle red jimmies on top before baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare Ganache

In a saucepan over low heat, combine dark chocolate and heavy cream; stir continuously until melted and smooth.

Step 9: Assemble Cookies

Once cookies have cooled completely, dip each one into the ganache or drizzle it over the top as desired. Place one mini Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark Square on each cookie while ganache is still warm for decoration.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies! Perfect for any festive occasion!

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any festive gathering. Serve them in a variety of ways to impress your guests and enhance the holiday spirit.

Festive Cookie Platters

• Arrange a colorful assortment of chocolate peppermint bark sugar cookies on a platter with other holiday cookies for a beautiful display.

Hot Cocoa Pairing

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat during chilly days.

Dessert Buffets

• Add the cookies to dessert tables at holiday parties, ensuring they stand out with some festive decorations like seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter.

Gift Wrapping

• Package cookies in decorative tins or boxes for gifts. Include a handwritten note for that personal touch.

How to Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

To achieve cookie perfection, keep these tips in mind while baking.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker, chewier cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This aids in better mixing and creates a smoother dough.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents over-packing and results in lighter cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when they are just set but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Store Properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Pair these scrumptious cookies with side dishes that complement their flavor and add to your holiday spread.

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy drink that enhances the minty flavor of the cookies, perfect for winter evenings.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances out the rich chocolate and peppermint in the cookies, making it a delightful combination.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies and adds color to your table.

4. Cheese Platter: Offer soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese paired with crackers; their creaminess complements the chocolate perfectly.

5. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai create a cozy pairing that enhances the flavor profile of chocolate peppermint bark sugar cookies.

6. Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and saltiness, creating an enjoyable contrast with the sweet flavors of your cookies.

7. Cinnamon Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon provide a sweet yet tart side that pairs well with holiday desserts.

8. Gingerbread Cookies: For extra festive flair, serve alongside traditional gingerbread, creating a classic holiday duo everyone will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough and better texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If your dough is too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes before baking. This prevents spreading and helps maintain shape.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can make cookies dry and dense.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An inconsistent temperature can lead to uneven baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• After freezing, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They will last for up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat; cover with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies that you might find helpful.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate based on your preference.

How do I customize my Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or different extracts to enhance flavor and texture!

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

How long do these cookies last?

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies will stay fresh for about one week in the refrigerator and up to three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile for customization. With their rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing peppermint, they make an ideal treat for any festive occasion. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and personalize it with your favorite mix-ins!

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Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive delight of Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, a perfect treat for the holiday season. These cookies combine the rich flavors of creamy chocolate and refreshing peppermint, creating a delightful experience that is sure to impress friends and family alike. Their beautiful appearance, enhanced by colorful sprinkles, makes them ideal for cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home. With their soft texture and decadent ganache topping, these cookies will become a favorite in your holiday repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5½ cups + 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
• 1¼ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ¾ cup canola oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• 1 cup dark chocolate (for ganache)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
• Red jimmies sprinkles

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in canola oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared sheets; optionally sprinkle red jimmies on top.
7. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Cool before transferring to wire racks.
8. For the ganache: heat dark chocolate and heavy cream over low heat until melted and smooth.
9. Once cookies are cool, dip in ganache or drizzle on top; place a mini peppermint bark square on each while still warm.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg