This Peppermint Bark Cookies recipe is a delightful combination of holiday cheer and sweet indulgence. The marriage of rich chocolate, crisp peppermint, and buttery cookie dough creates a treat that is both festive and irresistible. Originating from the tradition of peppermint bark candies, these cookies offer a playful twist on a classic favorite.
Origin and Inspiration
The inspiration for these Peppermint Bark Cookies comes from the nostalgic flavors of the winter season. Reminiscent of cozy evenings by the fireplace and the joy of holiday gatherings, these cookies bring a touch of magic to any occasion. With roots in the beloved peppermint bark confection, this recipe takes those familiar flavors and transforms them into a delightful cookie form.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The key ingredients in these cookies are high-quality dark chocolate, refreshing peppermint extract, and crushed candy canes for a burst of minty freshness and a satisfying crunch. The combination of smooth chocolate, cool peppermint, and buttery cookie base creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds with each bite.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures in these cookies, it’s crucial to chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading and ensure a chewy center. Drizzling melted chocolate and sprinkling crushed candy canes on top adds a beautiful finish that enhances both the visual appeal and taste of the cookies. The essence of these cookies lies in the careful balance of sweet, minty, and chocolaty elements.
Peppermint Bark Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season in every bite. With a perfect blend of flavors and textures, these cookies are sure to become a festive favorite for you and your loved ones. Enjoy the magic of the holidays with each delicious cookie!
Peppermint Bark Cookies
Description
These cookies are a festive twist on classic peppermint bark, combining the best of both worlds in a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Peppermint Bark Cookies Ingredients
Instructions
Cookie Dough Preparation
-
Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and peppermint extract, beat until well combined.Creaming the butter and sugar well will ensure a light and tender cookie texture. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.Sifting the dry ingredients prevents clumps and ensures even distribution in the dough. -
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.Chilling the dough helps it firm up for easier handling and prevents spreading during baking.
Baking and Assembling
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Ensuring the oven is properly preheated helps the cookies bake evenly. -
Shape the Cookies
Roll the chilled dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork.Flattening the cookies helps them bake evenly and ensures a nice shape. -
Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.Cooling the cookies on the baking sheet allows them to firm up before moving them. -
Assemble the Peppermint Bark
Melt white chocolate and stir in crushed peppermint candies. Spread this mixture over the cooled cookies and let it set.Crushing the peppermint candies adds a delightful crunch to the bark layer.
Note
- You can use either store-bought peppermint bark or make your own for these cookies.
- Make sure the peppermint bark is finely chopped for even distribution in the cookie dough.
- Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a drop of peppermint extract to the cookie dough.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra festive touch.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.