Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat! This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint in a soft sugar cookie. Perfect for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings, these cookies will impress your friends and family with their unique twist on classic peppermint bark.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and peppermint creates a mouthwatering taste that captures the essence of the holiday season.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up a batch of these cookies without any hassle.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 36 cookies, this recipe is ideal for gifting or sharing at parties and gatherings.
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant red jimmies sprinkles add a pop of color, making these cookies visually appealing for any holiday table.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even as part of a cookie platter.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gathering your tools can make the process smoother. Here’s what you need to get started!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients efficiently and keeping your workspace organized.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a fluffy texture in your dough quickly and easily.
• Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy base for your cookies while ensuring even baking.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cookies, preventing sogginess after baking.

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Ingredients

To make these delectable Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 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 (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• ½ tsp. peppermint extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ c. red jimmies sprinkles

For the Topping

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

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
2. In another bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add canola oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs to the butter mixture; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until fully combined.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop:
1. Portion out dough onto lined baking sheets.
2. Space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 5: Cool & Decorate

Once baked:
1. Allow cookies to cool on sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
2. Meanwhile, heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers; remove from heat.
3. Add dark chocolate to hot cream; stir until smooth.
4. Drizzle chocolate ganache over cooled cookies and top each with mini peppermint bark squares.

Enjoy your festive Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

These delightful Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering. Their festive flavors and appealing presentation make them a great addition to your dessert table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, alternating with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Hot Cocoa Pairing

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for a cozy treat.

Gift Bags

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with festive ribbons to create charming homemade gifts for friends and family.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose peppermint or vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination.

Cookie and Coffee Combo

• Pair the cookies with a nice cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the rich chocolate flavor.

Dessert Bar

• Include these cookies in a holiday dessert bar, along with other treats like brownies, fudge, and cakes for guests to enjoy variety.

How to Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Perfecting your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies can take your baking skills to the next level. Follow these tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately, avoiding dense cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Bake just until the edges are lightly golden; cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Top with Fresh Ingredients: Add crushed peppermint candy or additional sprinkles right after baking for added texture and flavor.

• Store Properly: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

These Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
2. Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy drink that enhances the peppermint flavor of the cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing option that adds brightness and contrast to the richness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone to balance sweetness with savory notes.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
6. Spiced Nuts: The crunchiness and spices from roasted nuts provide an excellent textural contrast.
7. Meringues: Light and airy meringue cookies can create a delightful contrast when served alongside.
8. Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake pairs beautifully with these sweet treats for brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Always measure your flour and sugar accurately. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon and level method for best results.
• Ignoring room temperature: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can cause uneven mixing and affect cookie texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Not chilling the dough: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Choosing the wrong chocolate: Using low-quality chocolate can affect the taste of your ganache. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for richer flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from sticking together.

Reheating Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies.

Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

You can substitute with white chocolate, but it will give a different flavor profile. Dark chocolate complements the peppermint well.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add nuts to Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?

Yes! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can be added for extra crunch and flavor, just remember to adjust the overall sugar if desired.

How long do these cookies last?

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or in the freezer for three months.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies offer a delightful combination of flavors that make them perfect for any holiday gathering or cookie exchange. These cookies are versatile; feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite!