Peppermint Cookie Bars Recipe

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect festive treat to celebrate the holiday season. Combining the delightful flavors of peppermint and vanilla, these bars are soft, chewy, and have a wonderful buttery richness. Easy to make and even easier to share, they are sure to bring smiles to your friends and family. The crushed peppermint candies sprinkled throughout add a delightful crunch and a pop of color, making these bars as attractive as they are delicious.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 24 bars
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 200
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 90mg

Why Make This Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars offer a festive flavor that perfectly embodies the spirit of the holidays. They are simple to prepare and bake, making them an excellent choice for beginners or those looking for a quick and satisfying dessert. The combination of soft cookie texture with a crunchy peppermint topping makes every bite a treat. Plus, their eye-catching appearance and delightful peppermint aroma will surely impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them.

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Creating Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars is straightforward. You’ll follow a few simple steps that involve mixing, baking, and finishing touches to achieve a delightful holiday dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
• White chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the dough. Set aside.

Step 3: Creaming Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until creamy and light. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, leading to a fluffy texture.

Step 4: Combining Ingredients

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated.

Step 5: Adding Peppermint Crunch

Fold in the crushed peppermint candies, which will add lovely bursts of flavor and texture throughout the bars.

Step 6: Spreading Dough

Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Baking

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of sweet peppermint will fill your kitchen!

Step 8: Cooling

Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares or rectangles.

Step 9: Optional Garnishing

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving. This adds a lovely sweetness and richness that complements the peppermint flavor.

How to Serve Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa for a cozy dessert experience. They are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as a festive treat to share with neighbors.

How to Store Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

• Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best creaming results.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients with the wet just until combined to avoid tough bars.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough seems too soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes before spreading it in the pan.
• Crushed Candy: Use a rolling pin to crush peppermints between two pieces of parchment paper for easy clean-up.

Delicious Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Replace the white chocolate with milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
• Different Extracts: Swap peppermint for almond extract for a delightful cherry or nutty flavor variation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use different candy? Yes! You can substitute crushed candy canes with other candies for variety, such as chocolate chips or M&M’s.
• What if I don’t have parchment paper? You can grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray, but parchment helps with easy removal.
• Can I make these bars gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• How can I make these healthier? You can reduce the sugar slightly or substitute some of the butter with applesauce.
• Can I double this recipe? Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust your baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful way to sweeten your holiday celebrations. Their soft texture, festive flavors, and simple preparation make them a must-try treat. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the magic of baking together. Happy baking!