Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are the perfect festive treat to elevate your holiday baking. With a delightful fusion of rich chocolate ganache and refreshing peppermint, these cookies are ideal for cookie exchanges or as a sweet surprise for gatherings. They are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making them a must-try during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and peppermint creates an irresistible taste that is perfect for the holidays.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as gifts—everyone will love them!
• Impressive Presentation: Topped with colorful sprinkles and chocolate squares, they look as good as they taste.
• Family-Friendly: A fun recipe that encourages family involvement in the kitchen during festive times.

Tools and Preparation

Creating these Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies requires some essential tools to make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy, ensuring a well-mixed dough for your cookies.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for even baking; using parchment paper helps with easy cleanup.

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Ingredients

To whip up a batch of Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies, gather the following 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
• ½ tsp. peppermint extract
• 2 eggs (room temperature)

For the Topping

• ¼ c. red jimmies sprinkles
• 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). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
2. In another bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, powdered sugar, canola oil, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and eggs until creamy.
3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
2. Use a cookie cutter if desired to shape into festive designs.
3. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 4: Prepare Ganache Topping

1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
2. Remove from heat and add dark chocolate; stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Cookies

1. Once cookies have cooled completely, drizzle ganache over each one.
2. Top with mini Ghiradelli Peppermint Bark Squares and sprinkle with red jimmies.

Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

These delectable Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are perfect for any festive occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint twist, they can be served in various delightful ways.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other holiday treats for an inviting dessert table.

Hot Cocoa Pairing

• Serve your cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa. The chocolatey goodness complements the peppermint flavors perfectly.

Dessert Gift Bags

• Package your cookies in cute gift bags with festive ribbons. They make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Spread a thin layer of frosting or ganache between two cookies to create delightful cookie sandwiches.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble cookies over vanilla or peppermint ice cream for a delicious dessert that adds texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

To ensure your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off; this prevents dense cookies.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help cookies maintain their shape.

• Rotate baking sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets to ensure even cooking and browning.

• Cool completely before decorating: Allow cookies to cool fully before adding ganache or sprinkles to avoid melting.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options.

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy drink that complements the minty flavor of the cookies beautifully.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth sweetness of vanilla ice cream balances the intense flavors of the cookies.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fresh fruits or extra cookie pieces into warm chocolate for a fun and interactive dessert experience.

5. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee enhances the chocolate notes while balancing sweetness.

6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy counterpart to the crispness of the sugar cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to perfect results.

• Incorrect measurements: Using the wrong amounts of flour, sugar, or butter can change the texture and taste. Always measure carefully for consistent results.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Allow your butter and eggs to reach room temperature before starting.
• Not chilling the dough: If you skip chilling the dough, cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking them too long can result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they are lightly golden.
• Neglecting to use parchment paper: Skipping this step can lead to cookies sticking to the pan. Always line your baking sheets for easy removal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make sure my cookies are soft?

To ensure soft cookies, avoid overbaking and consider adding a little extra butter or using brown sugar instead of white sugar.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

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

How do I customize my Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts like pecans or walnuts, or include different sprinkles for added color and flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer-lasting freshness.

Can I use food coloring in my cookie dough?

Yes! Adding food coloring can enhance the visual appeal of your cookies—just be careful not to overdo it.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines festive flavors with a fun twist. These cookies are versatile; you can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins. Try making this recipe for your next gathering or simply enjoy them at home!